Green Business Council

Check Out This Webinar On Green Business Thursday, Sep 23, noon-1:30

2010-09-15T16:11:00.000-05:00

Thursday, September 23, 2010 at 12 – 1:30 PM CDT (1 - 2:30 PM ET): Greening Your Business.
A number of prominent corporations and small businesses, driven by consumer awareness and environmental realities, are embracing the business value of going green. These firms realize that business success today means not just a healthy bottom line, but a healthy triple bottom line that takes financial, social, and environ-mental performance into consideration— the essence of sustainability. The speakers will share information on tools and successes for business to reach their goals for sustainability.
To register, visit https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/138732313

Pew Study Finds Clean Energy Economy Poised For Growth

2010-08-23T10:05:00.001-05:00

A recent study by The Pew Charitable Trusts, "The Clean Energy Economy:Repowering Jobs, Businesses and Investments Across America," found that the clean energy economy has tremendous potential for growth. In part, this will be spurred by investments from both the government and private sector, as well as state and federal policy makers who are increasingly calling for reforms to drive economic renewal and sustain the environment. Pew's research indicates that public policies "have great potential because they create significant incentives for both the private and public sectors to develop new technologies, infrastructure and processes for clean energy, efficiency and conservation." For the purpose of this study, Pew defines a clean energy economy as one which "generates jobs, businesses and investments while expanding clean energy production, increasing energy efficiency, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, waste and pollution, and conserving water and other natural resources." The clean energy economy cuts across five categories: * Clean Energy; * Energy Efficiency; * Environmentally Friendly Production; * Conservation and Pollution Mitigation; and, * Training and Support. The data show that by 2007, more than 68,200 businesses across all 50 states and the District of Columbia accounted for 770,000 jobs that achieve the double bottom line of economic growth and environmental sustainability. The research also shows that between 1998 and 2007, clean energy economy jobs, i.e., a mix of white- and blue-collar positions, from scientists and engineers to electricians, machinists and teachers, grew by 9.1 percent, while total jobs grew by only 3.7 percent. Sixty-five percent of today's clean energy economy jobs fall into the category of Conservation and Pollution Mitigation. However, almost 80 percent of venture capital investments in 2008 were in the sectors of Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency. The flow of venture capital indicates which sectors are the most attractive to investors and have the greatest growth potential. The 61-page report may be read at:http://www.pewcenteronthestates.org/uploadedfiles/clean_economy_report_web.pdf. State fact sheets:http://www.pewcenteronthestates.org/uploadedFiles/wwwpewcenteronthestatesorg/Fact_Sheets/Clean_Economy_AllFactsheets.pdf
IA: p. 16 "Iowa has a small but fast-growing piece of America's clean energy economy.The Hawkeye State's jobs in the clean energy economy grew from just more than 6,000 in 1998 to more than 7,700 in 2007, a much faster growth rate than that of the state's total jobs."
KS: p. 17 "While Kansas has a small piece of America's clean energy economy, its jobs in this sector are growing at one of the fastest rates in the country—and much faster than its total jobs."
MO: p. 26 "Missouri has a small but growing piece of America's clean energy economy. Jobs in its clean energy economy grew more quickly than total jobs in the state between 1998 and 2007."
NE: p. 28 "Nebraska has a small but fast-growing piece of the clean energy economy. It is one of seven states and the District of Columbia where total jobs declined but jobs in the clean energy economy increased between 1998 and 2007."
Additional information is available at: http://www.pewcenteronthestates.org/news_room_detail.aspx?id=52696

WasteWise Re-TRAC Tool Gets Attention at the Summit

2010-05-27T10:01:00.000-05:00

While at the Environmental Partnership Summit http://www.environmentalsummit.org/ I learned of Re-TRAC, http://ow.ly/1QAI9 "a data management and reporting system to track your organization's waste generation and reduction activities and is free to WasteWise partners. Regardless of the number of facilities you have, WasteWise Re-TRAC enables you to track and standardize waste management data for your entire operation."

I'd love to know who is using it and how it is working for you.

Harvard Business Review: The Sustainability Imperative = Today's Megatrend

2010-05-20T10:10:00.001-05:00

HBR says the Sustainability Imperative qualifies as a business megatrend http://ow.ly/1NF28
Businesses ignore it at their peril.

May 26, 2010 Green Business Council Meeting

2010-05-17T10:50:00.002-05:00

Location: Paypal Campus at 7700 East Port Grace Blvd, La Vista, NE 68128; 4pm

Paypal has been making great green strides as of late. At an organizational level, they have a corporate objective with eBay to reduce their carbon footprint by 12% by 2010 while still expanding their operations. Locally, they have 535 employees enrolled in the Omaha Green Team at the PayPal Omaha campus. All of this activity and focus and resulted in several global initiatives focused on renewable energy (installing one of the first fuel cells in Silicon Valley), green roofs, energy efficiency retrofits of facilities, recycling, community gardening, etc. etc.

Needless to say, there's is a lot going on at Paypal and we at the Green Business Council thought it might be a great opportunity to hear what they've been up to, where they've succeeded, what obstacles they've overcome and how it might relate to your organization.

We'll also be updating you on how the Green Business Certification beta testing is coming along, what's new with the GOC's 'Bridging the Gap between Earth Day and World Environment Day initiative, and all other things green in Omaha. The GBC meeting will be followed by an optional tour of the Paypal facility to see some of the things discussed during the meeting.

Latest Version of the Green Products Compilation is Now Available on FedCenter

2010-04-07T10:08:00.000-05:00

Version 5 of OFEE's green products compilation spreadsheets is now available on the FedCenter web site at http://ow.ly/1vBmbThis version includes updates to the Building Construction and Miscellaneous spreadsheets. In the first quarter of 2010, FEMP published revised standards for commercial clothes washers and small motors, and the effective dates have been added to the product listings in the respective spreadsheets. Contact: Dana Arnold, Senior Program Manager, Office of the Federal Environmental Executive, arnold.dana@ofee.gov

Kristi Wamstad Evans speaking at March 24 GBC meeting

2010-03-24T11:13:00.001-05:00

Kristi Wamstad-Evans, the City of Omaha's first Sustainability Coordinator, will update the GBC at the Wednesday, March 24 meeting.
3:30 start time at the Whole Foods 10020 Regency Circle, in the education room by the coffee bar.

GreenerByways Program in Nebraska offers certificate and Mar 31 webinar for tourism industry!

2010-03-19T09:33:00.000-05:00

Who knew about the Greener Byways Program? What looks to be a good initial effort is available for many Nebraska businesses tied to the travel industry. Tourism is the third largest industry in Nebraska. The certificate is available to destinations and all hospitality services. The Greener Byways certificate http://ow.ly/1osOw is in place, offering an on-line sign-up form that I presume is reviewed and evaluated prior to receiving the certificate, window cling, press release form, and informational booklet. Participation in the program is free and voluntary. I can't tell from the site if this is a self-certification only, or if there is some review of the reporting mechanism. Or a public reporting of the score. It looks like a great start! There's also a facebook page, http://ow.ly/1oti8

The March 31 webinar appears to be more geared to answer "Why?" and provide benefits from a couple of green facilities. I wonder how they have scored on the certification? From their description of the webinar:

"Wondering whether green is the way to go for your business? Find out how organizations within Nebraska's tourism industry have taken advantage of environmentally friendly practices during our free webinar, "Green Matters: How going green can benefit your business." Listen as representatives from Ponca State Park and the Arbor Day Foundation discuss why they chose to go green and how it has affected their bottom lines. You'll also get a chance to ask questions and get firsthand advice from these industry experts
Wednesday, March 31 | 2 p.m. CST."

