The global business mindset is evolving and some of the most dominating businesses in the world are making this shift into the era of green. Global giants like Dupont, 3M, Herman Miller, BP, Hewlett-Packard, FedEx Kinko's and many more, are making the conscious effort to change up their practices and it's paying off more than they could ever imagine. This is not entirely about climate change—it's about innovation. And innovation breeds efficiency, and if implemented correctly, it will equal profits.

A great example of a company asking what they can do to save money while creating a better working environment for their employees is furniture maker Herman Miller. Fifteen years ago it sent 41 million pounds of waste to landfills. Today, it's just over three million pounds. Aggressive recycling and waste reduction efforts have saved the company over $1 million each year. Innovation, cost-savings, plus helps the environment. It all starts with a new way of thinking. Companies that do not add environmental thinking to their strategy arsenal risk missing upside opportunities in markets.

Another reason to go green is the shift in the younger generation of students who are demanding a healthy, clean and eco-conscious company. According to a Stanford Business School study, students said they are willing to forego up to 14% of their salaries to land a job with a company that had the right values. There's cost-savings right there.

Companies are also finding values in going green, including increased sales, quality, the ability to attract and retain talent and customers, and have better reputations. This is a win-win-win situation. Going green is not expensive and the long-term effects as far as increased productivity, loyalty and your company's marketability will pay off ten-fold.