Environmental Project Ideas

Green Tier participants - Below is a list of environmental project ideas to peruse. The ideas are meant to be ambitious and impactful initiatives that can improve your company’s environmental footprint. As a Green Tier participant, you have made the commitment to push beyond compliance to tackle larger environmental goals, with the help of your environmental management system (EMS). We hope some of these ideas help you do that.

These projects are not required. It is up to you to choose what is right for your organization's goals and capacities. There is no one size fits all approach to corporate sustainability, so some of these projects may make sense for some Green Tier participants and not for others.
**The DNR is not endorsing these projects nor any tool over another. This webpage is meant to serve as an idea generator.

The list below includes an assortment of articles, case studies, best management practices and tools from leading organizations to help you continue to challenge yourselves to move toward superior environmental performance.

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• An asterisk (*) indicates introductory information on the topic.

Air Emissions

Carbon Reductions

Articles and Websites

• Carbon Capture: Technologies and solutions available for carbon capture. Source: C2ES
• Decarbonizing Buildings: Opportunities for Commercial buildings to decarbonize. Source: C2ES
• *Decarbonizing US Industry: Opportunities and challenges of decarbonization facing industry today. Source: C2ES
• Greenhouse Gas Emissions Management for Small Businesses & Low Emitters: A guide to estimating and reducing an Organization's GHG emissions. Source: EPA
• *Overview of Greenhouse Gases: Learn about the most important greenhouse gases (GHGs) and opportunities for reducing emissions. Source: EPA
• Steps Corporations Can Take to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A guide to setting GHF reduction targets and providing information on the three types or Scopes of emissions as defined by the GHG Protocol. Source: LevelTen Energy
• *What We Can Do to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions: A description of policies, technologies and actions that can help reduce GHG emissions across a selection of sectors. Source: C2ES

Tools

• EPA's Simplified GHG Emissions Calculator: A simplified calculation tool to help small businesses and low emitters estimate their annual GHG emissions. Source: EPA
• GHG Calculation Tools: A listing of all tools available from GHG Protocol. These tools allow companies to develop comprehensive and reliable inventories of their GHG emissions. Source: GHG Protocols

Fuel Burning

General Information and Data

• Biomass and the Environment: Overview of the impacts of biomass including benefits and costs. Source: EPA
• Environmental Impacts of Natural Gas: Overview of environmental impacts of natural gas use and the importance of considering lifecycle. Source: UCS
• Health Impacts of Natural Gas and Biomass: Key takeaways for businesses to understand the overall impact of natural gas usage. Source: Harvard School of Public Health
• Natural Gas and the Environment: Overview of the impacts of natural gas including benefits and costs. Source: EIA
• Propane as an Alternative Fuel: Overview of propane and its potential as an alternative energy fuel. Source: Alternative Fuels Data Center
• Wood Energy 101: Information about using wood for energy with consideration for health and environmental impacts. Source: UW Extension

Articles and Websites

• Biomass implications for energy and economy in Wisconsin: News article outlining biomass’ potential as a leading renewable resource for Wisconsin. Source: Energy News Network

Case Studies

• Wisconsin State Wood Energy Team Case Studies: Case Studies for using wood as a resource for heat or power. Source: UW Extension

Best Management Practices

• Burn Wise Program | EPA Guidance on Burning Wood: Rules/BMPs/tools for wood burning. Source: EPA
• Propane for Commercial Buildings and Construction: Download various guides for building or constructing with propane as fuel. Source: Propane.com

Tools

• Propane Fueling Station Locations: Find liquefied petroleum gas (propane) fueling stations in the United States and Canada. Source: Alternative Fuels Data Center
• Woody Biomass Harvest Guidelines: Sustainable harvest of woody biomass from forested areas within the context of generally accepted forestry practices. Source: DNR
• Woody Biomass Resources: DNR's Forest Product Services Team page on how they can help businesses with biomass. Source: DNR

Hazardous Air Pollutants

General Information and Data

• Less Toxic Alternatives in Solvent Applications: List of alternatives for some of the higher-toxicity solvents used in industry and the service sector. Source: Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Resource Center
• Less Toxic Auto Repair: Degrease with Aqueous: Details on two aqueous alternatives to petroleum-based solvents without the toxic exposure. Source: Pacific Northwest Pollution Prevention Resource Center
• Safer Alternatives to Cleaning Solutions: Resources to help companies and organizations move away from toxic chemicals and toward safer alternatives. Source: Minnesota Technical Assistance Program

Tools

• Aqueous Cleaning Toolkit: A toolkit to help businesses assess risk reduction, costs & benefits, and the process to start using water-based solvent. Source: EPA
• Search Products that Meet the Safer Choice Standard: Searchable database to find products that meet the EPA's Safer Choice Standard. Source: EPA

Health Impacts

General Information and Data

• Air Quality Information for Health Professionals: Resources for health professionals about various air pollutants and who is at risk of health impacts. Source: DNR
• Child Health Risks of Air Pollution: Child health risks caused by both ambient and household air pollution and the prevalence of air pollution across the world that emphasize the importance of pollution control. Source: World Health Organization
• Disparities in the Impact of Air Pollution: Health disparities between predominantly white vs. predominantly African American communities as well as between wealthy vs. low income communities due to air pollution. Source: American Lung Association
• Health Impacts of Buildings in Wisconsin: Interactive map showing the impacts of air pollution caused by buildings in Wisconsin. Source: RMI
• Regional Health Effects: Estimated health impacts in the Midwest if no mitigation efforts are made to reduce air pollution. Source: CDC

Articles and Websites

• *Ideas for Companies to clean up the air: Information on the health issues associated with air emissions and the importance of reducing pollution. Source: GreenBiz

Tools

• Environmental Public Health Tracking: Various resources on Wisconsin Environmental Health Data including County Profiles, Ideas for Taking Action, and a Data Portal. Source: DHS

Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS)

