“Going Green” once meant donning shamrock shirts on March 17 to help Irish friends celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Now, those words have new meaning. Saving resources is essential for the financial well-being of a company and the health of the planet. Recycle, reuse, and rejoice are words to live by.

Housing Authority Insurance Group’s Small Business Unit (SBU) – comprised of Judy Tripp, Robert Stanczykiewicz, Jane Renauld, Jeanne Aransky, and Carmen MacArthur – answered the call to waste less and want not when it began issuing paperless renewals in August.

The SBU, which handles members with 250 adjusted units or less, is electronically forwarding letters prior to renewals that detail the advantages. For SBU members, renewals are automatic and policies are delivered electronically. Members get the same customer service with lower costs and fewer hassles.

At the same time, HAI Group’s costs are reduced significantly. It’s a true win-win.

“This definitely streamlined the process,” SBU Manager Judy Tripp said. “Since we do not send out renewal quotes prior to policy issuance, it has made a positive impact on staff productivity and member services.”

So far, response to the program has been encouraging. The required signed renewal forms are being returned at an excellent pace. Best of all, it has lowered costs and saved countless trees.

These days, “Going Green” is not being Irish for a day; it’s being conscientious for a lifetime.