Sustainability

Energy conservation and the use of renewable energy are important elements of Greater Mankato's healthy economic climate and future. We have created this page to provide information on the many resources available throughout our region. In September, the Envision 2020 Green Building Group, along with Greater Mankato Growth, conducted a survey to assess area businesses’ status and knowledge level of energy efficiency initiatives and renewable energy. The information we received from the survey results led us to create this site. If you know of additional resources not yet included here, please email us, so that can share them with the business community.
 

Business Participation Needed!
Blue Earth County’s Annual Recycling SCORE Report
Blue Earth County is seeking participation from businesses in gathering recycling data for the annual SCORE report that counties within Minnesota are required to submit each year by State statute.   This report requires information on tonnages for everything from appliances, used oil and filters, to waste tires and everything in between.  Businesses throughout the County have been mailed forms to report recycling volumes for the 2012 calendar year and are asked to return the completed form by February 15, 2013 to ensure an accurate recycling measurement is reported.  Access online form

With the help of the business community, Blue Earth County has had one of the highest recycling rates in the State.  In 2011, Blue Earth County had a recycling rate of 63 percent.  For more information, please contact Jean Lundquist, Blue Earth County Recycling Coordinator at (507) 304-4440.

 

Green Power Training for Manufacturers

South Central College is now offering training to manufacturers covering sustainability, energy efficiency, pollution solutions, waste reduction, water conservation and green chemistry. The Center for Business and Industry (CBI) can tailor a program to your specific needs or your employees can attend the full course offerings. Program costs may be covered by grants from the US Government. more info


Recycling Resources

Recycling Resources

 

 

Sustainable Business Resource Center

Sustainable Business Resource Center (SBRC)

Created and managed by Minnesota Waste Wise, SBRC provides up to date environmentally-friendly and cost effective resources created by business for business.

 

DSIRE

• Database of Minnesota Incentives for renewables and efficiency

• National database of incentives for renewables and efficiency

 

MN Energy Smart

• Energy efficiency audit program for small business

• Quick tips for energy efficiency
• Analyze your energy toolbox
• Financial Incentives

 

Energy Matters Minnesota

• Energy Matters Minnesota is a diverse group of businesses and business-focused organizations in Minnesota that want to be informed about the impact of energy policies and emerging energy issues on businesses, consumers, and the state economy. The organization, led by the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, also serves as a public information resource to individuals and organizations and is an advocate on energy issues.

• Xcel Light Rebates

 

Xcel Energy

• Online energy small business save energy and money tools

• Renewable Energy for business

• Office building energy use information

• Other commercial tools for business

 

CenterPoint Energy

• Online tools for businesses

 

Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (SMMPA)

• Dedicated to their member communities and take responsibility for the efficient, cost effective and reliable delivery of electricity and services in an environmentally responsible manner.  Visit smmpa.com to learn more.

 

EPA Energy Star Program

• Tools for consumers, businesses, schools and all entities to assist them in identifying opportunities for energy savings and taking action to continuously improve.

• EPA business benchmarking resources

American Council On Renewable Energy (ACORE)

• Markets, Economic Development and Policy overviews for each state in the US

 

US Department of Energy

• Industrial Technology Programs (ITP) to assist companies in reducing their energy consumption by 25%.

 

U of M, MnTAP, Minnesota Technology Assistance Program

• Program that helps Minnesota businesses develop and implement industry-tailored solutions that prevent pollution at the source, maximize efficient use of resources, and reduce energy use and cost to improve public health and the environment.

 

South Central College

• South Central College will introduce GreenPOWER training designed to provide valuable skills in energy efficiency, environmental awareness, waste reduction and lean production techniques to current workers, new hires and unemployed workers.  These skills are highly valued by today's manufacturers.
• GreenPOWER training informational brochure

 

Environmental Assistance

• Small Business Environmental Assistance Program (SBEAP)  - Provides free, confidential, non-regulatory, environmental assistance to small businesses.
   

BioBased Products

• Minnesota's Opportunity & Challenge Report by Agricultural Research Utilization Institute
   

Ag Loans

• US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Loan Programs - Loans available to support clean and renewable energy.