So you've started recycling, cut down on paper use by switching to electronic records and replaced those incandescent light bulbs with energy efficient fixtures.
But what exactly is a "green" business and who decides what's eco-friendly?
Tampa officials are hoping to shed some light on those questions by partnering with The Sustany Foundation Inc., a nonprofit environmental consulting firm, to establish a set of environmental standards for "green" businesses and "certify" them on a grading system.
The goal of the proposed Green Business Designation Program - pending approval by the city council on Thursday - is to get corporations and convenience stores across the city to adopt environmentally sustainable practices and encourage others to follow suit.
"This is a great way to recognize and encourage environmentally sustainable behavior within our business community," said Tampa Councilwoman Linda Saul-Sena.
There's no financial award for receiving green certification, but environmentalists say helping the environment will save business owners a lot of money in the long-run.
Businesses will be reviewed on the following criteria: recycling and waste reduction, energy conservation, water conservation and pollution and must gain a minimum of 40 points, including "basic points" in each category, to receive the "green" certification.
Yearly fees to participate in the program would range from, $180 to $1,000, depending on the size of the business. The money generated would pay for administrative costs.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement
Advertisement