GREEN BUSINESS CERTIFICATION

Transcription

1 GREEN BUSINESS CERTIFICATION 2012 Before completing the checklist, please make sure you have registered your company or organization at

2 Table of Contents Introduction Background Information Instructions General Standards for All Businesses a. Compliance Checks b. Recertification c. Monitoring and Tracking d. Community Involvement and Employee Wellness e. Education and Awareness 2. Energy Efficiency & Conservation a. Compliance Checks b. Heating and Air c. Maintenance d. Renewable Energy e. Lighting f. Computer/Electronic Practices g. Education and Awareness 3. Water Efficiency & Conservation a. Compliance Checks b. Kitchens/Restrooms c. Outdoors/Landscapes d. Education and Awareness 4. Solid Waste Reduction & Recycling a. Compliance Checks b. Paper Reduction c. General Waste Reduction, Recycling and Reuse d. Electronic Waste e. Education and Awareness 5. Pollution Prevention a. Compliance Checks b. Stormwater Management c. Chemical Pollution Prevention d. Indoor Air Quality e. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction f. Education and Awareness 6. Sustainable Purchasing a. Compliance Checks b. Recycled Content c. Purchasing d. Education and Awareness 7. Green Building Design & Materials a. Compliance Checks b. Design c. Policies d. Education and Awareness Addendum

3 Introduction Kern Green was established through Don t Trash Me, a local non-profit committed to protecting the environment through education and awareness. Kern Green works with residents, schools, businesses and other local non-profits to demonstrate the social, economic and environmental benefits of integrating green practices in daily work and professional life. Many of the criteria in the Green Business Certification Checklist not only benefit our surroundings - they hold promise of increased efficiency and greater profit. Kern Green added the Green Business Certification to offer a structured program that provides free tools, resources, and technical support for businesses that seek a targeted approach to greening their operations above and beyond compliance with regulations. Businesses meeting or exceeding the criteria can become Kern County Certified Green Businesses. Kern Green s Green Business Program provides checklists to businesses interested in becoming green, resources to help them get there, certifies businesses through on-site evaluation, and highlights these businesses in the community through marketing and outreach. Earning the Kern County Certified Green Business recognition means that you have made a commitment to your staff, customers, community, and the future success of your business - a commitment to protect, preserve and improve Kern County air, water and environment. 3

4 Background Information Please complete the following information: Business Name Contact Person Phone Address 1.Do you: OWN your space LEASE your space 2. Year building was built Don t Know 3.How long have you been in current building Don t Know 4.Exterior material of building (e.g. concrete, brick, wood) 5.Total square feet of office 6.Number of Floors 7.Number of: Full-time Employees Part-time Employees 8.Number of offices (separated by walls, with a door) 9.Number of cubicle or open area desk spaces 10. Number of bathrooms (not including outside your office space) 11. Number of kitchens/break areas 12. Number of conference rooms 13. Server room: Yes No 14. Do you pay for your energy source? Yes No 15. Who are your service providers? 16. Do you pay for your water/garbage? Yes No 17. Who collects your recycling? 4

5 Instructions The Green Business Certification Checklist is designed to guide you through green business practices that target various sustainability measures. The checklist is comprised of the following sections: General Standards for All Businesses Energy Efficiency & Conservation Water Efficiency & Conservation Solid Waste Reduction & Recycling Pollution Prevention Sustainable Purchasing Green Building Design & Materials Within each section, there are Compliance Checks, which are mandatory for all businesses. Each section also includes subject-specific categories, and education and awareness measurements where businesses must complete a minimum number of compliance measures, but they are able to pick which measures to complete. Work through the checklist to complete the necessary measurements to become a Green Certified Business. There is space provided for each measurement to designate whether that measurement is Not Applicable to your Business, Yes (already Implemented), No (Not Yet Implemented) and Goal (Will implement to reach GBC) to help keep track of your progress. The faster you complete the checklist, the faster you become a Certified Green Business. Once you have finished the required measures, submit your checklist by to info@kerngreen.org. Once Kern Green receives your checklist, a Program Evaluator will contact you to schedule a verification appointment. Once your checklist has been verified, you will receive an official Kern Green Certified green Business seal to display on electronic and print materials as we all as a sticker to display in your window. Your business must re-certify on a yearly basis. 5

