SACRAMENTO - Today the Air Resources Board announced the winners of the CoolCalifornia.org Small Business Awards, recognizing small businesses that demonstrate leadership and make notable, voluntary achievements toward reducing their climate impact.

“These small-business leaders from across the state prove that it only takes a few simple steps to be more sustainable,” said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols.  “Whether it’s running a hotel or providing legal services they each demonstrated that making smart climate-friendly choices is good for the environment and for their bottom line.”

The 16 award winners were selected from 78 competitive applicants, representing a variety of business sectors. These businesses took an array of actions to save money and improve their operations, facilities and practices while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Steps they took include installing compact fluorescent lights, solar panels and energy-efficient computer servers; eliminating toxic chemicals and solvents; using eco-friendly, recycled products; and, installing automated thermostats and light switches.

Five businesses received the Business of the Year award for demonstrating exceptional climate change management practices and communication.  Eleven were acknowledged with the Climate Leader award for taking proactive steps to reduce their impact on our climate and communicating this information to their employees and customers.

The winners come from 15 California cities across the state and represent 13 industries, including manufacturing, hotel/lodging, architecture, property rental, environmental services, legal services, and recycling.

2012 Winners of CoolCalifornia.org Small Business Awards

Businesses of the Year

Climate Leaders
 

 

The award winners were scored by two-person teams comprised of staff from public agencies and private businesses.  ARB staff and leadership further reviewed scores, and conducted site visits and environmental reviews to arrive at final decisions.

The winners will receive their awards at a ceremony on June 13, 2012 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Cal-EPA Building (Sierra Hearing Room) 1001 I Street, Sacramento, CA 95814.  

CoolCalifornia.org is an online resource providing all Californians with the information and tools they need to take climate action.  The website features money-saving actions, climate calculators, case studies and links to financial incentives to help individuals, small businesses, local government and youth gain the knowledge needed to take simple steps for a sustainable future.

For more information, visit www.coolcalifornia.org.