Loomis Basin Veterinary Clinic Goes Green

Reducing our impact on the environment is everyone's responsibility and our business is no exception. In an effort to do our part to save energy and natural resources, Loomis Basin Veterinary Clinic has instituted many "green" improvements to how our practice operates.

Our most important green initiative was launched in 2005 with the installation of 480 solar modules providing 100,000 watts of photovoltaic-generated electricity. This system significantly decreased our clinic's reliance on electricity created by the use of fossil fuels and we are able to generate 30% of our annual power needs on-site. By choosing renewable energy, we continue to further our commitment to protecting the environment while simultaneously addressing climate change.

More recently, in 2009, we ambitiously embarked on the process of changing our record-keeping system from paper-based to electronic medical records (EMR). This was no small feat, given the number and variety of services we offer, clients we serve, and the doctors and support staff we have. This project went live in October 2010, and we now document all visits to the clinic in the computer. Obviously, the reduction in paper use is a huge benefit and, along with our use of solar, is a part of our commitment to the green movement.

At Loomis Basin, we are making every effort to be good stewards of our planet's natural resources, good neighbors in our community, and more responsible to the people and animals we care so much about.

Our Environmentally Friendly Business Practices

We exemplify our commitment to being environmentally friendly in many ways, including our building specifications, use of technology, community involvement, and recycling programs.

Building

• Purchase nonpotable stream water for landscaping purposes to conserve potable water sources since 1978
• Installed 7,000 square feet of solar panels in 2005 on seven different roof surfaces
  • The solar system has the capacity to generate 100 KW hours of electricity per year, given optimal conditions. We estimate it provides 30% of our annual electrical needs.
• Completed an extensive pond and stream restoration project in conjunction with our residential neighbor in 2007
  • This project was necessary to improve flood control and the nonpotable water supply
  • It also enhanced habitat for migratory birds and fish
• Incorporated the following green-friendly measures in our administrative office expansion in 2006
  • Two water-efficient dishwashers installed in the staff lounge allow coffee mugs, plates, and utensils to be reused, reducing our consumption of paper and plastic products
  • Repurposed the clinic's original barn doors for our conference table and stall doors as decorative features
  • Installed low-flow toilets in restrooms to improve water usage efficiency
  • Installed tankless water heater to provide hot water on demand, only heating hot water that is needed
• Installed window tinting on all south-facing windows at the clinic in 2008 to reduce energy usage
• Participate in PG&E's fluorescent lighting upgrade program to high efficiency lamps and ballasts since 2008
• Participate in PG&E's HVAC efficiency program to change filters and clean and test condensers since 2010

Technology

• Digital X-rays since 2004
• CDs of digital X-rays for clients and referring veterinarians since 2006
• Digital signature pads for invoice charging introduced in 2010
• Added computers to each of our 10 exam rooms and additional computers throughout hospital in 2010
• Launched Electronic Medical Records in October 2010

Community

• Adopt-a-Highway Program since 1997
• Client newsletter printed on recycled paper since 2007
• Email client newsletter to 8,000 clients since 2009, reducing printed copies by more than 50%

Recycling

• Use Shred It program on a bi-weekly basis since 2003
  • Saved 49 trees from destruction in 2010
  • Saved a total of 270 trees in 7 years
• Dedicated cardboard recycling dumpster on site
• Participate in local E Waste drop offs for outdated electronic equipment recycling
• Routinely recycle paper, aluminum cans, and plastic bottles

Loomis Basin is committed to doing our part to help the environment.