6 General Standards NA = Not Applicable Y = Yes (Already Implemented) N = No (Not Yet Implemented) G = Goal (Will Implement to Reach GBC) General Standards for All Businesses Ref # Compliance Checks Requirement NA Y N G 1a.1 Business has no significant health violations If applicable 1a.2 In compliance with storm water related requirements If applicable 1a.3 In compliance with wastewater related requirements (POTW) If applicable 1a.4 In compliance with air quality regulations (APCD) If applicable 1a.5 In compliance with Fire Department regulations If applicable 1a.6 In compliance with ADA regulations If applicable *We strongly recommend that your business is in compliance with these regulations. agencies to answer questions Work with your local regulatory Ref # Recertification Requirement NA Y N G 1b.1 Pledge continuous improvement in green business practices Recommended Must Complete 6/18 Measures Ref # Monitoring and Tracking Requirement NA Y N G 1c.1 1c.2 Establish baselines for any green actions (water reduction, energy reduction, waste diversion, etc. to-date to track and report on successes Track total waste diverted from landfill through recycling, donating and composting Ref # Community Involvement and Employee Wellness Requirement NA Y N G 1d.1 1d.2 Donate a percentage of profits to organizations that promote awareness of environmental issues Coordinate with environmentally or socially responsible organizations or groups to raise awareness, directly benefit a community, and/or the environment 6

7 General Standards 1d.3 1d.4 1d.5 1d.6 Distribute educational information to customers or the public regarding your efforts (and how they can support them) Develop wellness incentives for employees (e.g. discounts on health insurance for preventative wellness, on-site massage or acupuncture) Offer socially/environmentally responsible investment opportunities as part of retirement plans Develop a green rewards program to recognize employees for their green efforts 1d.7 Offer paid day for volunteering at least once a year Ref # Education and Awareness Requirement NA Y N G 1e.1 Become a Healthy Air Living Parter 1e.2 Inform visitors, clients and/or customers about GBCP (Green Business Certification Program) 1e.3 Encourage one other business in learning about the GBCP 1e.4 1e.5 Develop an eco-team or green captain to coordinate green efforts/ promote continued awareness Develop a green strategy that clearly outlines green policies and goals 1e.6 Host a green orientation for employees at least once a year 1e.7 At new hire orientation - outline green goals and policies Notes: Total 7

8 Energy Efficiency & Conservation 2 Energy Efficiency and Conservation a Ref # Compliance Checks Requirement NA Y N G 2a.1 Conduct energy use assessment* You can conduct your own assessment or hire a professional. See Guidance provided at Mandatory 2a.2 After assessing energy use, analyze quarterly utility consumption for usage spikes and decreases (this will help you determine if energy-reducing practices are impacting usage Mandatory *If your energy is bundled as part of your lease, then provide documentation and complete at least the minimum number of requirements below Must Complete 13/37 Measures b Ref # Heating and Air Requirement NA Y N G 2b.1 Use windows that are double pane, low-e, and energy efficient 2b.2 2b.3 2b.4 2b.5 Apply window film to reduce solar heat gain on clear, singlepane non-northern facing windows Install High Efficiency Heating & Air Conditioning (HVAC) Unit. Look for SEER (Seasonal Energy-Efficiency Rating) of > 13 Install economizers and/or variable frequency drives (VFDs) on an existing AC system to increase efficiency. Use a programmable thermostat. Recommended settings are 78 degrees for cooling and 68 degrees for heating 2b.6 Insulate water heaters, storage tanks, and hot water 2b.7 Use weather stripping to seal air gaps around windows and doors 2b.8 Install or utilize ceiling fans to promote air circulation 2b.9 Set water heater at 120 degrees Fahrenheit 2b.10 Install a solar water heater 8

