Community Spotlight: Manatee Chamber Announced as Finalist for 2013 Sustainable Fla. Best Practice Awards

BRADENTON – In the immortal words of Kermit the Frog, “It’s not easy being green.” But, the Manatee Chamber of Commerce is doing something to encourage and recognize local businesses for doing just that – going green - and their efforts are being rewarded. Sustainable Florida has chosen the Manatee Chamber of Commerce as a finalist for its 2013 Sustainable Florida Best Practice Awards in the Non-Profit category. The winners will be announced on October 30, 2013 at the Working on the Green Sustainability Summit in Orlando.

The Manatee Chamber’s “Sustainable Manatee: Green Business” certification program, which was nominated as a Best Practice, gives special recognition to businesses and organizations that are making concerted, deliberate efforts to implement sustainable business practices. To date, 17 business have been certified through the Manatee Chamber’s program. All have completed a rigorous review and documentation of their business practices in the areas of recycling, energy conservation, water conservation, commodity conservation and innovative concepts.

“So many business leaders are making great effort to implement sound and sustainable business practices,” said Neil Spirtas, the Manatee Chamber’s Vice President of Public Policy & Small Business. “It matters. It takes all of us – businesses, residents, and government – working together to ensure the fantastic quality of life we enjoy now is here tomorrow, too. And, often these sustainable business practices save money, which is a win-win.”

The Best Practice Awards recognize businesses, organizations and individuals for their dynamic work in helping to create sustainable Florida. Judges were experienced and knowledgeable in the fields of sustainability, energy, engineering, green building, corporate social responsibility and government. Sustainable Florida Best Practice Award winners are promoted as examples of Best Practices in the state.

For more information, visit sustainableflorida.org/best-practice-awards/2013-awards.