ANNAPOLIS, MD) June 23, 2009 - Today Governor O’Malley launched the Maryland Green Registry as part of the State’s Smart, Green and Growing initiative. The Registry is a new voluntary program to promote and recognize sustainable “greening” efforts by organizations of all types and sizes within the state.

Membership is free and encourages businesses, churches, schools, governments, and other organizations to share information on the practices they have in place to reduce the environmental impact of their facilities and services.

“Maryland businesses and other organizations already know that even relatively simple steps to reduce our impact on the environment save money and create a healthier workplace,” said Governor Martin O’Malley. “The Maryland Green Registry provides an opportunity for these organizations to share their stories and inspire others to take steps to protect our air and our water, including the Chesapeake Bay.”

To become a member, Maryland organizations are encouraged to visit the Maryland Green Registry website at www.green.maryland.gov and complete a best practices profile. The registry includes checklists for best practices in the areas of environmental management and leadership; waste reduction; energy and water conservation; transportation; and green building design. The checklists offer examples of activities to be included in the organization’s profile, as well as inspiration and ideas for future efforts.

Participating organizations will receive a Green Registry sticker for display, and profiles will be posted online to demonstrate each member’s environmental commitment.

“We wanted these organizations to have a place to showcase their environmentally friendly practices and to serve as a model for other businesses and groups,” added Governor O’Malley.

Introduced by Governor Martin O’Malley in October 2008, Smart, Green & Growing was created to foster a smarter, greener, more sustainable future for Maryland families. The Initiative is bringing together state agencies, local governments, businesses and citizens to revitalize communities, improve transit, create green jobs, address climate change, conserve energy, preserve land, and restore the Chesapeake Bay.

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