9 Energy Efficiency & Conservation 2b.11 Convert hot water heaters to on-demand systems 2b.12 Plant a shade tree to the West or Southwest side of the building to decrease energy needed to cool the exterior 2b.13 Install awnings on sun-exposed windows c Ref # Maintenance Requirement NA Y N G 2c.1 Replace refrigerators and other large appliances more than 10 years old with Energy Star Models 2c.2 Quarterly maintain all appliances and HVAC systems 2c.3 Quarterly clean and repair air filters, ducts and refrigerator coils d Ref # Renewable Energy Requirement NA Y N G 2d.1 Calculate your company's carbon emissions 2d.2 2d.3 After determining your carbon emissions, purchase carbon offsets. Carbon offsets represent a reduction in emissions somewhere else - like renewable energy or a reforestation project - to balance out emissions you can not reduce Obtain a percentage of your energy from renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, fuel cells or geothermal e Ref # Lighting Requirement NA Y N G 2e.1 2e.2 2e.3 2e.4 Lights should be one of the following: Fluorescent T8 or T5; Compact Fluorescent, LED, or Energy Saving Halogen Lamps Replace all Exit signs with LED or electroluminescent alternatives Use lighting controls such as dual technology occupancy (motion) sensors, photocells, or time clocks. This is especially good in low traffic rooms such as restrooms, conference rooms, closets and break areas Require that lights be turned off when not in use (except for emergency lights) 2e.5 Reduce number of lamps per fixture where appropriate 2e.6 Clean light fixtures and lamps regularly 2e.7 Arrange workspaces to take advantage of natural light 9

10 Energy Efficiency & Conservation 2e.8 Install skylights or solar tubes 2e.9 2e.10 Contract janitorial services during the day instead of night to reduce need for lighting after work hours Close curtains, shades and blinds at night, during unoccupied periods of the day and on weekends to maintain comfortable room temperatures Ref # Computer Equipment and Electronics Requirement NA Y N G 2f.1 At least half of all office computers are laptops 2f.2 Set computers to idle after 15 minutes or if larger business use power management system or software program to automatically activate power management settings in computers and printers Click here for examples 2f.3 Electronics are turned off nightly and plugged into energy saving devices such as power strips that can be turned off or smart strips, which automatically manage energy use 2f.4 Set refrigerator temperature between 38F and 41F and freezer between 10F and 20F 2f.5 More than half of electronics, computers, etc. are Energy Star, EPEAT or other energy efficiency rating. Ensure that Energy Star settings are enabled. 2f.6 Use sensors on vending machines and recommend placing machines in shaded areas Ref # Education and Awareness Requirement NA Y N G 2g.1 Post signage reminding employees to turn off and unplug all lights and electronic appliances when not in use 2g.2 Hold training for staff on energy conservation practices at least once a year 2g.3 Obtain gas and electric utility consumption for last three years 2g.4 Track and post monthly utility consumption and/or bills for employees to view Notes: Energy Tips Energy Rebates Total 10

11 Water Efficiency & Conservation 3 Water Efficiency and Conservation Ref # Background Information Requirement NA Y N G 3.1 Do you have a restroom? Question 3.2 Do you have a kitchen? Question 3.3 Are you responsible for your outdoor landscape? Question a Ref # Compliance Checks Requirement NA Y N G 3a.1 3a.2 Learn how to read your water bill so that you can review it monthly and check for indications of leaks or other problems causing usage spikes Develop a regular schedule to check for and repair all drips and leaks - more info Mandatory Mandatory Must Complete 5/22 measures (complete 5 measures if you answered yes to questions 3.1 through 3.3; complete 3 measures if you answered yes to two out of three questions between 3.1 and 3.3; completee 2 measure if you answered yes to one question between 3.1 and 3.3; complete no measures if you answered no to alll questions) b Ref # Kitchens/Restrooms Requirement NA Y N G 3b.1 3b.2 Use water efficient aerators: 1.5 gpm (gallons per minute) for lavatory sinks and 2.2 gpm for kitchen sinks Use high efficiency toilets (HET) gpf (gallons per flush) or less 3b.3 Use water efficient toilets gpf or less 3b.4 Use water efficient non-flushing or 0.5 gpf urinals 3b.5 Filter water in-house and do not stock individual bottled water (filtered water may be a whole system, pitcher, faucet attachment, or water service) 3b.6 Run dishwashers only when full 11