Articles and Websites

• *About the Montreal Protocol: Background on the Montreal Protocol to phase down plan to reduce the consumption and production of ODS. Source: UN Environment Programme
• *Information on the Phaseout of Ozone-Depleting Substances for Equipment Owners and Operators: Resources for those with equipment that uses ozone-depleting substances. Source: EPA
• Ozone-Depleting Substances Destruction Technologies: Information on sources of ODS for destruction, as well as best practices for safe collection, recovery, transport and destruction of these substances. Source: EPA
• Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) Program: SNAP identifies and evaluates substitutes for ozone-depleting substances. Source: EPA

Particulate Matter (PM)

Articles and Websites

• Best Practices for Baghouse Inspections & Maintenance: A summary of best practices for routine and preventive maintenance on baghouses to avoid critical problems. Source: Neundorfer
• How to Prevent Industrial Air Pollution in Manufacturing: Strategies for businesses to prevent particulate matter emissions. Source: AltEnergyMag
• Particulate Matter Basics: A summary of definitions, how it gets in the air and the harmful effects of particulate matter. Source: EPA

Refrigerants

General Information

• Resources from Industrial Refrigeration Consortium including academic qualifications, technical expertise, and practical experience: Resources for improving industrial refrigeration systems and technologies. Source: Industrial Refrigeration Consortium

Articles and Websites

• *How Chemicals in Your Fridge Warm the Planet: Details on refrigerants and how they affect the climate, with information on natural refrigerants. Includes definitions and end-of-life issues. Source: BBC
• Refrigerant Management Plan and Methodology: A technical summary on strategies for reducing refrigerant use. Source: Project Drawdown

Tools

• American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHEAE): Technical Resources for heating, cooling, and building performance. Source: ashrae

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

General Information

• *Basics of Green Chemistry: Overview of Green Chemistry: chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate the use or generation of hazardous substances. Source: EPA
• Solvents and Green Chemistry: Information on techniques and applications for solvent replacement and/or removal in various process conditions, as well as methods to assess the sustainability of solvents. Source: American Chemical Society

Articles and Websites

• How to Reduce VOCs in Manufacturing: Suggestions on how to reduce VOCs in your manufacturing processes. Source: University of Minnesota
• Reducing VOCs in Painting: 3 Steps to reducing VOCx in manufacturing and paint finishing processes. Source: CH Reed
• *Why Reduce VOCs in Manufacturing: Reasons why an organization should consider VOC reductions in their operations. Source: University of Minnesota

Case Studies

• Green Chemistry Challenge Winners: EPA designated Green Chemistry Challenge Winners by Year (1996-2021). Source: EPA

Tools

• HCPA Consumer Product Ingredients Dictionary: The Ingredients Dictionary is a unified source for ingredient names that are now required by the state of California and accepted by Walmart, Target, and the EPA Safer Choice program. Source: Household and Commercial Products Association
• Wisconsin's Emission Reduction Credit (ERC) Registry: Information on the WI ERC to assist facilities looking for emissions offsets to meet Nonattainment New Source Review permitting requirements. Source: DNR

Videos

• Pollution Prevention Mini-Webinar - Air Emission Reductions: Learn about how and why to reduce air emissions and find resources to help. Source: Minnesota Technical Assistance Program

Energy

Energy Efficiency and Conservation

Articles and Websites

• Cool Companies: Find strategies and technologies that save energy, cut costs and reduce pollution. Source: Cool Companies
• Energy and the Environment: EPA Resources on Energy. Source: EPA Resources on Energy
• *Energy Conservation tips for Commercial Buildings: EnergyStar information and tools for improving the energy efficiency of buildings. Source: EPA
• Energy Conservation tips for Small Businesses: How small and medium businesses can reduce energy use from EnergyStar. Source: EPA
• *Energy Management and Better Buildings Initiatives: Information and resources from the Better Buildings Initiative. Source: DOE
• *Energy Management Systems: Information about energy management systems (ISO 50001). Source: DOE
• Energy Management Systems - ISO 50001 Ready Program: Self-paced, no-cost program to help organizations build a culture of structured energy improvement. Source: DOE
• Energy Treasure Hunts: Resources to help your company conduct a treasure hunt to save energy and money. Source: DOE
• Focus on Energy - Wisconsin's Statewide Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Program: Technical resources and financial assistance for energy conservation and reducing energy waste in Wisconsin. Source: Focus on Energy
• Guidebook for reducing exergy demand in the built environment: Advanced concepts for reducing exergy demand of buildings from the ECBCS Annex 49. Source: IEA
• Information about Combined Heat and Power: CHP captures heat that would otherwise be wasted to provide useful thermal energy such as steam or hot water than can be used for space heating, cooling, domestic hot water and industrial processes. Source: EPA
• *Information about Combined Heat and Power Partnerships: Through the CHP Partnership, EPA works with a network of CHP stakeholders to promote CHP’s role in providing affordable, reliable, and low emission energy. Source: EPA
• *Office of Energy Innovation: Office of Energy Innovation website with links to funding opportunities, innovation programs and focus on energy. Source: WI OEI

Tools

• Emission Calculation Tools: Emissions calculator to help you develop emission inventories and track progress toward climate goals. Source: GHG Protocol
• Energy Improvement Actions Register: Template register to help you organize and track your energy performance improvement actions that supports ISO 50001 Certification. Source: DOE
• Energy Management Tools: Guidance, Data Collection, and Analysis tools to help with your organization's energy management strategy. Source: DOE
• Energy Performance Indicator Tool: Regression analysis-based tool for tracking your energy improvement progress by calculating emission avoidance and cost savings. Source: DOE
• Energy Team Toolkit: This FREE toolkit provides you with the resources you need to get started. Source: WI PSC
• Portfolio Manager: ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager tool lets you measure and track your properties' energy, water, waste, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in a secure online environment. Source: EPA
• Improving Building and Equipment Operations and Maintenance: Connect with a Focus on Energy Advisor to help consult on potential energy efficiency projects for your building and/or equipment. Source: Focus on Energy

