WMSBF October 13 Membership Meeting

Cascade Engineering, Grand Rapids

Introductions:

Marylu Dysktra: Thank you for coming.  Everyone was asked to state their name and their organization.

Presentation: David Rinard

David Rinard of Steelcase presented a brief overview of the history leading up to the current need for carbon management strategy:

q       Prior to the global warming crisis, an increase in carbon emissions was viewed as a positive in that it represented a more complete combustion of other materials.

q       In 1997, the Kyoto Treaty outlined the need to reduce all greenhouse emissions, including CO2

q       Current regulation is regional in nature including different efforts in California, the Great Lakes, and New England.

q       The US-EPA has issued notice of proposed rulemaking, indicating the likelihood of federal regulation standards being implementing in the next year or two.

Presentation: Mark LaCroix

Mark LaCroix introduced The GreenLife Organization as a creation of RNK Capital, LLC, specializing in carbon management solutions.  To explain the need for carbon management strategies, he explained that Carbon in the atmosphere prior to the Industrial Revolution was 280 parts per million (ppm), is now at 384 ppm is where we are now, and headed for 550+ ppm.  We must stop at 450 ppm to avoid a greater than two-degree Celsius increase in temperatures.  To slow and stop increased levels, we must voluntarily diminish our carbon footprints through an approach that includes avoiding, reducing, replacing, and offsetting carbon emissions.  LaCroix then described carbon offsets including what factors make for valuable offsets, how offsets are originated, and how they are registered and tracked. 

Introduction: Elissa Sangalli Hillary

Marylu introduced Elissa Sangalli Hillary, Executive Director of Local First, who then gave a brief description of the organization and its benefits – primarily in supporting and promoting local businesses.  Marylu suggested that WMSBF may want to consider membership in Local First.

Presentation: Lisa Locke

Lisa Locke of Sustainable Research Group discussed the newly launched West Michigan Sustainable Purchasing Consortium.  At this time, office paper purchases may be made by members but in the future more products will be available.  Membership is free through June 2009.  More information can be found at their website: www.wmspc.org

Announcements-

q       The State Sustainable Business Conference, hosted by the Southwest Michigan Sustainable Business Forum at WMU, will be on November 13.  Visit www.swmsbf.org for details.

q       Brian Shulz brought up the state’s Green Jobs Initiative and suggested the WMSBF might be able to find a role in programs.

q       Rachel Hood offered the following updates from WMEAC:

o        The Grand River Cleanup in September was a success.

o        There may be opportunities for volunteers and sponsors with Project Light Change

o        November 4 is election day – remember to fill out the non-partisan section of your ballot as there have been important decisions regarding Michigan’s Environmental Protection Act in recent years.

o        December 3^rd will be WMEAC’s 40^th anniversary event.  There are sponsorship opportunities available.

E-mails are now being included in the minutes to facilitate greater communication among members