12 Water Efficiency & Conservation c Ref # Outdoors/Landscape Requirement NA Y N G 3c.1 Clean all outdoor areas with a broom and damp mop instead of a hose 3c.2 Install rain barrels or rain gardens outside of building 3c.3 Install bioswales in parking lots 3c.4 Use a grey-water recycling system - more info 3c.5 3c.6 3c.7 3c.8 3c.9 3c.10 Use drought resistant native plant species or create rock gardens - more info Irrigate during early morning hours (midnight to 5am) to decrease water loss from evaporation Use a smart irrigation controller to automatically adjust according to current weather conditions Adjust irrigation times and durations with the seasons, at least monthly Avoid runoff and unnecessary water usage by directing sprinkler water to landscaped areas Apply 2-3 inches of mulch or use ground cover around landscape plants to prevent evaporation 3c.11 Send vehicles to water recycling or waterless carwash 3c.12 Change window cleaning schedule to "as needed" 3c.13 Leave grass clippings on mowed turf (grass-recycling) rather than disposing 3c.14 Shut off water-cooled air conditioning units when not needed d Ref # Education and Awareness Requirement NA Y N G 3d.1 Post signs in restrooms to encourage water conservation 3d.2 Notes: Post signs reminding employees to turn off water while rinsing or washing dishes or during food preparation Total 12

13 Solid Waste Reduction & Recycling 4 Solid Waste Reduction and Recycling a Ref # Compliance Checks Requirement NA Y N G 4a.1 4a.2 4a.3 Conduct a solid waste assessment to identify ways to reduce waste and increase recycling (note: assessment should include hazardous waste and identifying ways to reduce the use of hazardous waste and replace with non-toxic products) - Business Guide Develop and implement a policy for disposing of all hazardous waste based on the guidelines from Kern County's Business Hazardous Waste Disposal Requirements You may also call to schedule an appointment or get additional information. Report to Kern County or the City of Bakersfield on recycling efforts as stated by the California Mandatory Commercial Recycling Law Must Complete 9/27 Measures Mandatory Mandatory If applicable b Ref # Paper Reduction Requirement NA Y N G 4b.1 Reuse paper for printing drafts and memos 4b.2 4b.3 4b.4 4b.5 4b.6 4b.7 Set double-sided printing as the default on all printers and copying machines Use a paperless document delivery system such as intranet system, or paperless fax Manage junk mail by taking your company's name off unwanted lists or using a service to remove name from unwanted solicitations (See Kern Green's Stop Junk Mail Kit) Use online accounting and payroll programs to reduce printed paper Use only electronic versions of employee handbooks and provide other employee information on the company intranet or share folder Order supplies by , online or voic instead of order forms 13

14 Solid Waste Reduction & Recycling 4b.8 Require vendors to deliver supplies in re-usable containers 4b.9 Centralize employee schedules and announcements in a single location (online, company memo or bulletin board) to reduce printed copies c Ref # General Waste Reduction, Recycling and Reuse Requirement NA Y N G 4c.1 4c.2 4c.3 Identify a Kern County Recycling Provider or drop-off center and create an office recycling program based on items collected by that provider or center. Provide individual recycling bins at each employee workspace for recycling paper Locate clearly marked recycling bins with information about what can be recycled in all public areas such as kitchens, conference and meeting rooms, warehouses and outdoor spaces 4c.4 Use refilled or remanufactured laser and copier toner cartridges 4c.5 Recycle toner cartridges at end of use 4c.6 4c.7 4c.8 Set up an organic waste composting system. See guidance for whether your office is a good candidate Recycle all paper products including phone books, newspapers, magazines, brochures, etc Provide permanent serving ware plates, bowls, cups, mugs, utensils) for food and beverages consumed in the office 4c.9 Eliminate all polystyrene-based products (e.g. Styrofoam) 4c.10 Purchase used or refurbished office equipment and furniture 4c.11 Donate, sell or exchange unwanted but usable items (furniture, office supplies, electronics) 4c.13 Update mailing lists to avoid sending undeliverable mail 4c.14 4c.15 Install hand dryers in restrooms or offer cloth towels to eliminate need for paper towels Retailers -- eliminate the use of plastic bags. Offer durable, reusable bags at checkout or 100% recycled content paper bags. 14