Net Zero and Carbon Neutral

Articles and Websites

• Achieving Net-Zero: How businesses can bridge the gap for achieving net zero. Source: pWc
• Business Strategies to Achieve Net-Zero: Business Case for climate action. Source: Ceres
• Designing and Communicating Net-Zero Targets: Solutions for setting realistic and achievable climate goals. Source: WRI
• Information about Net-Zero: Net Zero information from the World Resources Institute. Source: WRI
• Planning for a Zero Carbon Future: Is Your Company Ready for a Zero-Carbon Future? Source: Harvard Business Review
• Science-Based Net-Zero Information: Guidance and tools companies need to set net-zero targets for carbon.. Source: Science Based Targets

Case Studies

• Case study on Dell Technologies journey to Net Zero: Case study on Dell Technologies journey to Net Zero. Source: Dell Technologies

Tools

• How to Achieve Net-Zero: Build a personalized plan to kick-start your business' net-zero plan. Source: The Economist

Videos

• How offsets can fit into your carbon reduction plan.: Top challenges and key actions to overcome them. Source: Quantisintl

Renewable Energy

Articles and Websites

• Climate Forward Report: Information and strategies for WI to address climate change through energy. Source: UW
• Energy Strategy for the C-Suite: Article on why and how to integrate energy into company interests. Source Harvard Business Review
• Focus on Energy Renewable Energy Incentives: Financial incentives from Focus on Energy. Source: Focus on Energy
• Green Power Partnership: Landing page for all things Green Energy at the EPA. Source: EPA
• Property-Assessed Clean Energy (PACE): PACE helps implement renewables using a unique financial mechanism. Source: PACE
• Scope 1 and Scope 2 Emissions Guidance: EPA info on Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. Source: EPA

Tools

• Guide to Purchasing Green Power: This guide is a starting point for organizations interested in buying green power - including information on the procurement process, supply options, benefits, and more. Source: EPA
• Power Profiler: EPA’s E-Grid Power Profiler helps you see how green the energy grids are across the country. Source: EPA
• Renewable Energy Project Development Toolbox: This EPA toolbox examines six key issues that have important implications for developing on-site solar projects. Source: EPA
• Solar Siting and Design: Information and criteria for siting solar panels in ways that avoid, minimize, and mitigate potential impacts to the environment. Source: The Nature Conservancy

Videos

• Green Power Partnership Events and Webinars: Current and past webinars about green energy. Source: EPA
• *How to go solar and pay for it too: How to go solar and pay for it too. Source: SGP
• Reducing operating costs with renewable energy: Reducing operating costs with renewable energy. Source: SGP

Habitat conservation & restoration

Climate Resiliency

General Information and Data

• Business Action on Resilience: Businesses will need to take steps to be more resilient to climate change, which may be small adjustments or large changes. Source: Center for Climate and Energy Solutions
• Business for Social Responsibility: Why ecosystem services is relevant to business. Source: BSR
• Natural Climate Solutions: local level strategies to avoid emissions through protection, sequestration, and restoration projects. Source: Land Trust Alliance
• Resilience is Make or Break for Business: Resilience can help avoid losses and offer a sizeable business opportunity. Source: World Economic Forum
• US Climate Resilience Toolkit: Our economy and culture continue to depend on natural ecosystem services. Actions to protect these resources is both possible and essential. Source: NOAA
• Wisconsin's Changing Climate: WICCI's 2021 Assessment report includes impacts and solutions for a warmer climate. Source: WICCI

Articles and Websites

• Business Case for Climate Resilience: This guide communicates why action to address the risks from climate change can make good business sense and provides guidance on embedding climate risk assessment and evaluation of resilience options into business planning and operations. Source: AECOM
• Companies and Climate Resilience: Mobilizing the power of the private sector to address climate risks. Source: Climate Centre
• Fighting Nature Loss Should be a Business Priority: Many businesses understand the value of nature and are voluntarily shifting their practices towards sustainability and longer-term thinking. Source: World Economic Forum
• Integrating Ecosystems into Due Diligence: How companies assess ecosystem impacts and dependencies in business decision-making processes. Source: GreenBiz

Case Studies

• Adaptation Success Stories: WICCI in Action: Climate Success Stories are a window into the daily work of WICCI's members and affiliates. Source: WICCI
• Beavers and Climate Resilience: Beavers mitigate the impacts of climate change, helping conserve water during periods of drought and enhance wetland carbon storage. They are one of the most cost effective and sustainable solutions for ecological restoration and climate change resilience. Source: USFWS
• Climate Adaptation Case Studies: Searchable database of case studies focused on adaptation. Source: EPA
• Climate Resilience Case Studies: Information from North America focused on resilience. Source: NOAA
• Land Trust Case Studies: Mitigation, Adaptation, Carbon Finance, and Education Case Studies from around the Midwest. Source: Land Trust Alliance

Best Management Practices

• Climate Change Interactive Mapping Tool: Choose many locations in our state and see their climate analogs — places in the United States that currently resemble what Wisconsin’s climate is projected to be like in 2080. Source: WCCI
• Nature Based Solutions: Compendium of nature-based solutions from around the world. Source: UNEP
• Sustainable Best Management Practices for Remediation: Effective and practical methods or techniques to build or adapt a sustainable and climate impact–resilient environmental remediation site. Source: Interstate Technology Regulatory Council

Tools

• Climate Resilience Portal: Examples and tools for resilience planning that can serve as models for future initiatives. Source: Center for Climate and Energy Solutions
• Risks and Opportunities for Change: Strategies for businesses to manage risks for ecosystem services. Source: World Resource Institute
• US Climate Resilience Toolkit: Catalog of more than 500 digital tools can help you take steps to build resilience, from engaging a community to developing a climate action plan. Source: NOAA

Conservation

General Information and Data

• Wisconsin's Animals: Learn about habitat, management goals, and more for our native species. Source: DNR
• Wisconsin's Biodiversity: Learn about the importance of biodiversity and protecting our rare species. Source: DNR

