Environmental Progress - Summer/Fall 2002

Environmental Progress : Summer/Fall 2002

New Green Matters Program Will Recognize Green Leadership

Voluntary program launched in three-county Peoria area.

A voluntary initiative, the Tri-County Green Matters Program, was launched on Earth Day, April 21, 2002, by the IEPA and a consortium of Peoria area government agencies to recognize local facilities for leadership in environmental protection.

Goal of the recognition program is to encourage greater environmental performance in such areas as waste reduction, energy efficiency and resource conservation. Sponsoring the program, in addition to the agency, are the Tazewell County Health Department, Peoria County Solid Waste Management Department, Woodford County Health Department and Illinois Waste Management and Research Center.

Participation is open to any facility, subject to regulations or not, that is willing to do more to protect the environment and be a role model. To qualify, each facility must be located in the Peoria area and commit to making environmental stewardship a top management priority. The program is open to businesses in the commercial, manufacturing and service sectors, as well as government and non-profit institutions. So far, 14 facilities have joined, ranging from a metal fabricator to a high school and to a specialty bakery (see box).

The Green Matters Program has three levels of participation. The more proactive facilities are, the more recognition they receive. Facilities will be recognized as Bronze Level Partners when they commit to developing an environmental improvement program. Facilities that have established an environmental program and are making progress in reducing waste and using resources efficiently will be recognized as either Silver or Gold Level Partners.

All participants will receive certificates of commendation and recognition and be listed in a green business directory and website. Silver and Gold Level Partners will receive window emblems to display their environmental status for promotional purposes. Gold Level Partners will receive additional publicity through press releases and success story articles. Participants are also eligible to receive free on-site assistance.

The Green Matters Program will host quarterly events to recognize new members and provide speakers on environmental topics. Presentations on fluorescent bulbs and electronics recycling have already been given. Seminars on energy efficiency and compliance issues are being planned.