Bloomberg Becomes First Media Company To Go WindMade

The media giant, Bloomberg, has good reason to brag about being sustainable. It is the first news organization in the world to obtain WindMade label certification. Launched in November 2011 by the wind turbine maker, Vestas, the WindMade label is backed by the UN Global Compact and conservation group, World Wildlife Federation (WWF). WindMade requires participating companies to obtain at least 25 percent of their electricity from wind power. Bloomberg went far beyond that as the company's U.S. operations obtain 58 percent of the electricity used from wind. In addition, Bloomberg obtains 25 percent of its power from biomass.

WindMade describes itself as a "global consumer label for companies that use wind energy." The label includes other well-known companies and organizations including Lego, PwC and the Global Wind Energy Council. For Bloomberg to obtain WindMade certification is a major coup given that the news organization has over 15,000 employees in 192 places globally.

In a blog post, Bloomberg states:

"We’ve worked hard to reduce carbon, help set standards, buy renewable products and services and encourage disclosure and promotion of clean technologies…Not only does the label demonstrate our commitment to renewable energy, it provides consumers with the choice to favor companies and products using wind power."

Bloomberg's Global Head of Sustainability, Curtis Ravenel said in a statement that obtaining the WindMade label demonstrates the company's commitment to renewable energy, and "provides consumers with the choice to favor companies and products using wind power."

Ravenel added, "As both a Founding Partner and the Official Data Provider for WindMade, receiving the WindMade Certification for our operations was the logical next step for us to show our commitment to this very important standard."

"We are delighted for Bloomberg. By committing to renewable energy and using the WindMade label, Bloomberg has set a great example that will inspire companies and consumers all over the world," said Henrik Kuffner, CEO of WindMade.

The Danish hearing aid maker Widex became the first company to receive WindMade certification in May. Widex' global headquarters in Denmark obtains 95 percent of its power needs from a wind turbine located on its campus.

"By completely eliminating the use of fossil fuels, we believe that we have created the best possible foundation for the future – both for our company and for society," said  Richard Tøpholm, Manager at Widex and board member.

Photo: Flickr user, SustainableDevelopment