Articles and Websites

• Business and Biodiversity: Learn how biodiversity is a fundamental component of long-term business survival. Source: International Finance Corporation
• Business of Nature: Protecting and restoring the environment is good for business and essential for the world. Source: National Geographic
• Conservation and Economics: Businesses can save ecosystems and support economic development. Source: The Guardian
• Ecological Landscapes of Wisconsin: ecological attributes and management opportunities that can be used to identify the best areas to manage for natural communities, key habitats, aquatic features, and native plants and animals from an ecosystem management perspective. Source: DNR
• Natural Resources Foundation: Connect with people who want to help with meaningful opportunities to make a lasting impact on Wisconsin’s lands, waters, wildlife, and future stewards. Source: NRF
• Whitepapers on Conservation: The Wildlife Habitat Council has assembled an assortment of Whitepapers on numerous conservation topics. Source: WHC
• World Wildlife Fund Business Actions: A healthy business depends on a healthy planet. Partner with the World Wildlife Fund and some of the world's leading corporations to meet big conservation threats with an equally big response. Source: WWF
• Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation: The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation is an international nonprofit organization that protects the natural world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats. Source: Xerces

Case Studies

• Corporate Success Stories: Case studies and success stories of business conservation efforts. Source: WHC
• Strategic Conservation Planning: Case studies showing the importance of conservation in a changing climate. Source: Land Trust Alliance

Certification

• Conservation Project Certification: Guidance and tools for getting your conservation projects certified by the Wildlife Habitat Council. Source: WHC
• Fish and Wildlife 2% Certification: Get certified for your time and money spent on conservation. Source: USFWS
• Travel Green Certification: Become certified as a Travel Green Wisconsin organization. Source: Travel Wisconsin

Best Management Practices

• Amphibians and Reptiles: Wisconsin is home to 19 species of amphibians and 37 reptiles. There are many ways to get involved! Source: DNR
• Bat Houses: Bats are important predators of mosquitoes and night-flying insects and can reduce these pests around your home and garden. Help keep these valuable mammals in your area by building a house for roosting and to raise their young. Source: DNR
• Bird Conservation: Wisconsin is home to over 300 species of birds. Explore the information on birds and how to get involved in conservation efforts. Source: DNR
• Native Plants native plant basics, garden tours and more. Source: DNR
• Pollinator Habitat: real-world tested methodologies for developing valuable and effective pollinator habitat. Source: Xerces
• Prairie and Habitat Information: Download information, guides, and resources about prairie management and more. Source: Prairie Nursery
• Prairie Planting Information: Learn about benefits, implementation, and maintenance of prairie plantings. Source: Prairie Moon

Tools

• Conservation Opportunity Areas: a map to help you learn where and how to help Species of Greatest Conservation Need and their habitats. Source: DNR
• Landowner Incentive Program: Helps private landowners create and manage habitat for species that are rare or declining. The program provides management advice, assistance with management plans and cost-share funding to individuals and organizations on private lands — with a focus on the Driftless Area of Wisconsin. Source: DNR
• Local Engagement Opportunities: An interactive map to help you realize what natural features and resources are near your facility. Use the map to see opportunities for achieving superior environmental performance. Source: DNR
• Nature Conservancy Gateway: Conservation planning, practices and regional information as well as calculators and handbooks. Source: The Nature Conservancy
• Natural Heritage Inventory: partners with landowners, businesses, communities and others to consider potential impacts of land development and management projects on rare species very early in the project planning process. The goal is to conserve the rare plants, animals and habitats found in Wisconsin. Source: DNR
• Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program: free technical and financial assistance to landowners (including corporations) that are interested in improving wildlife habitat on their land. Source: USFWS
• State Park Volunteer Opportunities: View and apply for volunteer opportunities at Wisconsin State Parks. Source: DNR
• Statewide Wildlife Inventories: Inventory and monitoring data submitted by citizens in order to better understand Wisconsin's natural resources. Data are obtained through individual projects administered through our Citizen-based Monitoring Network as well as from submissions to ongoing Statewide Surveys. Source: DNR

Endangered Species

General Information and Data

• Wisconsin Endangered Species List: The list was created to protect species threatened with extinction from the state. Source: DNR

Articles and Websites

• Natural Heritage Conservation: The DNR's Natural Heritage Conservation Program helps protect and restore Wisconsin's rare plants, animals and state natural areas. Source: DNR
• Protecting Endangered Species: The National Wildlife Federation works to defend, strengthen, fund, and ensure effective implementation of the Endangered Species Act and other core wildlife protection laws. Source: National Wildlife Federation

Case Studies

• Natural Heritage Conservation Field Notes: Read the latest issue of the DNR's Field Notes. Source: DNR
• Wildlife Success Stories: Through collaborative partnerships, bold efforts, and decisive investments, conservationists have recovered wildlife species that have suffered dramatic declines and even brought back species that had gone extinct in the wild. Source: National Wildlife Federation

Best Management Practices

• Citizen Based Monitoring: Volunteer to help monitor and conserve endangered species in Wisconsin. Source: DNR
• Endangered Resources Fund: Donate to help conserve endangered species in Wisconsin. Source: DNR
• Help Conserve Karner Blue Butterflies: Wisconsin has an abundance of habitats that support the world’s largest populations of the federally endangered Karner blue butterfly. Source: DNR
• Species Guidance Documents: Peer-reviewed publications with comprehensive information for rare species that includes identification, life history, management guidelines, screening guidance and avoidance measures. Source: DNR
• Wisconsin Wildlife Action Plan: A platform to help partners, organizations and individuals identify and implement important conservation actions to keep our natural resources healthy. Source: DNR

Tools

• Landowner Incentive Program: The program provides management advice, assistance with management plans and cost-share funding to individuals and organizations on private lands, with a focus on the Driftless Area of Wisconsin. Source: DNR
• Natural Heritage Inventory Public Portal: A free online mapping application for planning on-the-ground projects to learn if a project may have impacts on endangered resources. Source: DNR

Invasive Species

Best Management Practices

• Phragmites Management Strategy: Guidance on managing invasive phragmites in Wisconsin. Source: DNR

