Friday, October 16, 2009
The Southwest Times
Go Green NRV workshop held
Peggy White, Executive Director of the Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce, recently facilitated a workshop sponsored by Go Green NRV. The group, with attendees representing various geographic locations throughout the NRV, met at the YMCA in Blacksburg .
Pulaski County was commended for being one of the first locations in the area to formally endorse the Go Green NRV initiative After reviewing information pro- vided by the Go Green NRV Steering Committee in which an update was shared on the Go Green NRV initiative, The Pulaski County Board of Supervisors, at its July 27, 2009 meeting, by unanimous vote, indicated support for the Go Green NRV Initiative. Other early supporters of this effort were the City of Blacksburg and the Town of Radford .
The Mission of the program is “to promote a Green Business Program for businesses in the New River Valley , including modified programs addressing industry specific green initiatives for the various businesses in the Valley.”
Ron Rordam, Mayor of the Town of Blacksburg , encouraged the numerous attendees to go beyond their formal geographical boundaries and work together on this project, which can only benefit us all.
Bob Rogers, President of Architectural Alternatives and Chairman of Go Green NRV, presented a very interesting “photo essay” (about 25 slides from the NRV) focusing on “what is a green business.” Several of the slides showed locations in Pulaski County . A green business participates in environmentally friendly activities and ensures that all operations, products and manufacturing activities address current environmental concerns while still maintaining a profit.
Various members gave a brief expression of why they are involved in- the organization. Gregg Moneyhun discussed ways to be involved, and provided the Go Green NRV Business Program Checklist for anyone interested.
Certificates were presented to several businesses that have already enrolled in the program and had their checklists approved. Refreshments were enjoyed throughout the morning, and drawings were held for several door prizes.
Ms. White thanked the following workshop sponsors:
YMCA at VT;
Sustainable Blacksburg ;
Architectural Alternatives, Inc.;
Draper Aden Associates, Inc.;
Mill Mountain Coffee & Tea (Scott Elich);
Natasha's Market Cafe;
Shelter Alternatives;
VT Corporate Research Center ; and the
Town of Blacksburg
In a private interview prior to the workshop, in which the discussion centered around how much there is to be done in the “going green” movement, Ms. White shared one of her favorite quotations.
Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
If you are interested in learning more about Go Green NRV and/or would like for your business to participate, please e-mail info@gogreennrv.com
