New Study Ranks Environmental Impact of World’s Countries

Chicago, IL, May 29, 2010 --(PR.com)-- A new study conducted by the University of Adelaide (Australia), Princeton University, and the National University of Singapore has ranked the world's countries according to their negative impact on the environment.*

The research involves 228 countries and is based on seven indicators of environmental degradation: natural forest loss, habitat conversion, marine life, fertilizer use, water pollution, carbon emissions, and species threats.

Based on the study, the countries with what was termed “the most absolute environmental impact” are (from worst negative impact):

1. Brazil
2. United States
3. China
4. Indonesia
5. Japan
6. Mexico
7. India
8. Russia
9. Australia
10. Peru

“The study also found that the wealthier the country, based on gross national income, the more likely they are to be an [environmental] offender,” says Cynthia Schultz, COO of Sustainable Dashboard Tools, LLC, (http://www.green2sustainable.com/) a Web-based tool that helps users reduce waste, become more sustainable, and cut costs.

Schultz adds that the big concern is that there is now considerable evidence that “the negative environmental impact of these and [many] other countries is resulting in a loss of habitats and species, which is compromising ecosystems that support the quality of human life of people all over the world.”

She concludes that “we must view sustainability as a win for the planet, a win for countries around the world, and a win for cost savings as well.”

*Source: “Evaluating the Relative Environmental Impact of Countries,” May 3, 2010; published in PLoS ONE, a peer-reviewed scientific and medical research publication.

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Stephen Ashkin is available for interviews, presentations, and commentary on Green Cleaning–related issues, sustainable buildings, industry trends, and facility management. He can be reached by calling 812-332-7950.

About Sustainability Dashboard Tools, LLC
Sustainability Dashboard Tools, LLC, has created new software technology designed specifically for cleaning professionals. The company’s CEO is Stephen Ashkin, President of The Ashkin Group and Executive Director of the Green Cleaning Network; its COO is Cynthia Schultz.

Sustainability Dashboard Tools' software allows users to measure the natural resources their businesses use and the greenhouse gas emissions they generate. Armed with this information, businesses can make commonsense changes that reduce their impact on the environment. Such changes save businesses money and make them more efficient and competitive while also benefiting their facilities, employees, and local community as well as the environment.

Contact Information:
Web site: http://www.green2sustainable.com/

Stephen Ashkin
Chief Executive Officer
Phone: 812-332-7950
E-mail: SteveAshkin@green2sustainable.com

Cynthia Schultz
Chief Operating Officer
Phone: 812-345-4353
E-mail: cschultz@green2sustainable.com