FAQs
How much does it cost to get certified?
The Green Business Certification is offered at no cost to businesses. Businesses may incur some expenses in meeting the program requirements, but they will be connected to rebates to help offset those costs. The program itself does not charge for the certification or for the assistance provided.
How long does the certification process take?
The process can take 3-5 months. Two key factors that affect the length of time that it takes are: 1) if the business is committed to and has the capacity to work on this, and 2) if the business needs to make significant improvements such as upgrading lights. Green Business Program staff will help a business to identify significant improvements that may be needed early in the process.
What is the process to get certified?
See How to Get Certified for more information.
What are the benefits of certification?
See the Benefits of Certification for more information.
Why should I get certified?
See Why Get Certified to hear from businesses about why they chose to get certified.
I run a home-based business. Can I still get certified?
Yes! We have several home-based businesses in the program.
My business leases office space and we don't have control over the facility. Can we still get certified?
Yes! Many of the businesses in the program are tenants. Ask Green Business Program staff to provide you with more information about getting certified as a tenant.
My business is virtual. Can we still be certified?
Yes! Every business, even a virtual business, has to have two things: 1) a physical address for their business license, taxes, etc., and 2) a physical location where the work is conducted (even if it's just maintaining a website and email communications). Your physical location based on these two factors will be evaluated for your certification. If you have questions about your particular situation, please contact us.
My organization isn't actually a business. Can we get certified?
Yes! The Green Business Program originally started as a program for businesses, but we have certified a wide range of organizations., including nonprofits, schools, child care centers, churches, synagogues, libraries, fire stations, and more.
My business is already in a LEED and/or Energy Star certified building. Do we already meet the requirements?
Yes, you will already be meeting many of the program requirements! Businesses in LEED and Energy-Star-certified buildings are great candidates for certification. Note that there will still be some program requirements that may not automatically be covered by those certifications.
My business is already green. Should we get certified?
The Green Business checklist provides a comprehensive framework to help a business ensure that it is following or exceeding best practices across a wide range of areas. The Alameda County Green Business Program has certified hundreds of businesses over the past 20 years, and every business - no matter how green they already are - finds opportunities for improvement. Whether your business is just starting their sustainability journey or is already far along, the certification process will provide opportunities for learning.
Are all businesses eligible for certification?
Most businesses are eligible for certification. The Green Business Program works across multiple industries, and we have certified dentists, printers, auto repair shops, restaurants, veterinary clinics, preschools, fire stations, and more. However, there are some exceptions (such as hospitals that cannot be certified because we're not set up to adequately assess medical waste). If you have questions about whether your business can be certified, please contact us.
Who runs the Green Business Program?
We are an independently run program supported by local program partners and the California Green Business Network and our local program partners.
How do I get started?
My question wasn't answered here. Can I speak to someone?
Yes! Please contact us.