15 Solid Waste Reduction & Recycling 4c.17 Retailers -- offer an incentive for customers who bring their own shopping bags, coffee mugs, etc. an/or use a disincentive such as charging a fee for disposable containers and bags 4c.18 Reuse paper or plastic packing materials in your own shipments 4c.19 For catered events (lunches, meetings, etc.) institute a zero waste policy. If disposable dish ware is necessary, use recyclable/compostable options and have the composting/ recycling collection easily accessible d Ref # Education and Awareness Requirement NA Y N G 4d.1 4d.2 Post signs in restrooms, kitchen and break areas to remind staff to choose reusable items Designate a space for employees to put paper where only one side has been utilized. Post signs encouraging employees to use that paper for drafts or informal documents Notes: Total 1 15

16 Pollution Prevention 5 Pollution Prevention a Ref # Compliance Checks Requirement NA Y N G 5a.1 Recycle used motor oil, solvents, and/or greases, if applicable Mandatory 5a.2 Routinely clean liter, including cigarette butts, from areas surrounding your facility Must Complete 7/33 Measures Mandatory b Ref # Storm Water Management (If applicable) Requirement NA Y N G 5b.1 5b.2 Locate potential pollutants away from food, service, storage and storm drain areas Routinely check storage areas and equipment for leaks or spills and repair if needed 5b.3 Keep receiving/loading docks free of debris and spills 5b.4 Label storm drains with "No dumping, drains to (Water Body)" 5b.5 Regularly check and clean storm drain openings 5b.6 Use landscaping or barriers to prevent soil erosion c Ref # Chemical Pollution Prevention Requirement NA Y N G 5c.1 5c.2 5c.3 Use only green certified or 100% plant-based cleaning products and/or a certified green cleaning company. We recommend microfiber and HEPA - more info Implement an Integrated Pest Management System - See EPA guidance Replace equipment containing mercury with non-mercury alternatives (such as thermometers, thermostats, gauges, etc. Dispose of mercury - containing equipment properly at hazardous waste 5c.4 Buy chemicals in small quantities and replace only when needed 16

17 Pollution Prevention d Ref # Indoor Air Quality Requirement NA Y N G 5d.1 5d.2 Place welcome mats at the entrance of office or building to reduce unwanted chemicals/dirt from entering Install an advanced ventilation system and proper air exchange system 5d.3 Use only low and zero-voc paints when redecorating 5d.4 Use window treatments, walls, and other finishes that are Greenguard certified ( ) 5d.5 Place air-purifying plants throughout office 5d.6 Discontinue use of aerosol spray deodorizers and disinfectants. Replace with natural scented and natural based products (e.g. essential oils) 5d.7 Ban use of paraffin-based candles or perfumed air fresheners 5d.8 Use non-toxic (water based) ink markers and pens 5d.9 Purchase furniture that is low- or zero-voc e Ref # Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Requirement NA Y N G 5e.1 5e.2 If vehicles are provided or used to deliver services or products, vehicles are either, hybrid, electric, natural gas, fuel cell or other renewable energy Provide bicycles and/or bike racks available for cyclists or short trips 5e.3 Offer preferred parking for alternative fuel vehicles or hybrids 5e.4 Implement a rideshare or carpooling program 5e.5 Subsidize the use of alternative transportation 5e.6 5e.7 Offer telecommuting or a flexible work schedule option - more info Reduce air miles and vehicle miles traveled by conducting meetings via teleconference of videoconference - more info 17