Landscaping

General Information and Data

• Landscaping Tips: Ideas for developing a water-smart landscape for your facility. Source: EPA
• Pollinator Conservation Resources: Region-specific collections of publications, native seed vendors, and other resources to aid in pollinator habitat in the Great Lakes Region. Source: Xerces
• WildOnes Partnership: Information on landscaping with native plants. Source: WildOnes

Articles and Websites

• Sustainable Lawns: 8 steps: 8 eco-friendly ways to cultivate a more sustainable lawn. Source: The Grow Network
• Sustainable Lawns: Alternatives: 7 alternatives to create an eco-friendlier lawn. Source: My Green Closet

Case Studies

• Country Club Changes Course and Uses a Drone to Deliver Savings: La Rinconada Country Club reduced peak water use by 54 million gallons with a bird's eye view to their landscape water management plan which included a switch to native species. Source: EPA
• Irrigation Professional Harvests Gold From Water-Saving Products: Following an audit by a certified professional, a Colorado neighborhood saves over 4 million gallons of water per year with updated irrigation product. Source: EPA
• Office Complex Reduces Outdoor Water Use: The Granite Park office complex in Plano, Texas, saved 12.5 million gallons in one year through efficiencies in technology and maintenance of irrigation system. Source: EPA
• Shopping Mall Buys into Outdoor Water Savings: The Village at Stone Oak saved 14 million gallons of water annually with beautiful, water-efficient landscaping upgrades. They replaced turf grass with drought-tolerant plant species and increased the efficiency of their irrigation system. Source: EPA

Best Management Practices

• Commercial Landscape Best Practices: Quick read on mulch, shrub shaping, raised tree canopies, equipment, mowing, limiting fertilizer, leaves and debris. Source: Klausing Group
• Urban Gardening: How to grow gardens in urban and potentially contaminated soils. Source: EPA

Tools

• Bee-Safe Plants: Guide to choosing plants that create a welcoming home for pollinators. Source: Xerces
• Mosquito Management: Ways to align important public health efforts, such as mosquito management, with pollinator protection goals. Source: Xerces
• Pesticide Contamination Protection: Guidance to protect habitats from pesticide contamination. Source: Xerces
• Pollinator Friendly Public Spaces: Planning and managing public spaces with pollinators and other insects in mind. Source: Xerces
• Pollinator Habitat Assessment: Guide to landscaping for pollinators in yards, gardens and parks. Source: Xerces
• Pollinator Plants Guide: Guide to planting a rich habitat to support pollinators. Source: Xerces
• Wildflower Establishment Guide: Organic site preparation for successfully installing wildflowers for pollinator habitat. Source: Xerces

Restoration Projects

General Information and Data

• Conservation Banking: Learn about an open market tool that creates incentives for bank developers and landowners to conserve land in areas where drivers are creating a need for offset impacts to specific species and habitats. Source: Conservation Finance Network
• Forests Reserve Program: Helps restore, enhance and protect healthy forestland resources. Source: USDA
• Great Lakes Restoration Initiative: Learn what plans are underway and see where your facility might tie-in. Source: EPA
• State Natural Areas Volunteer Program: Learn about volunteer opportunities around the state to help care for some of our state's most pristine public lands. Source: DNR
• *Wetland Restoration Information: Basic information about wetland restoration. Source: EPA
• *Wetland Restoration Planning: Resources and information about wetland restoration. Source: DNR
• Wisconsin Restoration Contractors: A list of companies and individuals who operate as consultants or contractors in Wisconsin and the surrounding areas. Source: DNR

Case Studies

• Restoration Through Stream Corridor Rehabilitation: Success story from agricultural sources near Pheasant Valley Branch. Source: EPA
• Restoration Through Phosphorus Reductions: Success story from agricultural sources near Bass Lake. Source: EPA

Best Management Practices

• Beaver Restoration Guidebook: Learn how beavers can be a tool to restore streams and wetlands. Source: USFWS
• Help Conserve Native Plants: Native plants support the entire food web by providing food for insects, birds, bats, small mammals and other wildlife. Conserving native plants is particularly important now that scientists are documenting global declines in insect populations. Source: DNR
• Wetland Restoration Guidelines: Guidelines for voluntary wetland restoration. Source: DNR

Financial Assistance

• Easements and Financial Assistance: Financial assistance for habitat conservation through easements. Source: USDA
• Wetlands Conservation Grants: Competitive, matching grants program supporting partnerships for wetland protection. Source: USFWS
• Wetlands Conservation Trust: Funding for wetland restoration projects. Source: DNR

Transportation

Alternate Fuels

General Information and Data

• Alternative Fuels: Definitions of alternative fuel types for transportation. Source: U.S. Department of Energy
• *Alternative Fuels & Advance Vehicle: A listing of available alternative fuels and the vehicle types associated with them. Source: U.S. Department of Energy
• *Alternative Fuels Characterization: Alternative fuels for renewable, biodegradable vehicle fuels markets. Source: NREL

Articles and Websites

• Engine Alternative Fuel Conversions: Conversion systems modify vehicles and engines so that they can run on different fuels than the ones for which they were originally designed. Source: EPA
• The 'messy middle': How trucking will get to an electric future: An article on an incremental approach to adopting clean fuel technologies. Source: FreightWaves

Case Studies

• Case Studies about Alternative transportation technologiess: Find case studies and success stories about alternative transportation technologies, including alternative fuels, advanced vehicles, and regulated fleets. Source: U.S. Department of Energy
• Fleet Vehicle Case Study: A collection of case studies featuring commercial fleets that have reduced fuel use, fuel costs, and emissions. Source: Alternate Fuel Toolkit

Tools

• *Alternative Fuel Toolkit: The Alternative Fuel Toolkit can help you learn about alternative fuels and vehicles; plan your infrastructure and funding; and act using the AFV Action Guide, facilitation materials, and other resources. Resources were developed in conjunction with a set of national workshops and reflect the latest stakeholder-input and research. Source: Alternative Fuel Toolkit
• *Alternative Fuels Data Center: The Alternative Fuels Data Center provides info on solutions to energy & economic goals using alternative fuels and advanced vehicles. Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Webinar

