The new organization, Sustainability Professionals of Greater Chattanooga, has been formed to support employees who are dedicated to promoting sustainability practices within their corporations.
Elizabeth Hammitt, director of Environmental Stewardship and Community at EPB and president of Sustainability Professionals of Greater Chattanooga, envisioned such a group about two years ago. “As our community continues to grow its environmental reputation, there is a need for experts versed in how to implement green programs and processes. We believe that every organization can benefit from integrating sustainability into its operations. Together, we can offer the experience, resources, and support to help local groups realize these financial and social benefits, and we will advocate for sustainability as a viable career choice.”
To date, representatives from the following companies have joined the new organization: BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, city of Chattanooga, EPB, green|spaces, Shaw Carpets, Tennessee Environmental Council, Tennessee Green Hospitality, The Crash Pad, UTC, Unum, Urban Century Institute and WAP Sustainability.
Membership is $50 per individual, which provides access to member only roundtable discussions, educational opportunities and insight on best practices of starting a sustainability program at an office.
The organization is hosting bi-monthly Open to Public Events where anyone can join to learn more about sustainability strategies. The lunch and learns are $10 for non-members and will be hosted at green|spaces at 63 E. Main St. from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Topics will include: May 8 - Getting Started with Going Green at Your Office; July 10 - Fear of Costs: Justifying Green Programs; Sept. 11 - Product Sustainability and Certifications: Preventing Greenwashing and Nov. 13: Implementing a Recycling Program in Your Workplace.
For more information on the Sustainability Professionals of Greater Chattanooga, visit www.spchattanooga.org or contact Dawn Hjelseth at spgc.contact@gmail.com.