Be the change that you want to see in the world. — Mahatma Gandhi
Things do not change; we change. — Henry David Thoreau
What is the Green Business Program?
It is a public promise/commitment made by companies across the greater Philadelphia area to change their daily business practices to reduce impacts on the environment. The commitment focuses on a checklist of green operational practices designed for office users. Once a key leader in your firm has signed the commitment, the firm will be ranked as Basic, Silver, Gold or Platinum based on the number of green practices it has adopted.
Why do it?
Green business practices save money and give you a competitive advantage in a tough business environment – all the while, benefiting our community and our environment. These practices reduce energy consumption, water use, waste generation, and greenhouse gas emissions. And by joining the Green Business Program, your company becomes part of a metropolitan Philadelphia — and global — movement, and will be recognized for its leadership. Moreover, you will have the opportunity to network with the leaders of other like-minded companies. There’s a lot to do, and many lessons and leading edge business practices to be shared!
Whose is it?
The Program was created for businesses by area business leaders, and will expand through their leadership. The Pennsylvania Environmental Council and the PenJerDel Council endorse it, and will provide logistical support. The Green Business Program and website are maintained by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
What are the responsibilities and benefits of being a member?
| Step 1: | “Be the change you want to see.” Sign the Green Business Commitment Letter on the “dotted line,” self-certifying that your company will implement the seven Mandatory Measures and at least 20 additional, Elective Measures within six months of signing the Commitment. |
| Step 2: | Designate a Green Office Advocate or Green Office Committee within your company to direct these efforts. |
| Step 3: | Within six months of signing the Commitment, submit a Self-Certification Report (the Owner Checklist or Tenant Checklist) reflecting implementation of the seven Mandatory Measures and at least 20 additional, Elective Measures. |
| Step 4: | Renew your commitment every 12 months through submission of a Self-Certification Report (the Owner Checklist or Tenant Checklist). |
| Step 5: | Post and/or disseminate your company’s signed Checklist within your company. |
| Step 6: | Post the Green Business Commitment logo wherever it suits you, to declare that you are committed to the program. |
| Step 7: | Share your success stories and questions with other Members of the Green Business Program via the program website and blog, and at future business roundtables. |
| Step 8: | Reap the benefits in cost savings and positive environmental impact. |
| Step 9: | Receive recognition from the region’s business leaders and elected officials. |
How is compliance with the program achieved?
The Greater Philadelphia Green Business Program is a voluntary program in which companies complete the checklist themselves and are therefore self-certified. This relies on the companies’ transparency and disclosure to ensure compliance. There is no third party verification.
For more information, or to sign up, please contact: Patrick Starr at pstarr@pecpa.org or (215) 592-
7020, ext. 108.