Green Business Council Beta Tests Certification Program

2010-03-02T15:53:00.002-06:00

The GOC’s Green Business Council (GBC) has developed the Green Business Certification program for local businesses and nonprofit organizations. Following current beta testing, the program should be complete and ready for any business this spring.

To become green certified by the GBC, businesses must self-certify that the company is conducting certain basic environmental practices that help reduce their environmental impacts. Participants must report progress annually and strive to improve their environmental performances over time. Businesses are encouraged to develop environmental programs and goals that create accountability for progress and achievement.

There is no fee for the program, but the organization should be a GOC member.

Rick Yoder, co-chair of the GBC and director of P2RIC, the Pollution Prevention Regional Information Center, explained the reasons a business should consider certifying.
 
“They would want to certify to find that market niche that’s green and then serve that market,” he said. “The program allows a business to show that it’s not just stating that it’s green, but that there is a group of people locally that can say it is green and why. It’s not saying it’s the greenest business in the world, but that the business has taken steps, is showing transparency and is following steps to address environmental concerns.” 

Yoder said the program provides a self-certifying function, but another party, such as WasteCap Nebraska or P2RIC, eventually may be able to analyze organizations and verify higher degrees of certification.

To view the beta version of the Green Business Certification application, visit http://bit.ly/GBCApp.

For more information, contact Yoder at ryoder@mail.unomaha.edu or 402.554.6251.

-Wendy Harrison

__________________________________________________________________

Visit Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) for Energy Efficiency Incentive Database

Did you know that small businesses pay more than the sector average for energy? Small manufacturing firms pay 35 percent more while small commercial businesses pay 30 percent more. Businesses are interested in saving energy for several reasons, including:

• Improving efficiency and productivity
• Reducing operating costs
• Reducing U.S. dependency on foreign oil
• Responding to current consumer green trends

Many times, there are low- or no-cost options for businesses to reduce energy consumption. These include turning off equipment at night or when it’s not being used, reducing leakage of the building by weather-stripping, caulking and sealing leaks and setting back the thermostat when the building is unoccupied.

There are also many energy efficiency incentives currently available from local utilities, the state and federal government. Incentives range from replacing existing T-12 fluorescent lamps with T-8 fluorescent lamps and electronic ballasts, to installing programmable thermostats, new heat-pumps, more efficient motors or using renewable energy. Lighting is typically about 30 percent of building energy costs, so reductions in this area can be significant.

The Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) developed and maintains an extensive database of energy efficiency incentives at http://www.nbdc.unomaha.edu/energy/index2.cfm. From this site, you simply click on the graphic of Nebraska, then choose your utility company. You will see all the energy efficiency incentives offered from that utility company, the state of Nebraska and the federal government, with links to the location on their Web sites so you can get more information and application forms.

The NBDC energy site also has some basic energy saving information (Bank Your Power) plus links to two excellent tools from Energy Star. Energy Star Portfolio Manager allows you to benchmark your building’s energy usage and track your improvements. It automatically accounts for the weather, so you can see real changes in energy use. A score of 75 or greater means you are in the top 25 percent of efficiency for your classification of business. If you receive that score, you qualify for Energy Star recognition. You may use Portfolio Manager to easily track improvements as you become more efficient.

Another tool is Energy Star Cash Flow Opportunity Calculator. Use this tool to determine whether it’s better to invest in new technology now or to wait.

For more information, contact Jean Waters, jwaters@unomaha.edu; 402-554-6259.

- Jean Waters

__________________________________________________________________

The Four Most Important Things Your Business Needs to Know Right Now About Climate Change

2010-02-11T10:43:00.001-06:00

I grow increasingly appreciative of the Marten Law Group's blog about such things. Their four things:
1. Track and Report GHG Emissions
2. Consider Climate Risks in SEC Reporting
3. Anticipate GHG Limits in Clean Air Act Permits
4. Incorporate Climate Change In Environmental Reviews

More here: http://ow.ly/16mdU

NYT: SEC Issues Climate-Risk Guidance Despite Tough Political Environment

2010-01-28T16:57:00.001-06:00

SEC issues climate risk requirement in 3-2 vote

"The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission yesterday said companies must disclose to investors the physical impact that climate change has on assets and the consequences of regulations curbing greenhouse gas emissions. The SEC public disclosure guidance on climate-related risks is seen as a major victory by an army of environmental groups and institutional investors that have pressed the issue since 2007."

More: http://ow.ly/11yQn

GBC Green Business Certification Form: Beta Testers Wanted

2010-01-28T10:22:00.004-06:00

Thanks to everyone who helped develop this process and form. Now the rubber hits the road - please download, test and give feedback to the team who worked to bring your ideas to life. The form is linked below and the feedback should go to either GBC co-chairs. Thanks!
application_green_business_reader.pdf

Report Claims Consumers Want To Buy Verifiably Green Goods

2010-01-08T15:04:00.001-06:00

It's too expensive for me to order, so I'll have to trust the summary. According to the BBMG Conscious Consumer Report for 2009: Redefining Value In a New Economy http://www.bbmg.com/ (look under News & Insights) 77% of Americans say they can make a difference by purchasing goods from social and environmentally responsible companies, but they want assurances that such claims are backed up with legitimate practices.

City & Omaha by Design to Host Public Meeting on Resource Conservation Jan. 20

2010-01-06T12:55:00.000-06:00

From Teresa Gleason, program manager at Omaha by Design http://www.omahabydesign.org/

OMAHA – What can Omaha do to better conserve the resources it relies on for daily life in the metro?
City officials and Omaha by Design are hosting a public meeting to begin addressing this issue Wednesday, Jan. 20. The event, which serves as the kickoff of the resource conservation component of Environment Omaha, will be held from 6:30 to 8:00pm at the Scott Conference Center, 6450 Pine St. It is free and open to the public.
Environment Omaha, launched in November 2008, is a new policy development initiative that's creating an Environmental Element for the city's master plan. It's addressing five major content areas – the natural environment, urban form and transportation, building construction, resource conservation and community health.
The guest speaker for the Jan. 20 event is Amy Malick, Midwest regional director for ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability. The organization, founded in 1990 as the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives, is an international association of local, regional and national government organizations that have made a commitment to sustainable development.
Malick opened the organization's Chicago office in 2007, which services its Midwest membership across 13 states. Prior to her arrival at ICLEI, she worked for the Chicago Transit Authority and the City of Seattle's Strategic Planning Office. She holds a Master of Urban Planning degree from the University of Washington at Seattle with specializations in environmental design and community development.
Malick's presentation will be followed by an information open house. A series of information stations pertaining to water, air and climate, energy, materials and human resources will be set up. City staff and members of the Resource Conservation Advisory Committee will be available at each station to answer questions and record comments. The Resource Conservation Advisory Committee is chaired by Marcella Thompson, ConAgra Foods Inc.
Funding for Environment Omaha, which is receiving significant city staff and resource support, is provided by grants from the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District, the Metropolitan Area Planning Agency and the City of Omaha's Stormwater Management Plan Program Grant from the Nebraska Department of Environmental Services.
Parking for the meeting will be available in Lot 9 across the street from the Scott Conference Center. Carpooling, walking, cycling or taking the bus is also encouraged. Metro Area Transit Route 11 stops at The Peter Kiewit Institute. For more information on the bus schedule, visit www.metroareatransit.com.
For members of the public unable to attend the meeting, it will be webcast live on www.environmentomaha.com. Questions and comments can be submitted to www.environmentomaha.com.
For more information, contact Omaha by Design at 402.554.4010 or info@omahabydesign.org

