When your business generates waste, that's money out the door. Anything you put in the trash is a resource you paid for at some point. Reducing waste and increasing efficiency means saving your business money. But where do you start?
What is the Marion Sustainable Business Network?
The Marion Sustainable Business Network is a FREE environmental assistance program offered to businesses in Marion County. Our program staff are available for anything from a quick question to a full-service environmental assessment. We can help with whatever you need to get your business recycling, reducing waste, saving energy, water, and money. All services are customized to meet your business's specific needs.
Why should I join the Marion Sustainable Business Network?
The Marion Sustainable Business Network gives you access to:
- Try Before You Buy Program: We provide FREE access to sustainable alternatives to products you already use before you spend money on them.
- Grant Funds for Sustainability Projects: Grants of up to $15k are available to members each year for sustainability initiatives.
- Rebates, Deals and Upgrades to Save You Money: We find ways for your business to save on environmentally friendly upgrades that save you money. Our TRUE-Certified advisor will let you know when these programs open so you can take advantage!
- Certified TRUE Zero-Waste Advisor: Ask our expert your sustainability questions for free anytime, or get advice on getting TRUE Zero-Waste Certified as a business—a $150/hour value.
- Opportunities to Meet with and Learn from other Sustainable Businesses: Networking events all year long to learn what other businesses are doing to save resources and money so you can get ideas that work.
- Free Entry to the Sustainability Summit
What is Sustainable Business Certification?
Marion Sustainable Business Certification means that your business has taken steps to increase energy efficiency, reduce waste, and engage in sustainable business practices. We share ideas and create opportunities for our members to learn from each other.
Marion Sustainable Business Network Members
How does my Business Become Certified?
Membership is FREE. Businesses must have at least one location in Marion County to be eligible. You can apply in just a few easy steps:
- Apply to be a Sustainable Business
- Complete the sustainability self-assessment at your own pace
- Assessment review with Waste Prevention Coordinator
- Get access to the Marion Sustainable Business Network
- Participate in an audit every 3-5 years (depending on industry)
Some businesses meet the criteria right away. Most find that they need to make changes in their business practices to qualify for certification. Marion Sustainable Business Network staff are available to assist your business with identifying and implementing these changes. You set the pace and priorities.
If you have any questions, contact Rachel VanWoert at rvanwoert@co.marion.or.us
