How to become a Certified Green Business

Decide what type of green initiative(s) you want your company to implement. You rinitiative may affect the type of certification your business pursues. If you want your business to have a general green certification that,is recognized in the United states and Canada, and can be earned and tracked online, you should proceed to Step 2 . If you want your business to focus on sustainable building strategies, and have a green building LEED certification, which is internationally recognized, you should proceed to Step 3.

Become a member of the Green Business Bureau (gbb.org). The Green Business Bureau is a program that helps increase the visibility of green businesses while providing step by step support for achieving specific green initiatives. Businesses can track their progress online and receive recognition for each successful green initiative implemented. Companies receive a membership seal for their website, which allows customers to view and track their eco -friendly business practices.

Visit the Green Building Certification Institute's website to learn about Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system and application process. The LEED rating system is based on a 100 point system with each type of initiative worth a different point value, based on its overall eco-friendliness. Buildings that are eligible for this type of certification must be offices, institutions, retail or services establishments, or residential buildings with a minimum of four stories.

Go to LEED online (leedonline.com) to register you green project. Here you can submit project documentation for U.S. Green Building Council review, coordinate resources among you project team members, submit technical inquiries, and track your progress toward LEED certification.