EPA's Resource Conservation Challenge Web Course 2010 Schedule

2010-01-06T11:15:00.000-06:00

EPA Resource Conservation Challenge Web Academy
Solid Waste Management and Recycling Education Series 2010
http://www.epa.gov/waste/rcc/web-academy/index.htm

February 18, 2010	Recycling Markets Update
March 18, 2010	Green Casinos/Venue Sustainability Practices
April 15, 2010	Rural Recycling—Bridging the Gaps
May 20, 2010	Social Marketing-Changing Behavior in Your Community
June 17, 2010	Multi-Family Dwellings Recycling
July 15, 2010	Recycling & Market Development of Unique Materials
August 19, 2010	Food Waste/Organics Reduction and Recycling
September 16, 2010	Greening University Campuses
October 21, 2010	Sustainable Materials Management

New this year, you will be able to receive Continuing Education Credits (CEUs) if you are a member of SWANA (Solid Waste Association of North America). Just download the form on our Website and fax it to the SWANA contact listed on the form.

We look forward to your continued participation. You can count on EPA's RCC Web Series to bring you the latest information offered by top experts in the field.

Cordially,

Janice Johnson,
RCC Web Academy Manager

Eco-officers are moving into executive suites

2010-01-04T14:21:00.000-06:00

At many companies, sustainability officers are placed in the upper echelons of companies, where they are highly visible. In some cases, the CEO has taken on the extra duty.
By Tiffany Hsu, The Los Angeles Times, December 30, 2009

As companies grapple with climate change, try to attract eco-conscious customers and develop alternative energy agendas while complying with regulations, a new kind of administrator is moving into the executive suite to help out. Sustainability officers and green supervisors, some say, are successors to the diversity managers and innovation specialists of the 1990s -- with their focus equal parts corporate responsibility, public relations and profit. "Our clients expect this," Pogue said. "A company of our size doesn't have the luxury any longer of not participating."

A good read from the LATimes, http://ow.ly/SH6z

Are your Electronic Purchases Green? Then Say So!

2009-12-17T16:57:00.001-06:00

Interested in 'greening' your electronic purchasing? Already doing so? Please take a short (10 question) survey on the EPEAT green electronics rating system to help us support environmental purchasing of electronics. In observation of this season of giving, we'll enter all completed survey respondents' names into a drawing for a $25 donation to a charity of your choice. Click this link to start the survey, which shouldn't take more than 10-15 minutes of your time: http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/?p=WEB229ZW5MY8RX

EPP: Version 4 of OFEE's Green Products Compilation is Now Available

2009-12-17T16:43:00.001-06:00

Version 4 of OFEE's green products compilation spreadsheets is now available on the FedCenter web site,www.fedcenter.gov. It's in the Acquisition section, in the Databases/Software Tools section. This version includes the nine additional biobased products recently designated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and new ENERGY STAR standards for audio/visual equipment and geothermal heat pumps. On each page where steel products are listed, there is a new note about the current percentages of recovered materials in steel products. The Steel Recycling Institute announced in December that all new steel manufactured in North America contains at least 28% recycled content. For more information, contact Dana Arnold, Senior Program Manager, Office of the Federal Environmental Executive, arnold.dana@ofee.gov, 703-780-4481

Worth a Look: "Green Teams: Engaging Employees in Sustainability"

2009-12-11T08:12:00.003-06:00

Posted at GreenBiz, this new report explores and outlines the 10 best practices for bringing all your employees on board with your company's sustainability projects. From the executive summary of the report:
"Green teams are self-organized, grassroots and cross-functional groups of employees who voluntarily come together to educate, inspire and empower employees around sustainability. They identify and implement specific solutions to help their organization operate in a more environmentally sustainable fashion. Most green teams initially focus on greening operations at the office, addressing such issues as recycling in the office, composting food waste, reducing the use of disposable take-out containers and eliminating plastic water bottles.
This focus on operations is evolving and some green teams are beginning to focus their efforts on integrating sustainability into employees' personal lives, while others are aligning their efforts to support broader corporate sustainability objectives. The business value of integrating sustainability into these three levels includes: cost savings by integrating energy efficiency into the workplace and products and services; attracting and retaining the best and brightest talent who want to work for companies with an authentic green commitment; and increased market share and revenues resulting from a stronger brand and new, innovative green products and services."

Green Business Council Meeting Jan 27, 3:30-5 pm

2009-12-11T08:07:00.001-06:00

Event Location: Whole Foods Education Room
10020 Regency Circle, Omaha

It's a great agenda. We're lucky to have Marcella Thompson, former chair of the Green Business Council in to speak to us in her capacity as the Director of Sustainability at ConAgra Foods. At that job she is responsible for managing the corporate greenhouse gas inventory, and will share her experience with us to provide an overview of Carbon Footprinting. The presentation will include key terms and concepts, what emissions sources are included, and free tools to assist you in calculating your emissions.
After that, the staff from P2RIC will offer the beta Green Business scorecard for use by members of the Green Business Council. This is a process that was developed in conjunction with the member of the GBC. As with any beta, we'll be looking for early adopters in the group to try the scorecard on for size and become the first businesses in town who can say they've met the criteria set by the Green Business Council to call themselves Green Businesses.
As I've mentioned before, the GBC is proud to announce it's new chair is Craig Moody, principal of Verdis Group, http://verdisgroup.com/ We're lucky to have his time - I very much look forward to his leadership.
There will be a Green Drinks at Whole Foods afterwards; please feel welcome to stay and talk with other members of the Green Omaha community.
The next meeting will be Weds, March 24. The City of Omaha's Sustainability Coordinator, Kristi Wamsted-Evans will be presenting.