• Real-life Lessons for Trucking's Clean Future: Hear from industry leaders on trucking's role in our supply chain, how it has evolved, and how the industry will evolve into its green future. Source: GreenBiz

Commuter

General Information and Data

• Ride Sharing Programs Source: US Department of Transportation
• Smart Commuter Engagement for a changing workplace and world: Connect your commuters, provide transportation options, and reward sustainable choices. Source: RideAmigos

Case Studies

• A Compelling Case for Employer Commuter Programs: An all-inclusive commuter program from The Rideshare Company based on its easy commute platform that integrates all the tools and support needed to make a measurable impact. Source: The Rideshare Company
• Managing and Growing a Commuter Program: University of Minnesota's effective commuter program. Source: PlayCore

Fuel Conservation

General Information and Data

• Strategies to Conserve Fuel Source: Alternative Fuels Data Center

Videos

• Printer Webinar on Transportation. Growing Profits in 2020: Transportation and Emissions Reductions, featuring EPA SmartWay, UPS Right-size shipping and a case-study from a WI printer. Source: EPA

Logistics/Supply Chain

General Information and Data

• EPA's SmartWay Program: EPA's SmartWay program helps companies advance supply chain sustainability by measuring, benchmarking, and improving freight transportation efficiency. Source: EPA

Articles and Websites

• Five Tips to Navigate Sustainable Logistics: Business practices to apply to increase sustainability within logistics operations. Source: Forbes
• Green Freight: There are huge financial incentives for reducing the environmental impact from freight. By employing smarter logistics strategies, businesses can operate more efficiently and affordably. Source: Supply Chain Solutions Center

Case Studies

• Success Stories: Case Studies in Supply Chain Engagement: Case studies showcasing companies that have developed and deployed innovative strategies to engage their supply chains, reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, understand their shifting supply chain risks, and take advantage of market opportunities. Source: EPA
• Supply Chain Case Studies: How CDP supply chain members are tackling emissions in their supply chains. Source: CDP
• Supply Chain Case Studies: A library of case studies that explore supply chain problems and solutions. Source: SCM Globe

Programs

General Information and Data

• Right-Size Packaging: Definition & Benefits Source: Oliverinc.com
• Why Freight Matters to Supply Chain Sustainability Source: EPA

Articles and Websites

• Four sustainable shipping practices your business should implement Source: Sustain.Life
• Green Shipping 101: 9 Best Practices for Eco-Friendly Shipping Source: ShipBob
• How to Save on Shipping While Reducing Packaging Waste Source: PartnerShip
• What Are the Benefits of Getting the Right Size Packaging? Source: PolyPak

Case Studies

• COMPASS Helping to Power UPS Eco Responsible Packaging Program Source: Trayak

Certification

• SmartWay: SmartWay program helps companies advance supply chain sustainability by measuring, benchmarking, and improving freight transportation efficiency. Source: EPA
• The Supply Chain, Goods Movement and U.S. EPA SmartWay!: Finding ways to reduce the energy, environmental impacts and costs of moving consumer goods, supplies and other freight is becoming increasingly important. Learn how EPA, industry and other stakeholders collaborate through SmartWay. Source: EPA

Videos

• EPA, The Supply Chain, Goods Movement and U.S. EPA SmartWay!: Finding ways to reduce the energy, environmental impacts and costs of moving consumer goods, supplies and other freight is becoming increasingly important. Learn how EPA, industry and other stakeholders collaborate through SmartWay. Source: EPA

Route Management

Articles and Websites

• Increasing Sustainability in LTL Trucking with Route Optimization Source: SupplyChainBrain

Waste Reduction & Materials Management

Alternative or Beneficial Reuse

Articles and Websites

• Circular Economy - Incorporating Beneficial Reuse: Source: Veolia
• Industrial Byproducts - WI DNR's beneficial reuse program: Information on Wisconsin's voluntary beneficial use of industrial byproducts program. Source: DNR
• Non-Hazardous Materials - EPA's Methodology for Evaluating Beneficial Uses: EPA's approach for evaluating a wide range of industrial non-hazardous secondary materials and their associated beneficial uses. Use of the methodology is voluntary. Source: EPA

Case Studies

• Beneficial Reuse - Kohler Co.: How Kohler beneficial reuse program finds markets for their industrial wastes. Source: Kohler

Circular Economy

Articles and Websites

• *Circular Economy - Basics: An explanation and overview of what a circular economy is and examples of a circular economy in action. Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation
• Circular Economy - Building a Circular Economy: A look at how the collaboration of public and private entities can build an impactful circular economy in their communities. Source: Resource Recycling
• Circular Great Lakes Organization: Circular Great Lakes, a binational, collaborative initiative of the Council of the Great Lakes Region, seeks to end plastic waste by closing the loop and accelerating a circular economy for plastics across the region. Source: Circular Great Lakes
• *Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Explaining EPR policies and how it could affect producers. Source: Eco-Cycle
• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Providing the FAQs on EPRs as several states consider new legislation. Source: GreenBiz
• Reuse of Commercial and Industrial Waste: Pairing waste with companies ready to reuse. Source: Popular Mechanics

Certification

• Certification - UL Product Circularity: UL's certification for Measuring and Reporting Circular Economy Aspects of Products, Sites & Organizations. Source: UL

Composting

Articles and Websites

• Composting - Implementing a program at work: Ideas on implementing a composting program at your business. Source: Earth 911

E-Cycling

Articles and Websites

• *Certification: R2 Certification for E-waste: Learn about the R2 Certification and how it continues to grow and build capacity of qualified reuse and recycling facilities around the world. Source: SERI
• *E-waste - Best disposal options: Weighing the options on the best disposal method for your business. Source: SERI
• E-waste - DNR's options to manage disposal (WA-420): More options for businesses, schools, institutions, nonprofits and governments, especially if you have a large number of electronics to recycle. Source: DNR
• E-waste - How to hold an e-cycle event: Source: DNR
• E-waste - Sustainable Disposal options: Options and suggestions for sustainable disposal of electronic waste. Source: Yale
• *E-waste - The World has an e-waste problem: Information on the E-waste problem and the idea of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws. Source: TIME

