Planning Resources
West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum “Self-Assessment Guide”
This guide has been developed by the West Michigan Sustainable Business Forum to be used by companies interested in measuring their business sustainability practices. It can help a company begin its journey toward sustainability. This self-assessment tool is designed for sustainability leaders to work with representatives from key areas within the company to identify ways to increase product and service efficiency, reduce negative health and environmental impacts, and meaningfully contribute to their communities. It also is intended as an internal subjective analysis to help the company achieve continuous improvement.
Climates Extremes Communication Guidebook
This guidebook has been created by the ICLEI Local Governments for Sustainability USA and World Wildlife Fund to aid local governments communicate about weather and climate extremes in the context of climate change. Included in the guidebook is background information on weather and climate extremes, communication approaches, and the role of local governments.
Grand Rapids Climate Resiliency Report
In 2013 The City of Grand Rapids commissioned West Michigan Environmental Council to prepare an assessment of climate vulnerabilities in conjunction with Grand Valley State University. The attached plan identifies 32 vulnerabilities and recommendations for addressing each.
Environment
Waste
- Recycling
- Elimination of toxins
Energy
- Conservation
- Renewable energy use
Water
- Quality
- Storm water/wastewater
- management
- Conservation
Air
- Greenhouse gas emissions
- Quality
- Noise abatement
Built Environment
- LEED building guidelines
- Facilities efficiency
Land Use/Preservation and Restoration
- Open space/greenspace
- Natural habitat
- Urban sprawl
- Biodiversity
- Charrette design
Transportation
- Fleet vehicles/use and efficiency
- Alternative modes
- Alternative fuels
Agriculture
- Local food crops
- Land erosion
Equity
Education
- Training
- Knowledge base/skill sets
- Intellectual capital
- Voter participation
Health and Wellness
- Human health
- Recreation
Quality of Life
- Housing/rental affordability
- Access to services
- Poverty reduction
- Community well-being
- Great neighborhoods
Cultural Competence
- Diversity
- Cultural awareness
- Arts and heritage
Safety and Security
- Crime rates
- Disaster planning
Spirituality
- Faith-based initiatives
Philanthropy
- Charitable contributions
- Volunteerism
Economy
Fiscal Management
- Expenditures
- Revenues
- Capitalization
Economic Development
- Employment
- Smart growth
- Business sustainability
- Brownfield redevelopment
- New Businesses
Purchasing
- Green Purchasing
- Policies and procedures
- Minority purchasing
- Local purchasing
- Aggregate purchasing
Utilization of Assets
- LEAN principles
- Shared services
Innovation
- Applied clean technologies
Help your organization build a sustainable foundation.