18 Pollution Prevention 5e.8 5e.9 Provide shower facilities to allow employees to take alternative transportation to work Develop a transportation demand management program (see ) 5e.10 Implement a no-idle policy 5e.11 Link trips to accomplish routine errands for your facility in a single outing 5e.12 Business located within half a mile of public transportation f Ref # Education and Awareness Requirement NA Y N G 5f.1 5f.2 Notes: Provide staff and visitors with transit route maps and general transit information Provide information to staff and visitors on how they can reduce pollution personally Total 18

19 Sustainable Purchasing 6 Sustainable Purchasing a Ref # Compliance Checks Requirement NA Y N G 6a.1 Establish a sustainable purchasing policy - more info Mandatory Purchase at least three products with post consumer waste content from the list below b Ref # Purchase Made Recycled Content Requirement NA Y N G 6b.1 Storage bins and containers for recyclables 6b.2 Trash containers 6b.3 Floor mats 6b.4 6b.5 6b.6 6b.7 6b.8 Restroom supplies (paper towels, tissue paper, toilet paper, toilet seat covers) Construction materials when building or remodeling (e.g., paint, carpe, tiles, plastic lumber, picnic tables, playground equipment, fencing, fiberboard insulation, building panels, benches) Office supplies (business cards, envelopes, writing instruments, file folders and other desk accessories) Landscaping/garden supplies (mulch, soil amendments, compost, compost bins, rubber hoses, and outdoor furniture) If purchasing disposable kitchen ware, buy only that made of 100% recycled content or biodegradable/renewable resources (e.g. bamboo, sugar cane, corn) 6b.9 Marketing materials (flyers, brochures, magazines, etc) 6b.10 Recycled content office paper that is at least 30% postconsumer waste (pcw) or FSC Certified - Recommend 100% Must Complete 4/8 Measures c Ref # Purchasing Requirement NA Y N G 6c.1 Print marketing materials using vegetable-based inks 6c.2 6c.3 Buy non-bleached paper products (including coffee filters if used) Contract with vendors that have clear environmental commitment in their operations 19

20 Sustainable Purchasing 6c.4 6c.5 6c.6 Eliminate the use of plastic bags. Use paper bags containing a minimum of 40% post consumer waste recycled content or BPI certified compostable bags Use corrugated or recyclable boards in place of foam core boards Select products with minimal packaging and refill options - work with vendors to do the same 6c.7 Purchase products from local vendors 6c.8 Develop a sustainable food purchasing program - including priority for local, fair trade and organic d Ref # Education and Awareness Requirement NA Y N G 6d.1 Educate staff about purchasing policy and preferred vendors Notes: Total 20

21 Green Building Design & Materials 7 Green Building Design & Materials a Ref # Compliance Checks Requirement NA Y N G 7a.1 When renovating or remodeling, divert waste from the landfill through recycling or donation Must Complete 1/7 Measure Mandatory b Ref # Design Requirement NA Y N G 7b.1 Install a greenroof 7b.2 Install solar panels 7b.3 Use eco-friendly and energy efficient insulation 7b.4 7b.5 Use recycled content, sustainable and/or salvaged materials for interior decor Use flooring that is one or more of the following: FSC-certified, salvaged, renewable, or recycled content, concrete c Ref # Policies Requirement 7c.1 Establish a policy for using green building design and materials for any new construction or renovation (If your office is located in a LEED certified building, then you fulfill this requirement and do not need to complete a measure in this category d Ref # Education and Awareness Requirement NA Y N G 7d.1 Notes: Provide information for staff and visitors about green building features and materials Total 21

22 Addendum Please describe measures you have implemented that are not included in any of the sections above: STATEMENT OF CERTIFICATION All Criteria has been met as of the following date: Signature of Business Represenative: Printed Name: Signature of Authorized Green Business Program Coordinator: 22