If someone asked you to define the characteristics of a great company, what would your response be? Most people would probably describe features such as quality, reliability, and honesty as well as desirable traits like excellent customer service and competitive pricing. Some might mention other considerations including social responsibility, community service and involvement, and environmental protection. Although these latter qualities may not be in the forefront of consumers’ minds when making purchasing decisions, often times they speak to the integrity of the company and the products and services that it offers. Excellent examples of this idea are companies that seek Green Certification through the California Green Business Program.
The Green Business Program was developed in 1996 by local governments and regional agencies to distinguish small businesses that protect, preserve, and sustain the environment. To earn certification, companies must complete an industry specific worksheet that details their efforts to conserve energy and water, minimize waste, prevent pollution, and shrink their carbon footprints. These efforts are then audited by local agencies that determine whether they meet the standards to receive Green Certification.
Local businesses that have completed the certification process are listed on the Bay Area Green Business website (https://greenbusinessca.org/ContraCostaCounty/) or can be identified by the Green Business Logo often displayed on their websites, marketing materials, and storefronts.
In most instances, being green doesn’t increase a company’s bottom line because it is still a secondary consideration for most buyers. The majority of companies that take the time to work through the checklist do so because they want to be better stewards of the environment and responsible citizens within their communities. Business that are willing to go the extra mile to improve upon themselves and their community should be supported for their efforts and perhaps we should all include this trait when considering the characteristics of a great company.
Mathew Rice
Mathew@Paylesspainting.com