Existing Energy Efficiency Technologies Could Provide Major Savings

2009-12-09T16:00:00.000-06:00

Energy efficiency technologies that exist today or that are likely to be developed in the near future could save considerable money as well as energy, says a new report from the National Research Council. Fully adopting these technologies could lower projected U.S. energy use 17 percent to 20 percent by 2020, and 25 percent to 31 percent by 2030.
Achieving full deployment of these efficiency technologies will depend in part on pressures driving adoption, such as high energy prices or public policies designed to increase energy efficiency. Nearly 70 percent of electricity consumption in the United States occurs in buildings. The energy savings from attaining full deployment of cost-effective, energy-efficient technologies in buildings alone could eliminate the need to add new electricity generation capacity through 2030, the report says. New power generation facilities would be needed only to address imbalances in regional energy supplies, replace obsolete facilities, or to introduce more environmentally friendly sources of electricity.
Many cost-effective efficiency investments in buildings are possible, the report says. For example, replacing appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators, freezers, furnaces, and hot water heaters with more efficient models could reduce energy use by 30 percent. Opportunities for achieving substantial energy savings exist in the industrial and transportation sectors as well. For example, deployment of industrial energy efficiency technologies could reduce energy use in manufacturing 14 percent to 22 percent by 2020, relative to expected trends. Most of these savings would occur in the most energy-intensive industries, such as chemical manufacturing, petroleum refining, pulp and paper, iron and steel, and cement.
Although there is great potential, many barriers exist to widespread adoption of energy efficiency technologies, the report points out. The upfront costs can be high, which can deter investment despite the possibility of long-term cost savings. Volatile energy prices can cause buyers to delay purchasing more efficient technology due to a lack of confidence that they will see an adequate return on their investment. In addition, there is a shortage of readily available, trustworthy information for consumers hoping to learn about the relative performance and costs of energy-efficient technology alternatives. Investments in energy-efficient infrastructure are particularly important, as these can lock in patterns of energy use for decades. Therefore, taking advantage of windows of opportunity for infrastructure is crucial.
Overcoming these barriers will require significant public and private support, and sustained effort. Many energy efficiency initiatives have been successful, such as the U.S. Department of Energy and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star labeling program. Efforts undertaken by California and New York have yielded large energy savings for those states. These experiences provide valuable lessons for national, state, and local policymakers on enacting effective energy efficiency policies.
This is the final report in a series from the National Academies' America's Energy Future project, which was undertaken to stimulate and inform a constructive national dialogue about the nation's energy future.
Copies of Real Prospects for Energy Efficiency in the United States are available from the National Academies Press. http://j.mp/8uPxZS

New Report: Efficiency is the Best Policy to Achieve Climate Change Success

2009-12-08T10:35:00.000-06:00

What? Efficiency is the best strategy? That's hardly news; it's been U.S. national policy since the P2 Act of 1990.
From the World Business Council for Sustainable Development: "Governments around the world could make rapid, substantial and relatively cheap cuts to carbon emissions by pursuing energy efficiency in place of more ambitious, but expensive, technological solutions, says a new study." http://j.mp/5n7BT9
From the NY Times "A new report on energy efficiency from the consulting firm McKinsey found that the United States could save $1.2 trillion through 2020, by investing $520 billion in improvements like sealing leaky building ducts and replacing inefficient household appliances with new, energy-saving models." http://j.mp/bwVgv
The report from McKinsey & Co is available here: http://j.mp/6vhvJ

New CBO Report: "The Costs of Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions"

2009-12-07T12:00:00.001-06:00

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) last week published a new issue summary examining the likely economic burden to be imposed by the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. "The Costs of Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions" specifically discusses the economic costs of reducing greenhouse-gas emissions in the U.S., describing the main determinants of costs, how analysts estimate those costs, and the magnitude of estimated costs. The brief also illustrates the uncertainty surrounding such estimates using studies of H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009 which was passed by the House of Representatives earlier this year. The study found that the costs of reducing emissions would depend on several factors: * The growth of emissions in the absence of policy changes; * The types of policies used to restrict emissions; * The magnitude of the reductions achieved by those policies; * The extent to which producers and consumers could moderate emission-intensive activities without reducing their material well-being; and, * The policies pursued by other countries. After examining the incremental cost, aggregate cost and distribution of costs of greenhouse gas emissions reductions, CBO concluded that policymakers face a basic choice: "whether to adopt conventional regulatory approaches, such as setting standards for machinery, equipment, and appliances, or to employ market-based approaches, such as imposing taxes on emissions or establishing cap-and-trade programs. Experts generally conclude that market-based approaches would reduce emissions to a specified level at significantly lower cost than conventional regulations. Whereas conventional regulations impose specific requirements that may not be the least costly means of reducing emissions, market-based approaches would provide much more latitude for firms and households to determine the cost cost-effective means of accomplishing that goal." The entire 12-page CBO report is available athttp://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/104xx/doc10458/11-23-GHG_Emissions_Brief.pdf
Thanks to Robert Rains at ASME for the information.

Postponed: Green Business Council Meeting Dec 9, 3:30-5 pm

2009-12-03T17:39:00.002-06:00

Event Location: Whole Foods Education Room
10020 Regency Circle, Omaha

It's a great agenda. We're lucky to have Marcella Thompson, former chair of the Green Business Council (did I mention we have a new chair?) in to speak to us in her capacity as the Director of Sustainability at ConAgra Foods. At that job she is responsible for managing the corporate greenhouse gas inventory, and will share her experience with us to provide an overview of Carbon Footprinting. The presentation will include key terms and concepts, what emissions sources are included, and free tools to assist you in calculating your emissions.
After that, the staff from P2RIC will offer the beta Green Business scorecard for use by members of the Green Business Council. This is a process that was developed in conjunction with the member of the GBC. As with any beta, we'll be looking for early adopters in the group to try the scorecard on for size and become the first businesses in town who can say they've met the criteria set by the Green Business Council to call themselves Green Businesses.
Alas, because of the reschedule, there will not be a planned Green Drinks at Whole Foods afterwards. I'm sure they wouldn't mind an impromptu gathering of customers after the meeting - we'll check the space for availability.
As I mentioned above, the GBC is proud to announce it's new chair is Craig Moody, principal of Verdis Group, http://verdisgroup.com/ We're lucky to have his time - I very much look forward to his leadership.
The next meeting will be Weds, January 27. The City of Omaha's Sustainability Coordinator, Kristi Wamsted-Evans will be presenting.

The Green Business Council is part of the Green Omaha Coalition. http://www.greenomahacoalition.org/articles/greenbusiness/ The GBC mission is to create a network of businesses interested in sharing sustainable practices and recognize leading green businesses in Omaha. The GBC invites interested businesses from all industries to improve the sustainability of their operations. The GBC addresses a wide variety of environmental programs, including but not limited to: procurement, resource efficiency (energy and water), waste reduction (solid and hazardous), climate change, and green building. The GBC seeks to involve two business groups: (1) those already implementing sustainability programs and (2) those interested but lacking the resources to pursue and implement sustainable strategies.

Sustainable Networking Event Weds, Dec 16, 6-8pm

2009-12-03T09:59:00.001-06:00

LISTEN, TALK AND ENJOY ORGANIC WINE TASTING AT THE SUSTAINABLE NETWORKING EVENT AT THE PIZZA SHOPPE COLLECTIVE WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 16TH, 2009, 6-8pm, free to all

Small Businesses and Sustainable Organizations Collaborate! The Greener Omaha Coalition, Verdis Group, The Benson-Ames Alliance, Element Distributing, and The Pizza Shoppe Collective have teamed up to provide faster, more efficient networking for those interested in supporting environmentally-friendly activity
within the Omaha community.
How we started: After surveying 65 'green' organizations (community advocates, entrepreneurs, non-profits), we have discovered that the challenges of these various sustainable groups were similar, i.e., they all need particular support and connections in order to achieve their goals. From this we have developed a free, casual networking event, which allows guests to have some assistance with their needs.
Those attending will have the opportunity to discuss sustainable business practices with our special guest speaker, Kristi Wamstad-Evans, The Sustainability Coordinator for the City of Omaha. The latter half of the event will be specific 'breakout sessions' to assist those involved with the following areas of focus: 1. Marketing 2. Business planning c. Financing/funding d. Sustainable Solutions
There will be facilitators representing each component who will be able to direct guests to the proper channels in order to ease and expedite the process of growth for sustainable interests.
Craig Moody of Verdis Group, states, "This event was created to provide the sustainable community with more of what they need to be successful. By focusing on these four areas, we are targeting the most common obstacles and hoping to help attendees break free from the restraints that are holding them back."
There will also be an organic wine tasting with Republic National Distributing Company.

