Green Business Program
The Johnson County Green Business Program (JCGBP) is a voluntary and nonregulatory program that provides free educational outreach and technical assistance on a variety of environmental management practices to businesses throughout Johnson County.
Purpose
Seeking certification from Johnson County's Green Business Program indicates your organization has made a commitment to the environment and our community.
The Green Business Program was developed to recognize organizations that have adopted sustainability initiatives throughout their operation. The program is managed by the solid waste program of the Johnson County Department of Health and Environment (JCDHE), who verify businesses are upholding their commitment to sustainability.
JCDHE intends to ensure certified businesses and organizations maintain integrity and are authentic in their actions and results. The program evaluates organizations operations based on sustainability management actions applicable to them. Businesses achieving certification will be certified for a two-year period and are expected to uphold their sustainability practices on a daily basis.
By obtaining certification, we are confident your business will reap the economic and environmental benefits of the sustainable practices you pursue. Environmentally aware consumers are seeking to do business with organizations that mirror their concern for the protection of our environment and the responsible use of our resources.
Our goal is to recognize businesses which exhibit verifiable sustainable practices and work to connect them with consumers who seek them. It is JCDHE's vision that businesses, schools and other entities who earn certification will save money, assist in protecting the future of our community and are recognized for their efforts.
Program Areas
Candidates for the Green Business Program must report completion of specific sustainability initiatives in the following areas:
- Waste
- Energy
- Water
- Community
- Transportation
- Natural Systems
Some of the six areas vary by industry, but all have minimum requirements in order to achieve certification. In addition, there is an innovation section for businesses that creatively elevate their sustainability efforts. Completing a Free Sustainability Consultation from JCDHE can serve as a starting point.
Program Benefits
For many leading companies, green business is synonymous with good business. Adopting policies, programs, and products to improve the sustainability of their operations not only benefits the environment, they provide a variety of immediate cost-saving opportunities and long-term financial benefits.
No matter the size of the business, you can take steps to reduce your daily waste, energy and water usage. Small changes can add up to big savings and can attract and retain environmentally conscious customers. Johnson County Department of Health and Environment staff are here to help and offer regular updates on green business opportunities and trends. Businesses that achieve certification will receive the following benefits:
- Official logo usage and Certificate Plaque to display prominently
- Green Business Partnership directory listing
- Free waste and energy audits
- Community recognition and media exposure
- Cost savings
- Healthier work environment
- Increased productivity
- Networking opportunities
- Highlighted on the Johnson County website
- Recognition at the annual Green Business Certification and Awards Ceremony
Frequent Questions
How long is my certification valid for?
Certification is valid for 2 years from the date of confirmation.
Is there a cost for participation?
No. Seeking certification is free for Johnson County businesses and organizations.
Is participation in the Waste Diversion Assistance Program required for certification?
No. An organization may seek certification independent of participating in the Waste Diversion Assistance Program. There are several benefits of participating in the Waste Diversion Assistance Program and can increase the amount of points you earn in the certification process, but it is not a prerequisite for pursuing Green Business Certification status.
Are organizations like religious institutions and non-profit organizations eligible for certification?
Yes. Most institutions are eligible for office/retail certification assuming their operations are similar to an office environment. If you have questions about your eligibility, please contact Eric Nelson, 913-715-6981.
We are a business that leases space. Can we get credit for actions the property manager/owner is taking independent of our actions?
Yes, you made the decision to be a tenant at your location, so take credit for the good things your property manager/owner is doing. Encourage and help them to make more environmentally beneficial improvements and get more credit on your application!
Does certification cover all aspects of, and the environmental impacts from, a business’ operations?
No. The scope of certification is limited to the areas covered on the assessment (waste, energy, water, engagement, transportation, natural systems and innovation) and to applicable locations and/or activities conducted in Johnson County. For example, a business that has an office in Johnson County, but does manufacturing outside the County, could certify its Johnson County office, but not the manufacturing facility. Non-Johnson County locations can receive assistance from either Mid-America Regional Council.