Comment Log Display

The California Green Business Program: Government and Small
Businesses Working Together to Create a Green Economy

The California Air Resources Board has done a wonderful job
reaching out to stakeholders and the public to listen to all ideas
and concepts regarding Cap and Trade Proceeds.  I very much
appreciate this opportunity to voice an idea that is shared by 21
local jurisdictions and over 2700 small to medium sized businesses
in California. 

Small businesses collectively play a large role in California. 
They are the largest employer and they have demonstrated a strong
interest in both environmental and community improvement.  Although
small businesses are vital to the California economy, more often
than not they are hit by government fees, inspections, and strict
permit and licensing requirements that are more appropriately
scaled toward larger businesses. One of the few programs that
positively links government and the small business community is the
Green Business Program.  

The Green Business Program incentivizes businesses to improve
environmental performance, while also fostering environmental
awareness amongst their employees and community.  Government run
Green Business Programs provide technical assistance and rebates,
as well as promotion to these Green Businesses.  From Alan Rice
Automotive in Soquel, "We chose to participate in the Green
Business Program because we believe playing an active role in
preserving the environment is an important aspect to conducting
business. We have always paid close attention to minimizing the
impact my business leaves and are now better able to communicate
that to our customers." From Bay Building Janitorial,"We conduct
our business with respect and care for our environment and
implement strategies that achieve the greatest benefit for
everyone. The Green Business Program has proven to be a valued
partner in achieving these goals." From Charlie Hong Kong
Restaurant in Santa Cruz, ""Our intention is to operate our
business in a sustainable manner.  We follow the core values: to
conserve, protect, and respect the environment natural and human. 
We are committed to serving organic food, buying locally grown
produce and using local venders as much as possible.  We appreciate
the recognition and collaboration of other businesses.  Thank you
to the County and City of Santa Cruz for taking on this important
project."

The Green Business Program measures their success through a central
web-based database system.  Approximately 2700 businesses
throughout the state have so far reduced greenhouse gas emissions
by 171,677 tons and saved 38,254,747 kWhrs, among many other
metrics. However, the database and the statewide function of the
Green Business Program was formerly supported by the State
Department of Toxic Substances Control, which is no longer capable
of supporting the program.  Funding is needed to both maintain the
central reporting feature and to continue to foster new Green
Business Program to blossom throughout the state.  

Please consider a mechanism to utilize Cap and Trade proceeds to
fund the California Green Business Program. Direct reporting of GHG
emissions reductions will result, and it will bolster our small
businesses and the communities in which they operate. Thanks very
much for your consideration.