Making your organization greener is one of the smartest decisions you can make. It's simple math. When you electrify your facilities and improve your energy efficiency, you're not just helping the environment; you're building a more efficient, cheaper operation that can save you money. But more than just cost, your customers and employees want to support a business that commits to sustainability. By keeping sustainability as a top priority, everyone thrives.
Improving energy efficiency results in more comfortable buildings with improved air quality, consistent heat across spaces, and lower energy bills.
Consider installing a renewable energy system or buying green power.
There are several ways that your operations could be contributing to higher costs and waste. Learn what this could mean for your carbon emissions.
Read about other organizations in Dane County and how they found a way to incorporate climate action into their everyday.
Every year we highlight organizations across Dane County that are making progress towards sustainability goals. We have several categories, and businesses are especially encouraged to apply! Showcase to your customers and your employees that you are a Climate Champion and send in your application!
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When Mike and Pam Barrett bought Harmony Bar in 2022 they took ownership of a Madison cultural institution.Energy efficiency was everything to Mike, who wanted to do the right thing for the environment and ensure his patrons were comfortable in the process. The associated benefits of eliminating drafts, excessive summer heat, and improving indoor air quality were all motivating factors for management.
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From working with companies to reengineering equipment to meet the needs of our climate, grass, and customers, Greenline Lawn Care is helping refine designs and increase the efficiency and function of electric mowers. Owner Dan Steinmentz decided to invest in electric mowers and demonstrate that not only could it be done but that there were also a great option that made sense financially and environmentally.
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Exact Sciences’ Discovery Campus laboratory and warehouse on Madison’s near west side is a showcase for resource efficiency and climate leadership. Opening in summer 2019, the Exact Sciences building has earned LEED Gold certification.
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After seeing the positive impacts of teleworking, our Climate Champion program updated our Employee Commuting category to include telework. The category recognizes entities where employees have shifted to environmentally sustainable commuting methods as well as those entities that make it easier for their employees to shift to biking, walking, carpooling, mass transit and telework options.
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“Our goals of environmental stewardship were advanced by converting completely to renewable energy systems. The building renovation creates a space that is accessible, spiritually uplifting, and welcoming to all. Friends believe the energy-efficient Meetinghouse can serve as a model for other congregations, and it provides a low-carbon facility where community groups can hold activities.”
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Here in Dane County there are several groups that are doing great work to reduce food waste, such as Badger Prairie Needs Network and REAP Food Group. Badger Prairie runs a food recovery program, and REAP is a non-profit that has established several sustainable food programs including the Farm to School and Farm to Business programs.
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