Dear Friends:

It seems that you cannot read a newspaper or turn on the television without hearing something about the green movement. This term represents many different causes: some that I personally support and some that I find a little over the top. I am most intrigued by green efforts suggesting how to run our businesses and live our personal lives in more environmentally sensitive ways.

Our companies do much to improve our environment by planting trees and other foliage. We recycle yard waste and office products, compost leaves, clippings and organic material, and use energy-saving light bulbs, which turn lights off automatically. However, we also create a certain amount of pollution through the fuel we burn and noise we create. I see the green movement as an opportunity to be a leader in embracing positive change. Now, more than ever, I am focused on making a contribution to the environment while taking a proactive stance in eliminating and minimizing pollution and the waste of energy.

One way in which Mariani will contribute to the environment is through the installation of green roofs. Based largely on the efforts of Mayor Richard M. Daley, green roofs are becoming increasingly popular. Our goal is to become adept at the design, building and maintenance of a completely living, sustainable roof.

My early career as a landscaper for my father points to another way to become greener: reducing the use of fuel-burning equipment. Back in those days we used gas-powered lawn mowers but trimmed hedges and swept clippings with hand tools. It took more time, yet was quiet and resulted in less pollution. While today we use the most fuel-efficient technologies available, the equipment still uses unclean energy, emits pollution and creates noise.

Another avenue is a sustainable approach to landscape design and construction. Can we design and build a landscape that looks fabulous and requires less artificial care? The result would be landscapes that work within their natural surroundings and use less water, less fertilizer, less chemicals and require less maintenance. We as a company have a responsibility to enhance our products and services to affect change.

Finally, I am pleased to announce my wife, Sherri Mariani, has taken the role of environmental advocate for Mariani Landscape, Mariani Nursery, and Hampshire Farms. Sherri has been passionate about the environment for a long time, and I am proud she is taking this new position. Her first step is to organize a green team made up of our associates to promote our new green endeavor. Our hope as a company is to make a positive difference on the environment.

Frank Mariani, CEO

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