The Leaf Rating System
To help customers understand some of the green business practices the vendors we work with are employing at the company level, the GBG provides each vendor and service provider with a leaf rating. The leaf system has been constructed to accommodate large companies, independent artisans and non-profits. Although there are five leaves, it is rare that more than three will apply to any given vendor. Each company or service provider can earn one leaf for each of the following:
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Mission: The company has a mission statement that explicitly outlines their commitment to the environment. |
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Type: The company is a non-profit OR an independent artisan selling only handmade products. |
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Certifications: The company is certified by or is a member of one of the following trust providers (International Eco-tourism Society, Green Hotels Association, Green Restaurant Association, BnBScape, Green Globe, Green Seal, Fair Trade Federation, Co-op America, B-Corp). |
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Eco-Friendly: Product manufacturers and retailers can earn this leaf if they exclusively produce or carry eco-friendly products (a.k.a. only products that qualify for listing on the site based on the category criteria described on the site.) Service providers can earn this leaf if they exclusively market themselves as green vendors and offer eco-friendly services (e.g. are an organic catering company or a dressmaker using sustainable materials like hemp and organic cotton). |
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Practices: The company incorporates at least five of the following at their place of business (recycling, composting, CFL lights, work in LEED certified building, 1% For the Planet, Energy Star Appliances, powered by alternative energy, carbon offsetting, recycled paper packaging, biodegradable cleaners, or recycled paper products. |