Amy Ryan/Pizza Shoppe Collective
Phone: 402.884.8680
Email: amy@pscollective.com
Web site: http://www.pscollective.com

WasteCap Nebraska's Omaha Regional Green Team Roundtable Meeting Dec 9

2009-12-03T09:52:00.001-06:00

When: Wednesday, December 9th from 11:30am-1pm
Where: Omaha recycling facility (8616 G Street)

LifeSpan Recycling is hosting WasteCap Nebraska's Omaha Green Team Roundtable. The Roundtable provides businesses an opportunity to network, sharing their stewardship ideas, successes and environmental challenges and solutions. The gathering will begin with open networking, a short environmental educational segment from UNL Engineering College's P3 program on "What it Means to be Green: Operating a Sustainable Business using the Easy and Profitable Techniques of Pollution Prevention," followed by a presentation and facility tour by LifeSpan Recycling. LifeSpan is a certified computer and electronics recycler.
WasteCap is a member based, non-profit, environmental organization, dedicated to assisting business develop and adopt green practices- that improves their profitability. WasteCap helps business with simple issues like setting up recycling plans and green teams to high tech issues dealing with energy, water, and air issues. WasteCap is where conservation meets common sense.
LifeSpan is providing lunch. As a result attendees must RSVP by calling with WasteCap at (402)436-2383 or email rbeckman@wastecapne.org.

Message from NWF: Show Business Support for Climate Legislation

2009-11-17T13:49:00.001-06:00

Nebraska businesses big and small can join the fight for strong climate legislation! • American Businesses for Clean Energy (ABCE) is a new initiative to support action on clean energy and climate change policies, by offering a platform for U.S. businesses to express their support for meaningful and effective solutions that will drive clean technology innovation, create jobs, and address the threat of global climate change. • ABCE shows the breadth of support among businesses of all sizes, from all states, for moving America forward with clean energy that will strengthen our economy, make us more secure and reduce pollution. • ABCE supports strong, comprehensive clean energy and climate policies will drive investment in cost-lowering and energy-saving technologies, create a new wave of industrial growth that is supported by millions of new business opportunities and jobs here in the United States, restore our technological edge and increase security here at home by reducing our dependence on energy sources from overseas. It doesn't matter what kind of business you have -- big, small, or sole proprietor -- or what business you are in -- doctor, lawyer, clean energy, chimney sweep, whatever -- you can add your name to the list of businesses supporting strong climate change legislation. Tell Duane Hovorka you are interested (HovorkaD@NWF.org) and he will send you the sign-on letter to review, and pdf of a poster you can put in your window showing your support for good legislation. The National Wildlife Federation is collecting names for the business sign-on to demonstrate support from the Nebraska business community for strong legislation -- add your business's name today!

Comment Period ends Nov 30: EPA's DfE Criteria for Safer Cleaning Products

2009-11-16T14:28:00.001-06:00

USEPA's Design for the Environment (DfE) program crafted changes to "EPA's DfE Criteria for Safer Cleaning Products (CSCP) in the Form of a Standard" ("DfE Criteria"). DfE initiated the changes in response to comments and suggestions from a broad spectrum of stakeholders who support these new provisions. The changes are intended to enhance the DfE Criteria and DfE Safer Product Labeling Program, which prevents pollution at its source by guiding and encouraging the replacement of chemicals of concern with safer alternatives in a variety of chemical-based products.
The comment solicitation is here: http://www.epa.gov/dfe/enhancements_to_dfe_criteria.html
The full criteria document (31 pp, 175K) that contains the changes in context and highlighted is here: http://www.epa.gov/dfe/pubs/projects/formulat/dfe_criteria_for_cleaning_products_10_09.pdf
To make it easy to get your comments included, you should send them directly to David Difiore (difiori.david@epa.gov) as the government site is virtually impossible to figure out… DfE has made it known that sending comments to David will be considered "officially" included in the public comments.

Green Hotel Program in Five States

2009-11-10T15:11:00.000-06:00

From a posting by ENS: "Just since Labor Day, greener hotel operations are being stimulated by new programs in five states and one city that have joined the growing movement to environmentally friendly accommodations. New certifications for green hotels are now available in Indiana, Maryland, New York, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and the city of Buffalo, New York. On October 6, the State of Indiana became the first state in the USA to adopt the Green Key Eco-Rating Program as its official statewide environmental initiative for the lodging industry....
The Green Key Eco-Rating Program expanded its operations to the United States from its Canadian roots on September 21, 2009. The program was originally developed for the Hotel Association of Canada.
The Green Key evaluation is a comprehensive 140-question audit that is self-administered by the staff at the participating property. The answers are tabulated and the property is awarded a ranking of 1 to 5 Keys and a display plaque. The property receives a report with recommendations, best practices and potential areas for improvement and savings. Green Key includes random, on-site verification of audit results. [emphasis added]"
Full story here: http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/nov2009/2009-11-09-092.asp

Office Workers Will Sacrifice Comfort to Save Energy

2009-11-09T14:51:00.000-06:00

Nearly 70% of U.S. office workers would be willing to sacrifice their preferred ideal office temperature to help their company conserve energy, according to a new survey. Almost all respondents to the Johnson Controls survey of around 800 office workers said their office has been too hot or too cold at some point, and when that occurs, nearly 80% said they are less productive. However, respondents cited numerous ways in which they affect their own comfort, such as using fans and space heaters, adjusting their clothing, or briefly leaving their work area. Forty-five percent of respondents think their employer is not doing enough to make their office environments energy efficient.
- Energy Daily, Nov 4, 2009, http://bit.ly/f4WNa

U.S. Government, Wal-Mart and You

2009-11-09T14:18:00.000-06:00

Wal-Mart and the U.S. government have announced plans to start tracking the sustainability profile of their suppliers as well as their products and services. As two of the largest buyers in the world, the directives from these companies have the potential to impact many companies in the U.S. and around the globe.
The U.S. government buys more than $500 billion worth of products and services each year from roughly 230,000 different companies, according to USAspending.gov. It is the world's largest buyer of goods and services. Wal-Mart, as the largest consumer products retailer in the world, buys roughly $300 billion each year in products that it sells in its retail stores from more than 100,000 different companies.
If your company sells products and services to one or both of them, expect that you will soon be required to provide more information about your environmental impact.
The full story by Robert Harris is here: http://bit.ly/3lUKK2

DOE & EPA Release 2010 Annual Fuel Economy Guide

2009-10-26T10:29:00.000-05:00

The Department of Energy (DOE) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have released the "2010 Fuel Economy Guide" which provides information on estimated fuel costs and mileage standards for model year 2010 vehicles. Fuel efficiency is important for reducing carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that contribute to global climate change. "Fuel economy is about both saving energy and saving money," said Energy Secretary Steven Chu. "Buying fuel efficient vehicles - like the many hybrid technologies featured in this year's Fuel Economy Guide - helps limit carbon pollution, lessen our dependence on foreign oil, and reduce driving costs for American families." Each vehicle listing in the Fuel Economy Guide provides an estimated annual fuel cost. The estimate is calculated based on the vehicle's miles per gallon (mpg) rating and national estimates for annual mileage and fuel prices. The online version of the guide allows consumers to input their local gasoline prices and typical driving habits to receive a personalized fuel cost estimate. A complete copy of the 2010 guide is available athttp://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/feg2000.htm.
The guide is also available to mobile users (fueleconomy.gov/m) and is accessible from a mobile device, smart phone or PDA).

