Five Companies Recognized for Green Practices
January 24, 2008
COLUMBIA, SC – January 24, 2008 – The City of Columbia has awarded BP Barber and Associates, Carolina Imports, Roof Basket, Sonoco, and Studio 2LR its Green Business Member seal. The Green Business Member program recognizes companies for operating in a more environmentally friendly manner.
“Company executives who begin the process do it because it’s the right thing to do. They soon realize there are other advantages to include creating a better work environment for staff, getting green products in front of customers, and increasing in the bottom-line,” said Missy Gentry, Public Works Director.
The first Green Business Member, Cox and Dinkins, designed and built the first LEED certified building. The newest members have established green teams, replaced standard light bulbs with energy efficient bulbs, quantified their energy and waste reduction savings, replaced conventional products with high levels of volatile organic compounds with environmentally friendly alternatives, and purchase recycled products such as toilet tissue and office paper. Studio 2LR also is working towards a LEED certified expansion.
“It takes commitment to become a Green Business Member. The process, however, is doable. The first step is to visit the website, send an email, or call us to identify a set of goals in four areas: waste reduction and recycling, water conservation, pollution prevention, and energy conservation. After completing one significant goal send us an application form along with a narrative detailing the accomplishments. It’s just simple enough to not turn people away. We even provide technical assistance from beginning end,” said Gentry
The Mayor and City Council congratulate these companies for challenging themselves and their staff to practice green business standards.
Those interested in becoming Green Business Members are invited to the next Green Business Boot Camp scheduled for March 20th at the Village of Sandhills in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce Business Expo.
For more information visit the city’s website www.columbiasc.net.
