Being kind to the environment isn't just the cool thing to do (though these days, it is very hip). There's a reason why so much SRED (scientific research and experimental development) is devoted to ways of reducing fossil fuel dependency and being kinder to the environment - because if we don't our future is going to be a lot hotter and a lot less conducive to the growing of food crops. The city of Boise recognizes that the future is important, so they've instituted the Enviroguard Awards.
The Enviroguard program is administered by the Boise, Idaho department of public works and it honors businesses for their commitment to preserving and improving the natural environment. The purpose of the award is to make an example of those manufacturers of industrial valves and office building owners who have already gone green so that others may follow in their footsteps.
There is a perception that going green is damaging to the company bottom line (since greener products usually cost a bit more) but part of the Enviroguard program's purpose is to prove this untrue. If you visit the "case studies" section of the Enviroguard program website at www.cityofboise.org/Departments/Public_Works/EnvironmentalResourceCenter, you'll find that in many cases taking environmentally positive steps actually saved many companies money on such expenses as electricity, water, and heat. Additionally, having the Enviroguard Award official seal for your commercial mortgage brokerage firm increases your appeal to environmentally minded customers.
To apply to be considered for the Enviroguard Award, your business must be utilizing unique or creative approaches to waste reduction, pollution prevention, water and energy conservation, or using sustainable products such as Fair Trade sheet lead. Your business must also have been established in Boise for at least a year. Simply fill out the online application and the program administrators will be around to do a site survey. Several awards are handed out each year.
What do you get for winning? No get out of debt free card from bankruptcy lawyers in Los Angeles, unfortunately. But you will get a commemorative plaque that you can display proudly in your offices, a presentation ceremony with the mayor, a banner advertising your commitment and a case study done for the city website. All of this is great for bringing new and innovating businesses to the attention of the public and other businesses. It's like free publicity for doing something that benefits both you and the environment. So it's win-win-win, really!
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