The Thurston Green Business designation program has a mission of connecting and celebrating sustainable businesses and organizations in Thurston County and enhancing the overall environmental and economic health of our community.

Briefly, the program recognizes businesses that take steps to be green and save money while protecting and preserving resources. Saving energy and water, while reducing waste, are good steps that benefit our environment. The savings that result from conservation boost the bottom-line.

Now in its 12th year, the program is vibrant and growing. Administered by the Thurston County Chamber, the program receives support from program partners, which includes the City of Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater, as well as Puget Sound Energy, Intercity Transit, the Port of Olympia and Olympia Nissan. A representative from each organization sits on the Thurston Green Committee, which meets monthly. Christine Hoffman of Puget Sound Energy and Rachael Jamison from the Port of Olympia co-chair the committee.

Applications opened on January 1 and will close on March 15. This year, there are seven sections in the application:

  1. Green Business Practices
  2. Energy Efficiency
  3. Transportation and Commute Trip Reduction
  4. Waste Reduction and Recycling
  5. Water Conservation
  6. Social Performance Indicators
  7. Sustainable Product Life Cycle

Applicants must pass a minimum of one section to receive the designation. There is no cost to apply, successful applicants receive a Thurston Green window cling, a certificate, and the community recognizes all successful applicants at a luncheon on April 10, 2019. In addition, the community will recognize and honor one small, medium, and large business that has shown outstanding effort in the area of sustainability and lowering environmental.  Businesses do not have to be a member of the Thurston Chamber to apply or attend the recognition event.

Learn more here:  https://thurstongreenbusiness.com/apply/