Thursday, March 13, 2008

Green D.C., Maryland & Virginia (Green DMV)

Philip E. O'Neal, left, is the founder of GreenDMV.org, a new organization that seeks to create a socially responsible culture throughout the Washington Metropolitan Area and change the mindset of area businesses to think both sustainably and profitably. DMV stands for District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia. Mr. O'Neal believes we can start by cultivating environmental awareness and action in area manufacturing sectors and in the small business community. Small and disadvantaged businesses within the manufacturing industry need certified standards for social and environmental responsibility at every stage of their business. The certification process should be both affordable and contain sound environmental standards so that businesses that incorporate these standards to minimize energy usage and waste within their operations can increase market share, reduce overhead expenditures and most importantly reduce CO2 emissions that harm our environment.

O'Neal's goal and the goal of GreenDMV is to see that a contribution to sustainable environmental practices is made within the small and disadvantaged business community. GreenDMV is currently working to make sure that such businesses not only meet certain environmental qualification standards for doing business with the federal government, but to also establish a certification similar to the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). FSC is a membership association that is open to a wide range of organizations and individuals representing social, economic and environmental interests. By becoming a member, you show your commitment to promote responsible management of the world's forest and you get to participate in FSC decision-making processes. Mr. O'Neal has a B.S. in Geology from Elizabeth City State University in NC and has worked in the Printing Industry for 13 years.

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