On Tuesday, April 18 the Assessor’s Office will be recognized by the City of San Jose for its commitment to running a “green” office. Certified by the Green Business Program, the Assessor’s Office is one of only two Departments in the County that has earned this distinction. “I am very pleased to have received this designation. It demonstrates that you can be a strong manager and environmentally responsible,” said Assessor Larry Stone
The Green Business Program is a successful partnership of environmental agencies and utilities that assists, recognizes and promotes businesses and government agencies that volunteer to operate in a more environmentally responsible way. To be certified “green” participants must be in compliance with all regulations and meet program standards for conserving resources, preventing pollution and minimizing waste. Those standards included dozens of simple changes such as using recycled paper; purchasing computers, copiers, printers, and other office equipment with the Energy Star® logo; and adding sensors to shut off lights in workstations and conference rooms when not in use.
The Assessor’s Office massive project to scan 25 million documents over a period of 18 months and move to a paperless work environment was also hailed as a major eco-friendly project. “Going paperless is another example where good business practices intersect with good green business practice. In just one area of our operation going paperless has reduced processing time from an average of 60 days to just 8 days. Over the coming years it will also save a small forest from going to the pulp mill. It is exactly these types of practices that can save money while protecting the environment,” said Stone.
In Santa Clara County the Integrated Waste Management Division oversees the County’s Green Business Program. The Green Business Program encourages and assists local businesses and governments to implement sustainable practices to prevent pollution, protect water quality, conserve water and energy, reduce generation of waste, and increase recycling. For more information or to find out how to certify your Business go to http://greenbiz.sccgov.org or call 408-441-4329.
