A Business Guide to U.S. EPA 

Climate Partnership Programs 

EPA-100-B-08-001 | June 2008 | www.epa.gov 
A Business Guide to U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 

Version 1.0 

June 2008 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW 

Washington, DC 20460 

Acknowledgments 

This guide was written and produced by the National Center for Environmental Innovation at the 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

Business for Social Responsibility (BSR), the global business membership organization that specializes in corporate responsibility, has helped conceive this guide and provided critical input. 

The EPA would like to thank Barbara-Anne Mansfield, Eric Olson, Ryan Schuchard, and Emma Stewart, of BSR; 

Joel Makower of GreenBiz; and Brian Swett, formerly with BSR. We would also like to thank Dennis Canavan of 

Johnson & Johnson; Ronald E. Meissen, Ph.D., of Baxter Healthcare Corporation; and Steven C. Schultz of the 

3M Company. 

How to Obtain Copies 

You can electronically download copies of this document from the EPA Partnership Programs Web site at 

<www.epa.gov/partners>. 
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Contents
 

Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 3
 

Why Climate Change Is a Business Issue.......................................................................... 3
 

Why EPA Partnership Programs?......................................................................................
 

Climate Strategy for Business ......................................................................................... 6
 

Program Finder Table .......................................................................................................... 8
 

Program Profiles ...............................................................................................................
 

AgStar..............................................................................................................................................................................10
 

Combined Heat and Power Partnership...........................................................................................................................
 

ENERGY STAR Industry................................................................................................................................................
 

GreenScapes ....................................................................................................................................................................
 

Lean and the Environment Initiative ...............................................................................................................................
 

Outdoor Hydronic Heaters ..............................................................................................................................................
 

Best Workplaces for Commuters.....................................................................................................................................11 

Coalbed Methane Outreach Program ..............................................................................................................................12
 

Climate Leaders...............................................................................................................................................................13 

Coal Combustion Products Partnership...........................................................................................................................14 

Design for the Environment Safer Product Recognition Program ..................................................................................16
 

Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT).......................................................................................17
 

ENERGY STAR Labeling...............................................................................................................................................18
 

ENERGY STAR Commercial Buildings.........................................................................................................................19
 

ENERGY STAR Qualified New Homes .........................................................................................................................21
 

Great American Woodstove Changeout Campaign .........................................................................................................22 

GreenChill Advanced Refrigeration Partnership.............................................................................................................23
 

Green Power Partnership.................................................................................................................................................24 

Green Suppliers Network (GSN).....................................................................................................................................26
 

Home Performance with ENERGY STAR......................................................................................................................27
 

Laboratories for the 21st Century....................................................................................................................................28
 

Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP) ................................................................................................................29
 

Methane to Markets Partnership......................................................................................................................................31
 

Mobile Air Conditioning Climate Protection Partnership...............................................................................................32
 

National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency ....................................................................................................................33
 

Natural Gas STAR...........................................................................................................................................................34
 

Performance Track (National Environmental Performance Track).................................................................................36
 

PFC Emission Reduction Partnership .............................................................................................................................37
 

Plug-In to eCycling..........................................................................................................................................................38
 

Responsible Appliance Disposal Program.......................................................................................................................39 

Table of Contents 1 
SF6

 Emission Reduction Partnership for Electric Power Systems ..................................................................................40
 

Smart Growth Network ...................................................................................................................................................41
 

SmartWay Transport Partnership.....................................................................................................................................42 

Voluntary Aluminum Industrial Partnership....................................................................................................................43
 

WasteWise .......................................................................................................................................................................44
 

WaterSense ......................................................................................................................................................................45
 

Appendix A: Resources...................................................................................................... 47
 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to present this Business Guide to U.S. EPA 

Climate Partnership Programs. This guide, developed in response to requests from the non-profit business organization, BSR, and others, is designed to help you identify those EPA Partnership Programs that 

make the most sense for your business and climate stewardship. 

How to Use this Guide 

This guide has been designed to make it as easy as possible for businesses to find the EPA Partnership Programs 

that are most relevant to their businesses. 

Step 1—Find programs applicable to your industry using the Program Finder Table. 

Step 2—Review Program Profiles for the programs applicable to your industry. The “Program Profiles” 

section of this guide provides a profile of each climate-related EPA Partnership Program, listed in 

alphabetical order. A program Web site and contact is provided in each of the program profiles for 

further information. 

Step 3—Contact the programs to learn more about program benefits, services, resources, and commitments required. 

Step 4—Consider participation in a program. 

2 A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

Introduction
 

The Climate Risk 

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate 

Change (IPCC), warming of the climate system is unequivocal. Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are at their highest levels 

in at least 400,000 years. Climate change is increasingly a 

priority for consumers and investors. Ultimately, businesses must respond to the priorities of their consumers and 

investors, as represented by their purchase and investment 

decisions. 

