EarthWISE Business Assistance Program
What are the EarthWISE focus areas?
Recycling
Waste reduction and prevention
Environmentally preferable purchasing
Energy efficiency and conservation
Water pollution prevention
Outreach and education
What does EarthWISE stand for?
The WISE in EarthWISE stands for Workplace Initiative for Sustainable Enterprise.
My business wants to be “green” but we don’t know where to start. We don’t even recycle.
That’s okay! The purpose of the EarthWISE program is to move businesses towards more environmentally friendly business practices, no matter the starting point. A great place to start is to schedule an EarthWISE environmental assessment for your business. An EarthWISE program staff person will conduct the assessment and assist you, your business, and your co-workers in identifying and implementing changes that will save your business money and protect the environment.
How does my business become EarthWISE Certified?
To obtain EarthWISE certification businesses must meet the criteria outlined in the EarthWISE certification application. Some businesses meet criteria right away. Most businesses, however, find that they need to make changes in their business practices to qualify for certification. An EarthWISE program staff member is available to assist your business with identifying and implementing these changes or your business can choose to identify and implement changes on your own. Regardless, once your business feels confident that it has met the EarthWISE certification criteria you will need to fill out the EarthWISE certification application and fax, email, or mail it in. Once your application has been received, an EarthWISE program staff person will contact you to set up an on-site certification assessment. For more information or questions about becoming an EarthWISE certified business contact Marion County Public Works- Environmental Services at 503-566-4159.
Where do I send my EarthWISE certification application?
Completed applications can be submitted in three ways:
- Fax to 503-588-3565, Attention Rachel VanWoert
- Email to Rachel VanWoert at RVanWoert@co.marion.or.us
- Mail to Marion County Public Works-Environmental Services
Attn: Rachel VanWoert
5155 Silverton Road NE
Salem, OR 97305
How long will my business be EarthWISE certified?
EarthWISE certification will be valid for two years from the certification date. Businesses may be EarthWISE Certified indefinitely but must take the steps to re-certify every two years. Businesses interested in re-certification must follow the certification process including resubmitting an application and hosting an on-site assessment and review of the business practices.