Federal Green Products CompilationUpdated

2009-10-01T11:13:00.000-05:00

Version 3 of OFEE's (Office of the Federal Environmental Executive)compilation of the designated green products is now posted on the FedCenter (http://www.fedcenter.gov/programs/buygreen/)and OFEE (www.ofee.gov)web sites. This version includes new FEMP standards for beverage vending machines and ENERGY STAR standards for televisions.

Proposed Approach to Provide Assistance to Small Businesses on GHG Emissions Management

2009-09-28T12:46:00.000-05:00

In 2008, EPA's Climate Leaders Program developed tools and resources to help smaller companies measure and reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. At the same time, Climate Leaders began including "low emitters"--companies that emit less than 10,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents (MTCO2e) on an annual corporate-wide basis--into the program. Since then, approximately 70 such companies have joined Climate Leaders.
Due to the current and expected growing number of small businesses that are interested in joining the program, EPA has determined that a new way of engaging them would enable the program to continue to deliver quality GHG management tools, technical assistance and public recognition within existing resources. The paper here http://www.epa.gov/climateleaders/documents/small_business_approach.pdf outlines a new approach to engaging small businesses.
EPA is seeking feedback from partners and others, in particular from small businesses to ensure that the proposed new approach meets their needs most effectively and from large companies to determine how this model can best assist their small suppliers in reducing their emissions.
Using the feedback form appended to the attached paper, please send any comments to Verena Radulovic at Radulovic.Verena@epa.gov by 9:00 pm EDT, Friday, October 16, 2009. This document will also be available in the coming days on the Climate Leaders website at www.epa.gov/climateleaders until October 16, 2009. Proposed changes to the Program's engagement with small businesses would take effect on January 1, 2010.

EPA Finalizes Greenhouse Gas Reporting Rule

2009-09-28T09:14:00.000-05:00

On January 1, 2010, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will require large emitters of heat-trapping emissions to begin collecting greenhouse gas (GHG) data under a new reporting system. This new program will cover approximately 85 percent of the nation's GHG emissions and apply to roughly 10,000 facilities. "This is a major step forward in our effort to address the greenhouse gases polluting our skies," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "For the first time, we begin collecting data from the largest facilities in this country, ones that account for approximately 85 percent of the total U.S. emissions. The American public, and industry itself, will finally gain critically important knowledge and with this information we can determine how best to reduce those emissions." Most small businesses would fall below the 25,000-metric-ton threshold,EPA said, and would not be required to report their emissions. The only agricultural sources that are required to report their emissions are manure management systems at livestock operations where greenhouse gas emissions meet or exceed the 25,000-ton limit. About 100 livestock operations meet that threshold, EPA said. EPA's new reporting system will provide a better understanding of where GHGs are coming from and will guide development of policies and programs to reduce emissions. The data will also allow businesses to track their own emissions, compare them to similar facilities, and provide assistance in identifying cost effective ways to reduce emissions in the future. The first annual reports for the largest emitting facilities, covering calendar year 2010, will be submitted to EPA in 2011. Vehicle and engine manufacturers outside of the light-duty sector will begin phasing in GHG reporting with model year 2011. Thanks to ASME Capitol Update for the story. More information on the new reporting system and reporting requirements, are available at:http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/emissions/ghgrulemaking.html

Energy Star Portfolio Manager On-line Training Schedule

2009-09-23T16:11:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Jean Waters for her overview of USEPA's Energy Star Portfolio Manager. As she mentioned, several on-line courses are available for specific interests. Tomorrow's courses, for example are https://energystar.webex.com/mw0305l/mywebex/default.do?siteurl=energystar are a one hour course entitled "Portfolio Manager 101 for Congregations" and a two hour course entitled "Best Practices to Improve Energy Performance: Commercial Real Estate."

Green Business Council meeting Weds. Sep 23, 3:30 pm

2009-09-22T14:48:00.001-05:00

The regularly scheduled Green Business Council meeting will convene at 3:30 at the Whole Foods, 10020 Regency Circle, in the education room next to the coffee bar.

Presenter will be Jean Waters, the manager of an SBA funded regional energy efficiency for small business project. http://nbdc.unomaha.edu/energy/index2.cfm She will present on the Energy Star Portfolio Manager, http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=evaluate_performance.bus_portfoliomanager

GBC Co-chair Rick Yoder will have an update on the Green Business Certification protocol.

Green Drinks will follow at 5:30. http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/event.php?eid=130334138730&ref=ts

--
Green Business Council | Green Omaha Coalition
www.greenomahacoalition.org

ANSI approves Green Seal Standard for Restaurants

2009-09-09T13:29:00.001-05:00

Green Seal's GS-46 Becomes American National Standard For Restaurants and Food Services
Green Seal Inc. is pleased to announce that the Green Seal Environmental Standard for Restaurants and Food Services, GS-46, has been approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). First published in May 2009, GS-46 is based on real data on the environmental impacts of restaurants and food services including the impacts of food, energy and water use, and supplies. As a result, the GS-46 standard provides a comprehensive framework to guide operations on how to reduce their environmental impacts and is the basis for Green Seal Certification.
GS-46 is the first Green Seal specification to be approved as an American National Standard. According to ANSI, "The procedures used by the standards body in connection with the development of American National Standards meet the Institute's Essential Requirements for openness, balance, consensus and due process."
GS-46 was developed with input from over one hundred stakeholders including industry trade groups, operators, suppliers, academia and environmental and health organizations. In addition to its ANSI accreditation, Green Seal
follows ISO 14024 guidelines in developing environmental standards and certifying products. Green Seal standards also comply with the Global Ecolabelling Criteria.
"Green Seal is proud to have this important standard approved by ANSI," said Dr. Arthur Weissman, President and CEO. "ANSI approval validates the consensus and procedural processes used by Green Seal in developing GS-46 as an American National Standard."

http://greenseal.org/newsroom/pr_restaurant_standard.pdf
http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS130585+09-Sep-2009+PRN20090909

Green Business Certification in the Ozarks

2009-09-08T09:57:00.001-05:00

OZARKS GREENSCORE - Springfield, MO's own Green Business Certification focuses on "educating, motivating and assisting area businesses and organizations in adopting environmentally sustainable practices." The certification involves six steps (1. reviewing the resource documents, 2. implementing recommended strategies, 3. identifying additional strategies, 4. completing an online assessment, 5. a free onsite assessment by an Ozarks GreenScore representative, 6. recognition as an Ozarks GreenScore organization), and is general enough to encompass most businesses in the area. The certification encourages improvements in 13 areas (Energy efficiency, Water conservation, Carbon Footprint analysis, Water quality protection, Wastewater management, Air quality protection, Solid waste reduction/recycling, Hazardous waste reduction, Responsible building practices, Low impact grounds maintenance, Vehicle fleet maintenance, Community involvement, Stormwater management) and awards qualifying businesses with one of four recognition levels (Bronze, Silver, Gold or Green). For more information see www.ozarksgreenscore.com.

