Greensurfshop, I commend you for all of your efforts thus far - it sounds like you've done a great job so far of implementing sustainability practices - congrats! The initiatives you mentioned are included as part of a green business certification program, and dozens of others. Of course I am a bit of a biased party, but I do think that our members find tremendous value in earning a green certification, they can progress their sustainability efforts, realize cost savings AND be able to market themselves with a third-party recognition and seal. There are some government programs you can go after - not as many as if you owned the building but there are incentives for bicycles, employee programs, and for demonstrating higher energy efficiency. Feel free to visit the Green Business Bureau by visiting gbb.org and emailing us I can send you a whitepaper we've put together. Hope it's useful and let me know any way I can help or any other questions you may have, Marcos Cordero CEO Green Business Bureau This post was edited to remove a commercial link. Read our discussion policies for more Community best practices.

What percent are you donating per month? It would be helpful to include a list of charites you support. It would help builder confidence. GT Nail Treatments -- This post was edited to remove a commercial link. Read our discussion policies for more Community best practices.

Congratulations on your business and thank you for your efforts to help others 'go green'. Have you seen Business.gov's Green Certification and Ecolabeling guide? You'll find information on many different certifications that you can obtain that will set your products and business apart. Keep in mind that many seals like the Green Seal* and the Leed Green Building Rating System* are certified by non-profit organizations. Other seals, like the USDA's National Organic Program and the DOE/EPA's Energy Star progam are certified by the federal government.

Nicole,Thank you for those tips! I had not seen those yet until you pointed them out. We are still looking into other seals as well as 70% for the planet. We are still working on growing, so it is tough. Thanks again for your input!

I'm sure there are some and this is a great idea. My advice would be to do your research prior to taking the time and effort with a 'green' group. Make sure that they are well respected and known. Not only will this help your marketing efforts, it will help you learn more about what is referred to as 'green.' A lot of companies claim they are green because it's a good selling point in their opinion. It's quite the opposite and if you are an expert in the field, shout it loud and clear to your audience. Hope this bit of advice helps.