Chamber to recognize sustainable practices

Steps toward sustainability do not go unnoticed in Brookfield.

The Greater Brookfield Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the city and town of Brookfield and the Waukesha County Economic Development Corp., is hosting the third annual Sustainable Brookfield, an event that recognizes the efforts local businesses make to help ensure a healthy environment. The 2012 event is slated for 8 to 10 a.m. Sept. 25 at R.A. Smith National, 16745 W. Bluemound Road in Brookfield.

Last year, eight businesses were recognized for their efforts in sustainability. Brookfield Rehabilitation Center and Specialty Care, for example, received an award for completing a major renovation using sustainable building materials.

In the event's inaugural year, seven area businesses were honored for their sustainable practices, according to chamber President Carol White.

The chamber is going through applications of businesses that applied to be recognized at this year's Sustainable Brookfield. Any business owner or employee interested in learning how to create a more sustainable environment with their company is encouraged to attend the free event. Businesses do not have to be members of the Brookfield chamber to participate.

"The goal is to recognize those businesses that are already doing something, but second is to talk to those businesses who don't know where to even start," White said. "It's a sharing event for anyone looking to learn more about how they can get started."

This year's event will be hosted by R.A. Smith National, a company that has put forth tremendous efforts in using sustainable energy. Recently, the company invested in a wind turbine constructed on the building's roof and also installed solar panels.

"Our goal is to continue to recognize businesses that are engaged in sustainable business practices. We realize first and foremost what's important to a business owner is return on investment and how they can reduce energy costs and save on the bottom line on operating expenses," White said. "We also realize that the younger generation finds value in being connected with a business that recognizes those things so moving forward it's going to be more and more important for businesses to attract and retain good, young talent."

Being environmentally conscience does not have to be a large and expensive effort, said Judi Murphy, co-founder and senior vice president of Murphy Associates, Your Marketing Department. Murphy, a 20-year chamber member and past president, came up with the idea for the event three years ago.

She said that where sustainability is concerned the little things can go a long way. Murphy encourages all businesses that play a part, big or small, in pursuing sustainable practices to attend the event.

"You can redo lighting, which is good for the environment," she said. "There are all sorts of things that don't have to cost a lot of money."

Murphy also believes companies that are environmentally conscience are the ones that will have an easier time tapping into the younger work force.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Sustainable Brookfield

WHEN: 8 to 10 a.m. Sept. 25

WHERE: R.A. Smith National, 16745 W. Bluemound Road

REGISTER: Call (262) 786-1886 or email bcc@brookfieldchamber.com.