To improve efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of our built environment, many states and local governments are implementing policies and programs which promote beyond-code building criteria. Municipalities and utilities across the country – and here in Michigan – offer incentives for high performance building projects such as LEED certified facilities. Creating financial and structural…

The recent record-setting extreme temperatures we experienced across the state will have a big impact on your energy usage. Even without making any changes in how your business uses energy, your furnace and other heating sources are working harder to maintain the current thermostat setting against this historic winter cold.  This means your office or…

The first ever “Sustainable Business Resources in West Michigan” presentation was delivered in Spanish by the U.S. Green Building Council of West Michigan and the West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum, hosted at the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Local Hispanic-owned business representatives gathered on November 29th, 2018 at the Chamber’s new location on Division…

Introduction On Thursday, November 8, 2018 at The Ballroom at McKay Towers in downtown Grand Rapids, the West Michigan Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council held their Annual Party and First Leadership Awards Ceremony for both members and guests.  The event honored individuals and corporations for their achievements to bring healthier, more sustainable buildings…

When it comes to all of the capital opportunities available for energy efficiency upgrades, building and business owners need to determine what is right for them. On Wednesday, September 12th, we put Michigan’s largest programs together at City Built Brewing to explain how they can help drive down the price of efficiency upgrades. Dru Ross…

Renewable energy generation is paramount to curbing greenhouse gas emissions and creating a more diverse, sustainable and dependable energy future.  On Wednesday August 15th, The Knickerbocker was filled with Grand Rapids stakeholders eager to learn about the possibilities of clean energy generation in our pure Michigan.  Speakers presented their perspective on the solution. Despite Michigan…

On your morning commute into work last Friday, you may have noticed “Pit Stops” offering treats and services to commuters. These pit stops were hosted by local organizations in celebration of Active Commute Week. Organizations including Mobile GR,  The Greater Grand Rapid Bicycle Coalition and the Grand Rapids 2030 District support Active Commute Week from…

The Zero Cities Project has been working diligently behind the scenes within City Hall to derive a comprehensive and strategic approach for a policy road map which would enable and encourage all Grand Rapids buildings to achieve zero carbon by 2050. The grant-funded project is informed by technical analysis, community collaboration and a strong focus in…

The Mayor’s Bike to Work Day last Friday the 18th was a great morning kick-off the end of the week. In celebration of active commuting, a group met at the Fulton Street Farmers Market and biked to the Calder Plaza to demonstrate the clean, fun and healthy benefits of bicycling. If you or your organization’s…

Consumers Energy is leading by example by releasing an ambitious Sustainability Report for 2018. It serves as a snapshot of their progress while pursuing the goals towards the triple bottom line of “people, planet, and prosperity”. Some key takeaways from this year’s release is that the energy provider is aggressively pursuing 80 percent carbon emissions…