Iowa City chamber launches environmental sustainability roundtable

Through its environmental sustainability roundtable, the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce is assisting businesses with identifying strategies to reduce operating costs and promoting environmental stewardship.

The group was implemented through the leadership of ACT CEO Jon Whitmore. Participants include representatives from ACT, University of Iowa, Pearson, Rockwell Collins, Innovative Software Engineering, City of Iowa City, Johnson County, Iowa City Community School District, City Carton Recycling and Bright Green Strategy. The group is in the process of expanding its reach to smaller businesses.

The group's objectives for 2012 include incorporating a sustainability theme into the Chamber's annual Buy Here Business Fair and connecting University of Iowa students to businesses interested in implementing green strategies into their workplace.

Exhibitors at the Buy Here Business Fair will showcase efforts in energy and climate, our built environment, food, recycling and waste reduction, water, transportation and lifestyle and health.

“Sustainability is a natural extension of the Chamber's Buy Here initiative.  Localizing the supply chain preserves natural resources by minimizing shipping, which reduces carbon emissions,” said Nancy Quellhorst, president & CEO of the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce. “Shifting procurements to Johnson County creates jobs and strengthens the businesses on whom we depend for tax dollars and philanthropy.”

The complimentary event is scheduled for Wednesday, April 25 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at hotelVetro, 201 S. Linn Street, Iowa City. The community is encouraged to attend to explore local goods and services and to gain ideas on becoming more green.

The group is also partnering with the University of Iowa's Office of Sustainability to identify students in a variety of disciplines to offer guidance to small businesses on going green.

“Many small businesses endeavor to reduce their environmental impact, but they do not know how to begin,” said Quellhorst. “Efficiency improves profitability.”