Gil Friend's new book, "The Truth About Green Business"

2009-09-03T09:29:00.001-05:00

I've had the pleasure of talking with Gil before at a couple of P2 meetings and I just ordered his new book. http://www.natlogic.com/approach/publications/the-truth-about-green-business/ In his presentation at the Commonwealth Club on Aug 18 he claims the book has a good deal of practical information as well as theoretical. I'll let you know after I get a chance to look through it. In the meantime, the Club presentation is available for your viewing pleasure here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKB20j4sWAE

Interesting survey describes "green consumers"

2009-09-03T09:21:00.001-05:00

A survey done by the Shelton Group, an ad agency that crafts messages to motivate consumers towards sustainable actions, offers six myths about green consumers. No big surprise for those of us who have been paying attention, but it may be surprising to those who are shifting priorities to the growing green market. High on the list is the myth that economics tops the environment as the primary concern of consumers when they purchase sustainable products or engage in sustainable practices, according to a survey of U.S. consumers. When asked the most important reason to reduce energy consumption, 73% of respondents chose "to reduce my bills/control costs" and only 26% chose "to lessen my impact on the environment."

Here are the list and the links:
1. Myth: Green consumers' top concern is the environment.
2. Myth: Green consumers' main motivation when reducing their energy use is to save the planet.
3. Myth: Green consumers are all-knowledgeable about environmental issues.
4. Myth: Green consumers fall into a simple demographic profile.
5. Myth: Children play a big part in influencing their parents to be green.
6. Myth: If people just knew the facts they'd make greener choices.

http://www.sheltongroupinc.com/blog/?p=605

And for the low, low price of $5,000, you can get the report. http://www.sheltongroupinc.com/research/green_living_pulse.php

A Resource for the Accountants on your Green Team

2009-08-14T14:44:00.001-05:00

The Professional Accountants in Business (PAIB) Committee of the International Federation of Accountants, who is "Leading the development of the global profession", has a new-ish (Feb'09) IFAC Sustainability Framework that you can find at http://web.ifac.org/sustainability-framework/splash . It includes good material on performance indicators and other technical references. Since it is almost certain that the vast majority of working accountants, do not know about this, you can be the resource-savvy team member to enlist their help in greening your organization. Thanks to my friend Burt Hamner at www.cleanerproduction.com for the tip. 02/06/09 Press Release: http://www.ifac.org/MediaCenter/?q=node/view/614

Business Scorecard Draft Available For Review & Comment

2009-08-13T14:10:00.001-05:00

We need your input! First draft of the GBC Business Scorecard (see Objective #4 in the strategy below) is available for your review. Please ask for your copy to review from Erin at <aebass@mail.unomaha.edu> or give her a call at 554-2176. If you have comments in to her by Friday, September 11, she'll compile the comments and make changes that we'll distribute at the September 23rd meeting.

Omaha Green Team Roundtable & Open House

2009-08-11T15:23:00.001-05:00

WasteCap Nebraska is hosting their Omaha Green Team Roundtable Wednesday, 11:30-1:00 at WasteCap's new Omaha Field Office, 5002 South 24th, in the Lower Level Conference Room. Brown Bagger Style (bring your own lunch) Beverage and Desert will be provided. This meeting is designed to provide businesses an opportunity to network, share what green programs are working for them, and trouble shoot areas that need improvement.
Since this is an Open House celebrating our WasteCap's Omaha Field Office, they will give an overview of WasteCap's programs in addition to our regular networking and educational presentation. This month's presentation is about the State of Nebraska Waste Characterization Study commissioned by NDEQ.
Please RSVP to rbeckman@wastecapne.org if you plan to attend.

Omaha Print: 150-Year-Old Company Keeps Itself Fresh with Green Commitment

2009-07-28T10:04:00.006-05:00

Business Member Spotlight
Interview with Chuck Kinzer, President/COO by Wendy Harrison, HDR, Inc.

Tell us about Omaha Print's history.
Omaha Print was established in 1858 as the Omaha Republican Newspaper. We became Omaha Printing Company in the 1880s. In 1995 we sold our office products division to focus solely on commercial printing. Our community commitment and involvement has been recognized, as Omaha Print is a recipient of the Golden Spike Award and the River City Round-up Heritage award.

How many employees do you have?
We currently have approximately 100 employees.

Where does Omaha Print have facilities?
Our manufacturing facility is in Omaha. We have sales offices in Des Moines, Atlanta and Dallas.

Describe Omaha Print's commitment to sustainability.
Being environmentally conscious is part of our belief in being accountable to our actions. We have earned the Chain-of-Custody certification from the U.S. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Sustainable Forest Initiative (FSI). These certifications ensure our clients that the paper we use comes from an environmentally and socially responsible source.

Our other sustainable practices include reducing the emissions of reactive organic gasses, printing with inks that contain 30 percent vegetable oil, ongoing maintenance of catalytic converters to eliminate pollutants, waste minimization and off-site recycling of numerous products.

What do your customers look for regarding sustainability?
Customers are looking for printers that are committed to practices that ensure the sustainability of our planet. Questions that need to be asked by marketing professionals or any printing customer include:
1) Is the medium a renewable resource?
Paper is made from wood, a resource that is being renewed on a daily basis. In contrast, electronic devices are made of plastics and other non-renewable resources.
2) Is the product being recycled?
Sixty percent of all paper is recycled, while only 18 percent of electronic devices are being recycled. Additionally, paper is biodegradable, while e-waste currently represents our single largest toxic waste export.

Quote from Jonathan Porritt, Chairman, UK Sustainability Commission, “There aren’t many industries that can aspire to becoming genuinely sustainable. The pulp and paper industry, however, is one of them. It is inherently sustainable.”

Why is Omaha Print a member of the Green Omaha Coalition?
As a strong supporter of environmental initiatives, joining the GOC gives Omaha Print the opportunity to support local projects and network with other concerned organizations, which leads to a sharing of best practices.

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May Green Business Council Meeting Notes

2009-05-29T10:56:00.002-05:00

1. Andy Noon PhD from Mutual of Omaha gave a great presentation on Organizational Culture Change. The highlights were:

*Definition of Organizational Change - "Norms of behavior and shared values among a group of people"
*How Culture is established - Derived from Senior Leadership and spread by stories, rituals, language, and material symbols.
*Resistance to Change - Reasons range from security, habit, fear of the unknown, etc.
*Establishing Successful Organization Change - Must come from the top or guided by an influencial person. Empowering the individuals in the workplace who implement the change is a good strategy to create successful change. Monitor short term wins between 3-5 years.

2. We need to create a questionairre to help establish guidelines for establishing best green business practices for organizations within the GOC.

- Energy Efficiency

- Water Conservation

- Materials Management

- Communications and Marketing

Rick at p2ric has some general categories that he will share with the group.

