Napa Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that they are now certified as a Bay Area Green Business. The Bay Area Green Business Program verifies that businesses meet higher standards of environmental performance. Its partnership of government agencies and utilities helps local businesses comply with all environmental regulations and take actions to conserve resources, prevent pollution, and minimize waste.

The Chamber staff took many conservation measures in order to achieve the certification. The building on 1556 First Street is owned by the Chamber and some simple improvements were made to the south side of the building which faces First Street. A heat blocking film was installed on the windows, with the help of Pacific Gas & Electric, to cut down on the amount of outside heat that could enter the building. In addition, the Chamber began using CFL bulbs, changed to LED Emergency light signage, and put into practice water and office waste policies. Beginning early this year the Chamber trimmed its twice monthly printed Hot Sheet direct mailing to once a month and added the new E-Sheet program that emails member advertising in its place.

“The process of completing the many pages of checklist items seems difficult at first glance,” said Executive Vice President, Lisa Batto, “however, once you really start to look at the items you are already doing in day to day operations it really is quite easy to complete. The point of the program is to look at new areas where you can improve conservation. The benefit of green practices is the green you save each year by spending less on paper, water, electricity and so much more.”

The Program was developed by Bay Area local governments in collaboration with US EPA, Cal EPA Department of Toxic Substances Control and the business community. The Association of Bay Area Governments coordinates the Program, which is implemented by Green Business Coordinators in 9 participating counties. The regional and local programs are funded by their partners, including local and regional government agencies, utilities, special districts and nonprofit organizations that promote environmental compliance, pollution prevention and resource conservation. Some funding also comes from government and non-profit foundation grants.

The Napa Chamber of Commerce has dedicated its Green Business Directory on www.napachamber.com to promote members who are Green Certified or Green Minded Businesses. A growing number of consumers specifically request businesses that are proactive in green practices, which contribute to a healthy and sustainable environment.

For more information on earning a certificate for your business please contact Napa County’s Green Business Program Manager, Danielle E. Sinclair at dsinclair@co.napa.ca.us or by phone (707) 259-8631.