Issue: Physical Case Files

Solution:

• Developed a robust electronic case-management system, which, as well as allowing for enhanced administrative services for staff, parties, and arbitrators eliminates physical case files

Issue: Paper Exhibits

Solution:

• Launched an electronic-hearing exhibit space integrated with our online case- management system that facilitates the virtual exchange of party exhibits at hearings and eliminates the need for paper copies

Issue: Fax Machines / Paper

Solution:

• Converted to electronic fax services, eliminating the need for physical fax machines and paper

Issue: Conserving Paper / Printing; Energy Due to Travel

Solution:

• Encourage the use of technology to conduct arbitrations to minimize the use of paper, printing, and travel if applicable
• Encourage the use of electronic means to serve documents as permitted in the arbitration rules 
• Transitioned to the primary use of digital vs. paper marketing materials

Issue: Paper Waste

Solution: 

• Provide recycling bins in all of offices, conference rooms, and communal kitchens; engage third parties to shred and recycle paper at our various locations

Issue: Machine Waste

Solution: 

• Work with third parties to collect and recycle hardware and equipment, such as laptops, monitors, computers, and other IT hardware;
• Donate equipment, such as desktop computers, to not-for-profits, for example, Computers for Causes

Issue: Environment-Friendly Paper

Solution: 

• At least 30%-recycled copy paper to be used by November 2021; 100%-recycled by January 2023
• Paper cups in offices with countertop-cup dispensers sourced from 90% plant-based renewable resources 

Issue: Bottle Recycling

Solution: 

• Reusable water bottles or water dispensers utilized in most office locations

Issue: Travel-Related Energy Expenditure

Solution:

• Comprehensive technology solutions available for the effective conduct of virtual hearings, reducing the need for travel or in person hearings
• Documents-only arbitration offered as an alternative to in-person hearings
• Virtual events, education programs, and training increased
• Staff encouraged to use alternative technology, such as videoconference, instead of travel 
• Exploring hybrid work models enabling certain staff to work from home on a limited basis 
• Pre-tax Mass Transit benefit offered to encourage the use of mass transit, in turn lessening emissions, contributing to better air quality, and reducing energy consumption

Issue: Building-Related Energy Consumption

Solution: 

• Both Data Centers and six offices in LEED-certified buildings 
• Goal to make LEED certification a consideration when looking for new office space
• Movement-triggered lighting utilized in the majority of offices 

Issue: Office Equipment-Related Energy Consumption

Solution:

• Energy Star-certified laptops and printers and environmentally friendly ink toner utilized
• Energy-saver modes used by staff on computers and other equipment

Issue: Education-Related Efforts

Solution: 

• National Roster of Arbitrators required to be knowledgeable regarding the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology to help limit the need for in-person hearings in many cases