General Waste Reduction

Articles and Websites

• Construction Waste - Diversion efforts for construction and demolition waste Source: WasteCap
• Waste Reduction - Effective waste management and performing a waste reduction audit: This publication explains the current waste minimization requirements, gives you a strategy for waste management, and tells you how to prepare for and perform a waste reduction audit. Source: University of MO

Videos

• Pollution Prevention Mini-Webinar: Waste Reduction: Learn about three different approaches that companies took to reduce material use. Source: Minnesota Technical Assistance Program
• Waste Reduction - Options for challenging waste streams: A showcase of one non-landfill disposal option for challenging waste streams in the printing industry. These solutions can be applied to non-recyclable wastes in other industries. Source: WI Printing Charter

Hazardous Waste

Articles and Websites

• Hazardous Waste - EPA's recycling Guidelines Source: EPA

Recycling

Articles and Websites

• Hazardous Waste - EPA's guidelines for legitimate recycling: EPA guidelines for what constitutes legitimate recycling of hazardous waste. Source: EPA
• Industrial Waste - Ways to reduce, reuse or recycle waste streams: Suggestions on ways to reduce, reuse or recycle waste streams in your facility. Source: AbsorbTech
• Recycling - Business & workplace tips from the WI DNR: WI DNR's information on best recycling management tips for various industries and material types. Source: DNR
• *Waste Reduction - EPA's Waste Management Hierarchy: EPA developed the non-hazardous materials and waste management hierarchy in recognition that no single waste management approach is suitable for managing all materials and waste streams in all circumstances. The hierarchy ranks the various management strategies from most to least environmentally preferred. The hierarchy places emphasis on reducing, reusing, and recycling as key to sustainable materials management. Source: EPA
• WI Recycling Excellence Awards: These award-winning recycling initiatives can provide inspiration and detail processes you could incorporate in your industry or community. Source: DNR

Case Studies

• St. Croix County Recycling Re-use Challenge: A fun way to engage employees and residents in creative thinking about how waste can be transformed into a resource. St. Croix County

Tools

• Betterbin – an app that harnesses the power of data to make localized recycling, composting and food waste prevention education relevant, convenient and accessible to all consumers.
• Paper Recycling - Recycled Paper Content Calculator: A free tool to calculate the impacts of the paper you use and compare to impacts of different papers with varying amounts of recycled content. Source: Environmental Paper Network
• Recycling - WI Recycling Directory: WasteCap's Wisconsin Recycling Directory provides a single place to search for haulers, processors and drop-off sites for a large range of materials in Wisconsin, mapping their locations, providing business profiles and handling instructions. Source: WasteCap
• Recycling - WI Recycling Markets Directory: Information about and connects users to outlets for recycling various materials. Source: UWGB
• Repurposed Materials – an on-line store that helps re-purpose industrial materials.
• Waste Reduction - EPA Waste Reduction Model (WARM): EPA created the Waste Reduction Model (WARM) to help track and voluntarily report greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions, energy savings and economic impacts from several different waste management practices. Source: EPA

Universal Waste

Articles and Websites

• *Universal Waste - DNR's details on management: Details on Universal Waste requirements including classifications, and best management practices for collection and disposal. Source: DNR

Waste to Energy

Articles and Websites

• *Waste-to-Energy - EPA's info on the combustion of solid waste: EPA's information on energy recovery from the combustion of solid waste. Source: EPA

Zero Waste to Landfill

Articles and Websites

• *Net-Zero - 3 ways to embrace a net-zero mindset Source: GreenBiz
• Zero waste to Landfill - Definition: A definition of Zero Waste-to-Landfill and the waste hierarchy. Source: Covanta

Certification

• Certification - Intertek's Zero Waste to Landfill: The Intertek certification provides physical and financial resource savings through conservation and reuse efforts. Source: Intertek Group
• Certification - True Zero Waste: The TRUE certification program is used by facilities to define, pursue and achieve their zero waste goals, cut their carbon footprint and support public health. Source: USGBC
• Certification -& UL Landfill Diversion: UL's Standard for zero waste and waste diversion claims. Source: UL

Tools

• Waste Reduction - Waste Audits: Waste audits identify waste streams, how it got there, possible diversions, and potential value streams. Source: WasteCap

Videos

• Zero waste to Landfill - UL Circularity Workshop: Webinar workshop introduction to waste diversion and UL's standard 2799 - Zero Waste to Landfill Program. Source: UL

Water quality & conservation

Drinking Water

Best Management Practices

• *What you can do to protect the quality of the drinking water in your area: List of steps anyone can take to protect the quality of the drinking water in your area. Source: EPA

Videos

• *Protecting the People - Safe Drinking Water for All: Discussion about WI drinking water system. Source: DNR

PFAS

General Information and Data

• *Learn More about PFAS: Overview of PFAS. Source: Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District
• *What Your Business Can Do About PFAS: Separate Lists for Consumers and Businesses on Ways to Reduce PFAS. Source: Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District

Articles and Websites

• *Water treatment tips for your business: Discuss the type of water treatment systems that filter out PFAS chemicals. Source: Besco Commercial

Storm water & flood resilience

General Information and Data

• *Green Infrastructure Overview Source: MMSD
• *Permeable Pavement Overview Source: EPA
• *Storm Water Management Overview Source: EEC

Case Studies

• *Green Luminary Examples: Green Luminary tips and practical examples. Source: Madison Metropolitan Sewerage District

Best Management Practices

• *Best Management Practices to reduce storm water runoff and pollution: List of Best Management Practices to reduce storm water runoff and pollution. Source: Storm Water Partners
• *Protect our Lakes and Streams - Help Stop Polluted Runoff: Overview of Problems Caused by Storm water Runoff and How Best to Manage It. Source: DNR
• *Storm Water Best Management Practices: Photo examples of storm water BMPs for commercial, residential, and industrial sites. Source: DNR
• *Storm Water Best Management Practices: Storm water best management practices for Public Education, Public Involvement, Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination, Construction, Post-Construction, and Pollution Prevention. Source: EPA
• *Storm Water Best Management Practices: Storm water pollution prevention. Source: EPA

