Sustainable Practices Key

As you are using this online directory note the following program icons to see how each business is increasing its stewardship of our community. Let owner's know you care about the commitments they're making for the health of our community. Click on any of the links to read more about each program.

Community Energy Challenge participants are improving energy efficiency in their businesses by participating in this program that provides a detailed analysis of energy use, full assessment, facility action plan, assistance with rebates, financing options, and quarterly progress updates.

Bellingham Green Power Participants have signed up to purchase a percentage of their power as Green Power (solar, wind, and local cow power) making Bellingham one of the leading EPA recognized Green Power Communities in the nation with 12% of our electricity coming from ‘green’ sources.

Whatcom Watershed Business Pledge is a voluntary polution-prevention program developed by Whatcom County’s Department of Ecology to help reduce the solid and hazardous waste and water pollution created by businesses. More than 500 businesses have taken the pledge.

Eat Local First: Food buying businesses take the Eat Local First pledge, agreeing to shift more of their food budgets annually to items from local farmers and producers. All businesses can sign up for Workplace CSA farm shares and enjoy the convenience of fresh, nutritious foods delivered to work.

Toward Zero Waste aims at reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, increase reuse and recycling of existing resources, and increase purchasing of recycled and environmentally preferable products. This icon identifies businesses that have committed to reducing their waste by 50% or more.

Whatcom Smart Trips Employer Partners educate their employees, support their efforts and provide incentives for employees to make more of their trips by walking, bicycling, sharing rides and riding the bus.

EnviroStars is a regional program that certifies businesses for their efforts to prevent pollution in industries that typically generate hazardous waste. EnviroStars is a joint effort of Whatcom County Public Works Department of Solid Waste Division and the regional EnviroStars Cooperative and Puget Soundkeeper Alliance.

For more information about how you can become involved in any of these programs contact us at 360 647-7093 or Mariah@sconnect.org.