Sustainable Business Recognition Program
The mission of the Falmouth Sustainability Committee is to save energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Falmouth. To recognize Falmouth businesses who are making extraordinary contributions to these goals, the Sustainability Committee has instituted an award to recognize businesses who have demonstrated outstanding commitment.
How can my business get recognized?
Let us know what sustainable actions your business has committed to following in its operations by completing the Sustainable Business Recognition Program Application!
For a guide on some potential actions, please see the Appendix of Sustainable Actions
Examples of actions the Sustainability Committee looks for in potential awardees:
Energy Conservation
- Track, understand, and review utility bills to identify any inconsistent high usage.
- Utilize renewable energy to support operations, such as electric, heating and EV charging.
- Reduce energy use by installing LED lightbulbs or Air Source Heat Pumps.
Waste Management
- Offer clearly labeled recycling bins for customers and staff.
- Contract with waste hauler(s) to collect and separate trash, recycling, and food waste.
Transportation
- Provide bike racks, bike storage for employees, and/or have EV chargers available.
- Encourage/incentivize employees to carpool.
- Provide Greater Portland Metro bus passes to employees.
- Allow employees to telecommute or work a condensed schedule.
Indoor Air Quality
- Work with your HVAC specialist to determine the correct level of outdoor air needed to provide your space with a recommended minimum air quality.
- Enact a green cleaning policy.
- Utilize integrated pest management practices
Water Conservation
- Reduce water use by using low flow pre-rinse spray valves or aerators in kitchen and bathroom sinks.
- Track, understand, and review utility bills and water meter for any indications of leaks or other problems.
Kitchen and Food
- Offer clearly labeled food waste bins to compost food scraps, food waste, and/or compostable products in the front and back of house, as applicable.
- Recycle frying oil to be reused in biodiesel manufacturing. (Applies to food providers only)
- Commit to not using plastic straws, utensils, stirrers, picks, single-serve coffee pods, or unnecessary packaging. Instead, providing reusable, compostable, or recyclable straws, utensils, stirrers, picks, or coffee pods.
Community Stewardship
- Lead by example: offer insight and assistance to other local businesses that are interested in adopting more sustainable practices.
By investing in these sustainable practices your business will save money by reducing your energy costs. Plus, if your business is selected by the Sustainability Comittee to be recognized for its outstanding commitment, it will receive Town Council recognition, a certificate, and will be highlighted in the Falmouth Focus and Sustainability newsletter, which will increase awareness of your commitment to sustainability to the community.
Get more information
If you think that your business qualifies for recognition, but have questions, please contact Theresa Galvin at the Falmouth Sustainability Office: 207-699-5337 or tgalvin@falmouthme.org