Tools

• *Commercial Rainwater Harvesting Guidebook: Intro to Commercial Rainwater Harvesting. Source: City of Milwaukee
• Green Values Calculator: Calculator tool comparing the performance, costs, sand benefits of using Green Infrastructure instead of conventional storm water management practices. Source: Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT)
• *Permit Primer: What kind of permit do I need to manage my water runoff? Source: DNR

Wastewater

General Information and Data

• "The Phosphorous Rule" from DNR: Overview of Phosphorous and how the WI DNR regulates it. Source: DNR
• Basic Information about Biosolids: Overview of biosolids including the different classes and origins. Source: EPA
• Overview of Multi-discharger Phosphorus Variance (MPV): Description, requirements, and payment info regarding MDVs in Wisconsin. Source: DNR
• Overview of Runoff Rules for Farmers and Financial Assistance Options: High level overview of rules all Wisconsin farmers have to follow in managing their runoff as well as related financial assistance and permits. Source: DNR
• PFAS Guidance for Businesses: April 2022 Memo from EPA outlining PFAS guidance and recommendations based on industry and permit type. Source: EPA
• Simple Tips to Improve Wastewater Treatment: List of basic changes or best practices to minimize the amount of treatment your wastewater needs. Source: The 71 Percent
• Wastewater Treatment Technology 4 Examples of New Wastewater Treatment Technology. Source: AOS Treatment Solutions

Tools

• Agricultural Financial Assistance: List of grants available to Wisconsin farmers in their efforts to control nonpoint source pollution. Source: DNR

Videos

• Pollution Prevention Mini-Webinar - Wastewater Energy Efficiency: Learn about strategies to save energy in wastewater treatment. Source: Minnesota Technical Assistance Program
• Overview of Multi-discharger Phosphorus Variance (MDV): Webinar discussing MDVs and Eligibility. Source: DNR

Water Management

General Information and Data

• List of Recommendations for Water Savings based on Facility Type: Although each type of commercial building faces unique challenges, facility managers can achieve significant water savings indoors and outdoors by adopting more water-efficient equipment and operational practices. Source: EPA

Articles and Websites

• 7 Ways Businesses Can Save Water at the Office: Quick outline of steps businesses can take to manage water use. Source: Smarter Business
• Analyzing Water Use in your Workplace: List of steps to take to analyze your water use and identify areas of conservation. Source: Queensland Government
• Business Water Conservation Tips: Interactive and Industry-Specific tips to reduce water usage. Source: Ireland's National Water Utility
• How Businesses can Reduce their Water Usage: Everyday operational updates businesses can make to reduce water use. Source: Green Journal UK
• Recommendations for Businesses on how to save Water in the Workplace: Saving water in the workplace - Recommendations for any business. Source: Living Water Smart
• Water Conservation for Businesses: Small Changes Business can make to reduce water use. Source: Ireland's National Water Utility

Case Studies

• Case Study on Reducing Outdoor Water Use at an Office Building: Learn about how an office complex in Plano, TX reduced its water use by 40% by upgrading its irrigation systems and changing maintenance practices. Source: EPA
• Case Study Showing How an Office Building in Texas Reduced its Water Use: Through indoor and outdoor improvements, an office building in Texas reduced its overall water consumption by 40%. Source: EPA

Best Management Practices

• Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities: A compilation of water-efficiency best management practices, to help commercial and institutional facility owners and managers understand and better manage their water use. Source: EPA
• Best Management Practices: Water Management Planning: Outline of what to include in a strategic plan to manage water use. Source: Energy.gov
• How Businesses can Conserve Water: List of Best Management Practices businesses can take to conserve water. Source: PG&E
• *Saving Water in Office Buildings: List of Best Management Practices to conserve water in an office building setting. Source: EPA
• Water Use Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities: Outline of basic steps commercial facilities can take to reduce water use. Source: EPA

Tools

• Operations and Maintenance Water Waste Checklist for Commercial and Institutional Facilities: Checklist to identify potential leaks or losses and maintenance practices that will save water, energy, and operating costs. Source: EPA
• Water Assessment Checklist: Checklist to identify potential projects and best management practices that will save water, energy, and operating costs. Source: EPA
• WaterSense at Work: Best Management Practices for Commercial and Institutional Facilities [Excel exit DNR]: Water Use Fillable Action Plan and Corresponding Worksheets for Facilities trying to reduce water use. Source: EPA

Videos

• *Overview of How Water Gets to a Home: Find out about the water service a typical residential water bill covers, and the costs of delivering a consistent, reliable flow of safe and affordable drinking water to your faucet. Source: Alliance for Water Efficiency
• *Overview Water Rates and How to Conserve Water: Learn about what goes into water rates and a helpful overview on key conservation tactics. Source: Alliance for Water Efficiency

Water Protection

Tools

• Forests to Faucets Watershed Map: The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service Forests to Faucets project uses GIS to model and map the continental United States land areas most important to surface drinking water, the role forests play in protecting these areas, and the extent to which these forests are threatened by development, insects and disease, and wildland fire. Source: USDA

Water Quality

Articles and Websites

• *Framing a multi-stakeholder approach to water security: Explains the importance of a collaborative approach to maintaining water quality. Source: International Water Association

Water Use

Best Management Practices

• *Best Management Practices to help commercial and institutional facilities understand and manage their water use: List of water management practices. Source: EPA
  • Water Efficiency Resources for Commerical, Industrial, Commercial Sector : See recommendations for increasing water use efficiency. Source: Alliance for Water Efficiency

Videos

• Pollution Prevention Mini-Webinar - Water Conservation: Learn about two common solutions for water reduction. Source: Minnesota Technical Assistance Program

Have a resource suggestion? Help keep this list up to date by sending ideas for helpful and innovative resources to DNRGREENTIER@Wisconsin.gov.