From its humble start as a grassroots demonstration back in 1970, Earth Day
has grown into worldwide phenomena with participants from more than 170
countries. On April 22 each year, individuals and organizations across the globe
and every corner of the Internet take action to protect and improve the environment.Earth Day has become more than a
matter of personal choice and government policy — and much more than a token nod to public relations — as smart businesses and associations are seeing the very real benefits of going genuinely green.
Socially responsible businesses are committed to learning and
educating themselves, each other, and society as a whole; while making
continual improvements in the way they operate… Ultimately, sustainable business is good business. ~ Green To Gold Business Network
As we mark Earth Day 2009, it’s a pleasure to celebrate just a few
of the worthy organizations who use their Wild Apricot websites to help carry out
their Earth-friendly missions all year round, moving our consumer society toward a more sustainable future:
The Hawaii Ecotourism Association
works to protect Hawaii’s unique environment and culture through the
promotion of responsible travel and educational programs relating to
ecotourism. Specifically, they advocate for small group, low-impact tours that are
culturally and environmentally sensitive, and recognize tourism operations and travel writers who exemplify those ideals.
Meanwhile, the Hawaii chapter of the US Green Building Council
works to promote ecological stewardship and leadership in the building
industry of those environmentally sensitive islands, through sustainable planning, design, and
construction. (Other USGBC chapters carry out a similar mission across other regions of the United States, including South Florida and the North Carolina Triangle.)
In Colorado, the Boulder Green Building Guild
brings together building professionals who are dedicated to promoting
healthier, resource-efficient homes and workplaces. The association’s
mission is “to advance the craft of green building; support our
members’ environmentally-responsible endeavors; provide effective
volunteer opportunities; and be the focal point for communication on
green building” — to empower people to build healthy,
resource-efficient communities.
The Green Resource Center For Alabama, similarly, provides information and resources to help homeowners, industry professionals and policymakers learn about design, construction and maintenance practices for environmentally sustainable living.
On a global scale, the International Society for Industrial Ecology helps to connect scientists, engineers, policymakers,
managers and advocates who want to discover better ways of integrating environmental
concerns with economic activities. The group promotes the use of
industrial ecology in research, education, policy, community
development, and industrial practices to find innovative
solutions for complex environmental problems.
We envision a better world as a result of quicker application of
sustainable business practices, and we want to help bring the people,
ideas, and resources together to facilitate advancement [in sustainable technology]. ~ Green Valley Network
What other examples of green business iniatives and education have you noticed lately? How is your own community, company, or non-profit organization planning to celebrate Earth Day? Leave us a comment to share the green news!
