Being GREEN makes “cents” City of Napa begins Green Business Stipend Program NOV E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3 51 “Greening" businesses has become a statewide trend that not only helps environmental sustainability, but also carries the potential to pay off financially for those businesses implementing more efficient and earth-friendly practices. Now a new local program looks to further incentivize green business practices. The City of Napa has been a partner of the County of Napa and Bay Area Green Business Program for the past five years. Beginning this past July, the City of Napa made a commitment by establishing a stipend program to assist local businesses in becoming part of an elite group known as “Certified Green Businesses.” These businesses have clearly demonstrated that they excel when it comes to caring for the environment. Having the Certified Green Business status publically distinguishes the establishments as being the best-of-the-best when it comes to green practices. The process begins with registering and applying online at www.greenbusinessca. org. During the application process, businesses are asked to implement ongoing practices in the areas of waste reduction and recycling, water and energy conservation, and overall pollution prevention. Upon submittal of the application, an independent evaluation is then conducted by various members of the green business team to review practices in each of the target areas. When participants successfully complete the evaluation, they receive the Certified Green Business status for a three-year period, with the option to continue renewing in future years. This certification comes with incredible promotional perks that set the business apart as an environmental leader in the community. In addition to the long-term financial savings, they will receive free technical assistance, green business marketing materials, public promotion as a green business, and more! Becoming a Certified Green Business requires an initial investment from the business, particularly in regards to labor, and the financial benefits aren’t typically realized until after the implementation of a comprehensive program. These benefits include reduced garbage, water and energy bills. The City of Napa Water Conservation and Recycling programs recognize the importance of green businesses in the City and have recently teamed up to provide a stipend award that provides $500 to those that successfully complete the Certified Green Business Process. According to Pat Costello, City of Napa Water Resources Analyst, “It’s our hope that we can help encourage more businesses to improve their practices by easing some of the costs that may be incurred during implementation of the program.” According to Costello, “The City has established a goal of reducing per capita water use by 2020. Water conservation by commercial businesses plays a big role in helping us to achieve this goal.” Likewise, the State of California and City of Napa Recycling Division have established a goal to divert 75% of garbage from landfill disposal also by 2020. The City’s generous stipend program went into effect in July of this year following the Napa City Council’s desire to meet the 2020 goals, and reach out and reward local businesses that may be considering participating in the Certified Green Business Program. Once a business becomes certified, this doesn’t necessarily signify the end. Many continue to find creative and cost-saving ways to reduce waste and save even more water and energy. Some have been known to provide incentives to employees who choose to bike to work and rebates to those who purchase hybrid vehicles. For this reason, the City of Napa is also providing all renewing green businesses in the city limits with a $500 stipend for their continued efforts. Funding is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. With this in mind, City staff encourages businesses to take advantage of this very worthwhile program and become recognized environmental leaders in their community. For more information about the Certified Green Business Stipend Program, please contact Associate Program Planner Danielle Schmitz at (707) 259-5968 or dschmitz@nctpa.net. To find local green businesses you may want to visit and support, go to www.greenbusinessesca.org.
NVLife_NovDec_2013
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