New program challenges businesses to improve sustainability

Press release from the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce:

Who:
Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and City of Asheville invite the business community

Speakers:
Mayor Esther Manheimer and Asheville Chamber board member Steve Linton of Deltec Homes

When:       
Tuesday, April 19, 2016 from 8-9 a.m.

Where:    
Regeneration Station, 26 Glendale Avenue Asheville

What:     
Asheville Workplace Challenge Kick-off Event during Business Before Hours
The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the City of Asheville and Duke Energy Progress to launch the Asheville Workplace Challenge, a self-assessment tool that gives guidance to help local businesses save money and reduce their environmental impact.

Why:   
In honor of Earth Day, this kick-off event will introduce the business community to the new program and generate involvement in the Asheville Workplace Challenge. Every day, more than 77,000 people go to a place of work in Asheville. Our workplaces are more than just economic drivers—they are critical in shaping how we live and the impact we have on the community. Through the Asheville Workplace Challenge, businesses can increase awareness of environmental issues and reduce energy use, water consumption and waste. By implementing sustainable practices, businesses can have a positive impact on our community and the environment.

How the Asheville Workplace Challenge works:
Businesses and organizations of all sizes throughout Western North Carolina are encouraged to participate in the Asheville Workplace Challenge. Award winners must be located in Buncombe County.

To participate, businesses complete an online survey assessing current energy and water use, how employees get to work, and what types of waste are generated. This baseline data provides a starting point. Once a business knows how they are performing right now, they’ll get tips to help them save money, increase awareness and become more sustainable. With this knowledge, businesses can complete a range of tasks designed to improve their workplaces and Green Challenge score. Businesses may edit their surveys until the closing date in September, and we will hand out awards in categories in October, 2016 at the first Green Workplace Challenge Awards Ceremony.

By participating in the Asheville Workplace Challenge, businesses can improve their operations and reduce costs. Businesses will also have the opportunity to become part of a larger network with similar sustainability goals that will provide support and recognition along the way. The Workplace Challenge will track company progress and will provide resources to guide companies through their sustainability journey. Optional programs such as lunch-and-learns geared toward specific challenging areas will be offered throughout the process. Participating businesses will have the opportunity to win prizes and receive awards and recognition for their efforts.