In an age of global warming and high gas prices, is it any wonder that going green is an urgent proposition? For Gary Federico, president of Sacramento, Calif.-based Federico Beauty Institute, eco-friendly initiatives have long been a top priority. Federico, head of the third-generation, family-owned and operated beauty school, has brought the same commitment to going green that he brings to education: a belief that he can make a difference.
Federico, who was recently awarded a clean air business award by Breathe California of Sacramento-Emigrant Trails for his environmentally sound practices, continues to deploy smart, energy-efficient programs. In an industry not yet known for reducing its carbon footprint, Federico is setting an example by purchasing and promoting clean energy and reducing energy usage.
“It’s not just about hair or skin care, but also about giving back,” says Federico, who has installed a photovoltaic carport system, changed lighting to energy-saving Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs), and installed occupancy sensors which automatically shut down unused air conditioning and lights. “In the world of small business, this is something very unique, because very few businesses have gone in this direction,” says Federico. “But for me, it was an awakening process, of not just reducing my energy costs, but also setting an example for my students.” In the use of solar power alone, Federico Beauty Institute is annually reducing C02 emissions by 165,643 pounds, or the equivalent of 14 passenger cars from the roadways.
At this premiere beauty institute, which was founded 60 years ago and sets the highest standard for educating cosmetology and esthetic students, Federico also has implemented a full recycle program for paper and plastics. This includes a battery drop-off site for safe disposal of this hazardous waste, which is available to students as well as clients of the school’s beauty services clinic. Ceiling fans dispel heat and reduce energy, and a building energy management program controls utilities. “I use the analogy that if you want to plant an orchard, you have to take care of it in order to harvest the fruit,” says Federico. “If you take care of your business the right way, it will take care of you.”
About Federico Beauty Institute
Since 1946, Federico has been committed to the highest standards in the beauty industry. This premiere accredited educational facility for cosmetology and esthetics in the Sacramento area includes a state-of-the-art salon/spa and school with theory and practice rooms, café, and beauty boutique. Federico is dedicated to providing progressive, quality education while promoting individual creative expression. Visit www.federico.edu or call (916) 929-4242, extension 212.
Effective Student Marketing, Inc.
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