3. There was some small chatter related to meeting once a month for the GBC, but for next month we will plan on attending Wastecap Nebraska's meeting on June 9th and 10th. Information on these two events can be found here: http://www.wastecapne.org/events/jun/green-team-network.shtml

4. June 1st - 5th is World Environment Day in Omaha. To find out more information please visit: www.omahaenvironmentday.com

2009-05-27T11:32:00.002-05:00

Join us for the next Green Business Council Meeting, Wednesday May 27, 3:30 at Whole Foods, 10020 Regency Circle. The agenda includes:

3:30 - 4:00 Organizational Change - Andy Noon (Mutual of Omaha)
4:00 - 4:!5 Draft Green Business Scorecard - Rick Yoder
4:15 - 4:30 Green Business Council Leadership Transition - Marcella Thompson, Rick Yoder and Ryan McClure

---
Notes from the March meeting...
Erin Bass, student and intern at the Pollution Prevention Regional Information Center, provided a great overview of "Greenwashing" and the Federal Trade Commission's Green Guidelines. The topic was so timely that since then, TerraChoice has added a seventh deadly sin:

Lack of proof
Vagueness
Irrelevance
Lesser of two evils
Hidden trade-off
Outright lying
Worship of false labels (New!)

There was great discussion around how to navigate marketing strategies, reaching your customers in a meaningful way, and avoiding greenwashing.

2009-01-15T20:37:00.003-06:00

Green Business Council 2008 Achievements

The Green Business Council is fostering a strong connection to the Omaha business community through the leadership of Marcella Thompson and Rick Yoder. Businesses wanting to go green are now turning to the GBC for guidance because of its efforts. Two noteworthy achievements have been the Chamber Academy presentation “Going Green Can Put Your Business in the Black” in April and the Green Rush Hour Event hosted by Dale Gubbels, owner of Firstar Fiber in October.

Save the Date - Green Rush Hour Connections, October 28th 4 to 6 p.m.

2008-10-01T20:21:00.011-05:00

Come Tuesday, October 28, summer's leaves may have turned to autumn colors, but you can still be "green" by attending the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce's Rush Hour Connections from 4 to 6 p.m. at Firstar Fiber, 10330 "I" Street. Co-hosted by the Omaha Chamber and Firstar Fiber, in conjunction with the Green Omaha Coalition Green Business Council, attendees will have the opportunity to:

Network with other area businesses also interested in reducing their carbon footprints (and since food and drinks will be served, you can also imbibe of some tasty carbon as you're walking around, too);
Meet dozens of local businesses and organizations involved in selling and promoting conservation minded services and products; and
Tour Firstar Fiber's amazing material recovery facility, where recyclables set out by area residents and diverted from area businesses' waste streams are sorted and prepared for shipment to domestic and international mills.

Attendees are also encouraged to bring their discarded cell phones, computers and sensitive papers to be recycled respectively by Keep Omaha Beautiful, CP Recovery and area document destruction companies. Goodwill Industries will also be on hand, so feel free to bring items that can be donated for reuse. Learn energy saving techniques from Omaha Public Power District and GreenFiber, a local manufacturer of natural fiber insulation; how to green your lawn and landscape your premises with earth-friendly products from Natural Turf Care; as well as how Firstar Fiber and Porridge Papers of Lincoln can turn your company's scrap paper direction into holiday greeting cards. These are just a few of the highlights for this unique Chamber event.

So don't be left out and green with envy - register early to be apart of this special event, attendance is limited.

What's Driving Sustainable Business?

2008-06-17T22:13:00.003-05:00

by Marcella Thompson, LEED® AP, Green Business Council

Omaha businesses of all shapes and sizes have taken interest in going green and are looking at their operations through a sustainability lens. From grassroots efforts to formal corporate initiatives, sustainable business programs are raising the bar for performance, setting employee and customer expectations to new standards. Here's a look at some of the driving forces behind this movement.

Sustainability Drives Efficiency. Sustainability programs enable an organization to take a fresh look at the status quo and often streamline operations through efficiency and simplicity. From an environmental perspective, waste of any kind - excess energy and water use, solid waste generation - represents inefficiency in operations. Sustainability for business often translates to doing more with less. This principle applies to the full life cycle of your product or service as well. For example, Proctor & Gamble (P&G) improved the efficiency and reduced the environmental footprint of laundry detergent by introducing Tide Coldwater. In a February 2008 interview with Fortune Magazine, Len Sauers, P&G's new vice president of global sustainability, noted that if every U.S. household used cold water for laundry, the energy savings would be 70 to 90 billion kilowatt hours per year, which is three percent of the nation's total household energy consumption.
Defining the Triple Bottom Line. Without question, businesses today are judged by more than economic profitability. The concept of corporate citizenship increased the responsibility of businesses by incorporating a "triple bottom line" approach to measuring the success of business, accounting for economic, environmental and social performance. Also referred to as "people, planet and profit," robust corporate social responsibility initiatives address the needs of human capital, natural capital (i.e. the environment) and the traditional economic bottom line shared by all businesses.
Greening the Supply Chain. For businesses that operate primarily within the supply chain of larger organizations, corporate customers are increasingly asking more of suppliers in terms of sustainability. A host of voluntary supply chain-focused sustainability programs - such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Green Supplier Network and Carbon Disclosure Projects Supply Chain Leadership Collaboration - are providing structured framework and recognition for suppliers that take steps in greening their operations. Suppliers actively communicating their sustainability performance to customers may establish a competitive advantage.
Rising Consumer Expectations. As the nation's attention has turned to issues such as climate change and environmentally responsible purchasing, consumers have come to expect a higher level of transparency with businesses. Consumer advocacy groups and other environmental and socially focused non-governmental organizations are making information regarding the sustainability performance of businesses readily accessible to the public. For example, Climate Counts annually rates corporations on their efforts toward mitigating climate change, encouraging consumers to "speak with their wallet" and be mindful in their purchases.
Employee Engagement. Whether it began as a volunteer, grassroots effort or was pushed down from top management, sustainability programs often bring together a cross-functional team from across an organization. Engaging employees at all levels can increase the impact and influence of business sustainability programs. As an example, Wal-Mart drives sustainability throughout its organizational culture through an effort on "Personal Sustainability Projects" (PSPs). Initiated in 2006, Wal-Mart's voluntary PSP program helps employees incorporate the principles of sustainability into their daily lives by developing individual goals to improve their health and wellness and the health of the environment. In addition to improving the business image in the community, sustainability programs can enhance the culture of an organization and instill a sense of pride among employees.

Sustainability is an admirable goal, laden with opportunity and challenges. No matter what is motivating your business to "go green," working with other companies that are on the same path can facilitate and enhance the process. The Green Business Council is dedicated to establishing a network of local businesses working to promote sustainable business practices through business-to-business relationship building, education, and recognition programs. Local businesses have a tremendous opportunity to influence the culture of the greater Omaha area. Together, we can green commerce and our communities. For more information, contact greenomahacoalition@gmail.com.

Next GBC Meeting

2008-05-01T15:56:00.003-05:00

When? May 28th, 3:30pm

Where?

FirstStar Fiber
10330 I St.
Omaha NE. 68124
Includes tour!