This popular program is a forum for the exchange of ideas and dialog related to topics of sustainable communities. It is typically held during the lunch hour most months of the year and attendees are welcome to bring their own lunch (hence the “green bag” instead of a “brown bag”) if desired. Sessions may be held in person, only virtually, or a hybrid of both. The GreeningUSA Newsletter and our Facebook page announce the schedule and topic for upcoming programs. The YouTube channel is available to see past programs.

Anyone who is active in an area related to sustainable communities (particularly as it relates to one or more of the GreeningUSA 12 Traits of Sustainable Communities) is welcome to submit a synopsis of what they propose to offer. The Board will review all proposals, may request additional information, and determine the selection of speakers, panelists, and the schedule.

GreeningUSA convened a wide range of professionals and volunteers to review and assess the types of qualities and characteristics that make up communities that are truly sustainable. The resulting publications are available as a tool for all communities (i.e., cities, towns, counties, villages, etc.) to both assess their own aspects of sustainability and serve as a road map to greater sustainability.

GreeningUSA developed the 12 Traits at a time when there was no other metric available for communities to rate their own sustainability. Some ratings existed for buildings, (i.e., LEED®) but not for communities. Since then, a number of other community rating systems have been developed and are available including the STAR rating system which is now connected with LEED. Communities are now free to use whichever resource they prefer.

Yes, this is fully encouraged. GreeningUSA has published an updated manual titled “Policies for Sustainable Communities” based on the GreeningUSA 12 Traits© of Sustainable Communities. It offers specific items under each of the 12 Traits related to Environmental, Economic, and Social Equity sustainability actions and planning policies. The intent is that communities can use this language to formally adopt as many as possible into their own comprehensive planning and legislative efforts.

In order to balance out the “top down” focus of some of our other programs, the GreeningUSA Sustainability Academy is structured as a grass root or “bottom up” approach to sustainable communities. It is essentially an educational program that anyone in the general community can participate in to learn more about some practical and specific ways they live, work, and play more sustainably in their own communities.

Any organization with an interest in offering such a program can contact GreeningUSA about co- hosting or supporting an event. In the past we have teamed up with schools, zoos, civic groups, universities, and others who see education about sustainability as the key to successful change.

Since 2005, GreeningUSA has sought out and identified individuals, programs, organizations, or projects that exemplify good sustainability practices and results within their communities. Nominees are solicited from GreeningUSA members and the general community, and voted on by the GreeningUSA Board of Directors. Winners are notified in advance with a presentation made at the GreeningUSA Annual Meeting.

Any individual, business or organization can submit an award nomination. The GreeningUSA Awards program recognizes efforts of persons, organizations, or businesses within the Community, as well as GUSA members, that have made a significant impact on GUSA and the Community in advocating GUSA’s mission. Self-nominations are acceptable. Please contact us for a nomination form.