About EnviroCertified

EnviroCertified Business Services

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Overview

The EnviroCertified Program is a voluntary program offered to local small businesses. The program certifies businesses that put practices and policies in place to properly manage hazardous wastes and conserve resources. The Spokane Regional Health District provides Local Source Control, pollution prevention technical assistance visits. Program administration, public recognition activities and certification visits are conducted by the Spokane River Forum. 

On-site Analysis and Evaluation of Waste Management

The Local Source Control program specialists visit small businesses that generate hazardous waste to evaluate their handling practices. Program specialists assess these businesses for regulatory compliance, while offering new and best management practices for improvements.  Visits are offered without charge to small quantity generators.

  1. Identify and analyze possible sources of pollution such as:
  • Management of wastewater and wash water
  • Outdoor maintenance practices
  • Outdoor storage practices for products and waste
  • Fueling operations
  1. Provide tips and resources that help reduce operating costs
  2. Discuss ways to safely handle, reduce, reuse, recycle and dispose of hazardous materials
    • Waste disposal and recycling
    • Spill prevention and spill kits
    • The Spokane River Forum maintains and promotes the Spokane Waste Directory, an online resource of disposal options for businesses.
  3. Help owners understand the regulations and permits needed to safely handle hazardous materials
    • Check that Material Safety Data sheets are available for all hazardous products
    • Check that Emergency Spill Procedures are posted, and employees are trained

Conservation of Resources and Environmental Best Practices

Following successful completion of the Local Source Control visit, an EnviroCertified Specialist visits the business to review their full application. Applications are industry specific for:

Each industry application includes recommendations for energy and water conservation along with environmental best practices which are evaluated during the Certification visit. See applications above for the full list of items evaluated. Examples include:

Energy Conservation

  • Energy consumption is monitored and conserved.
  • We participate in EPA Green Lights, Energy Star or local rebate and incentive programs.
  • Motion-sensors, LED or natural lighting is used.
  • Hybrid, electric, biodiesel or car-share vehicles used.
  • LEED Certified – Specify level.
  • Rechargeable batteries are used.
  • Energy Star rated products are purchased.
  • Low Impact Development Building e.g., roof garden, solar panels, white roof, etc.

Water Conservation

  • Water leaks are repaired as soon as detected.
  • Low Impact Development Landscaping e.g., grassy swale, drought resistant plants, pervious surface, etc.
  • EPA Waterwise / Wastewise program member.
  • Low flow toilets are installed.

Environmental Best Practices

  • Environmentally preferable cleaning products are used.
  • Contracted services specify use of the least toxic products available.
  • A “no grease down the drain” policy is observed by employees.
  • Storm drains are stenciled with a message i.e., “Dump no waste, drains to aquifer & river”.
  • We participate in or sponsor neighborhood clean-up, or other projects in our community to encourage environmental stewardship.
  • Equipment is repaired vs. replaced.
  • Kitchen supplies are reusable or compostable.

Public Recognition

Public Recognition is provided for businesses that complete 1) the EnviroCertified on-site analysis and evaluation of waste management and 2) verify conservation of resources and environmental best practices.  Businesses receive:

  • A framed EnviroCertified certificate of recognition is given to the business for display, when the business meets the certification requirements.
  • Public recognition and advertising on the EnviroCertified website, at public events and through social media.
  • Advertising and promotion through use of EnviroCertified provided materials such as: decals, bookmarks, magnets and brochures.
  • Permission to use the EnviroCertified logo in business generated advertising materials, website and social media.

EnviroCertified is an initiative of the Spokane River Forum | 509-535-7084
For more information contact Tonilee Hanson 509-847-4337