Resource Smart Business Program Invites Local Businesses to Become ‘Resource Smart Certified’

The Resource Smart Business Program (RSBP), a free, voluntary certification program that helps local businesses throughout La Plata County operate more efficiently, is currently seeking businesses interested in making positive changes to improve energy consumption, worksite wellness and overall sustainability in the workplace.

Participating businesses will be guided through a six-step certification process to identify potential areas for improvement, and will be provided with recommendations and education for business owners and employees. Businesses that complete the certification process and implement resource efficiency measures become ‘Resource Smart Certified‘ and receive recognition and promotion for their efforts, including a $1,000 rebate, positive media exposure, promotional materials, and more.

“Working with the RSBP pilot program has enabled us to make smart business decisions for the Coop that not only affect the bottom line, but also our employees, customers and the environment,” commented Joshua Jackson, manager of Durango Natural Foods.

“So far the program has enabled us to convert our refrigeration lighting from T-12 to LED, saving 7,688 KWh and $769 annually. We expect to see a return on this investment in just 24 months.”

In addition to helping local businesses reduce energy consumption to offset rising energy costs, the RSBP enables businesses to reduce operational costs, improve employee wellness, boost brand integrity, and increase profitability. Businesses receive a free comprehensive assessment, valued at $1,500, and recommendations based on individualized needs to improve energy efficiency, wellness for employees, and sustainable business development. The RSBP also provides a list of financial incentives and qualified local contractors to further assist businesses in implementing resource efficiency measures.

The RSBP is a collaboration between Fort Lewis College Environmental Center (FLC EC), Four Corners Office for Resource Efficiency (4CORE), Healthy Lifestyle La Plata (HLLP), Local First, La Plata Electric Association (LPEA), and SWConnect with funding provided by an EPA grant awarded to La Plata County in 2011. As a result, local businesses are able to participate in the RSBP free of charge. A total of 30 businesses are expected to participate and become ‘Resource Smart Certified’ by the end of 2013.

A number of local area businesses are already participating in the RSBP, including Pine River Valley Bank in Bayfield, KSUT Four Corners Public Radio in Ignacio, Durango Natural Foods, Pediatric Associates of Durango, Durango Coffee Company, Brown's Sport Shoe, Animas Museum, For the Birds LLC, Gloss, Linda's Local Food Cafe, Backcountry Experience, and Southern Ute Cultural Center & Museum.

“We’d like to thank current business participants for making our pilot program a huge success,” said Amanda Saunders, 4CORE Program Coordinator. “Our goal is to elevate the ‘Resource Smart Certification’ program to be recognized and regarded by all La Plata County businesses, employees and consumers as the most highly valued certification among the local business community.”

For more information or to apply for RSBP certification, please visit the website or contact Amanda Saunders with 4CORE at (970) 259-1916.