The Business Opportunity 

Energy represents a major cost but also a major opportunity for American business. American businesses and 

consumers are realizing that getting the most out of their 

energy dollars just makes sense. By making smart energy 

choices, millions of household and business energy consumers save billions of dollars each year. In 2006 alone, 

with the help of EPA’s ENERGY STAR® program, Americans saved $14 billion on their energy bills while preventing the GHG emissions equivalent to 25 million vehicles. 

Companies can benefit in two ways: 

1) By addressing climate impacts in their own operations 

and driving waste out of manufacturing, transport, and 

delivery functions. 

2) Carving out a share of the growing market in more 

efficient, cleaner products and services. 

The Value of EPA Partnership Programs 

Many signs suggest the business community is beginning to confront the climate issue on a wide scale. There 

are now more than 13,000 firms and other organizations 

participating in climate-related EPA Partnership Programs. 

Through participation, these organizations have invested in 

energy efficiency, clean energy supply, and other climatefriendly technologies,1

 reaping value such as: 

• Substantial energy cost savings. 

• Improved operating efficiencies. 

• Improved risk management. 

• Expanded market opportunities. 

• Improved job satisfaction, employee recruiting, and 

worker productivity. 

• Enhanced brand and corporate reputation. 

EPA Partnership Programs also offer partners a wide 

variety of valuable services and resources to reduce GHG 

emissions. 

Why Climate Change Is a Business 

Issue 

This guide explains how EPA Partnership Programs fit into 

an action agenda for business. Specifically, taking action 

on climate can contribute to your business in at least five 

ways: 

1. Addressing climate change can save your company 

money. 

The editor of Harvard Business Review wrote in October 

2007: 

Thoughtful business people need a structure— 

now—with which to organize ideas about climate 

change so they can understand how it affects their 

strategy, their operations, and the context in which 

they compete, in order to make plans and take 

action—now.”2 

In the past decade, numerous studies have documented 

the savings businesses realize by improving the energy 

efficiency of their operations. By making smart energy 

choices, millions of household and business consumers 

save billions of dollars each year. 

2. Addressing climate change can reduce business 

risks.
 

As Daniel C. Esty and Andrew S. Winston point out in 

Green to Gold, 

Environmental missteps can create public relations nightmares, destroy markets and careers, and 

knock billions off the value of a company. Companies that do not add environmental thinking to their 

strategy arsenal risk missing upside opportunities 

in markets that are increasingly shaped by environmental factors.3 

Given the growing prominence of the climate issue, rapidly 

evolving state and national energy policies, rising world 

energy costs, the climate-related risks and risk-avoidance 

opportunities are substantial. Your customers and suppliers 

might also be affected by these same dynamics and therefore search for suppliers who take climate change seriously. 

1 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2007, September). ENERGY STAR and Other Climate Protection Partnerships: 2006 Annual Report. 

http://www.energystar.gov/ia/news/downloads/annual_report_2006.pdf 

2 Stewart, T. (2007, October). From the Editor, Hot Water. Harvard Business Review. 

3 Esty, D.C. and Winston, A.S. (2006). Green to Gold: How Smart Companies Use Environmental Strategy to Innovate, Create Value, and Build Competitive 

Advantage. Yale University Press. 

Introduction 3 
3. Addressing climate change can expand and open 

new markets for your company. 

In an interview on his company’s business strategy Jeffrey 

Immelt, chairman and CEO of General Electric (GE), commented in Harvard Business Review that: 

The goal was to strengthen the company by picking 

a theme that was bigger than just energy, or rail, 

or aircraft engines, or plastics. We’d never done 

anything like that before. But in 2004, it came up in 

our strategic-planning process... that there was a 

big theme emerging across five different businesses—a real focus on emissions reduction, energy 

efficiency, water supply, and what I would call the 

economics of scarcity... 

Climate change was a fundamental component of GE’s 

“Ecomagination” strategy that came from this key insight. 

GE realized that its future markets would be driven by 

society’s need to address climate change and other environmental issues. As a result, GE committed to investing $1.5 

billion in research and development related to environmental products and to growing revenues from its Ecomagination initiative to $20 billion by 2010. 

Similarly, in almost every sector of the U.S. economy, 

markets will be affected directly by the consequences of 

climate change or indirectly by customers’ commitment to 

addressing climate change. For companies that anticipate 

and address these market drivers, climate change can be a 

business opportunity; for those that fail to do so, it can be a 

fundamental threat. 

4. Addressing climate change can enhance your company’s reputation. 

A company’s “intangible value”—its knowledge, its brand 

value, and its reputation with its employees, customers, 

investors, and key stakeholders—can account for more 

than 50 percent of its value4. Whether and how a company 

addresses climate change increasingly contributes to its 

intangible value. It affects its value chain and key markets. 

It affects how the public regards its brand—either as a 

responsible company helping to solve a key environmental 

problem facing society or as a company seeking short-term 

profits at society’s expense. It affects how its employees 

regard it and its ability to maintain a quality workforce in 

competitive labor markets. It also affects how investors 

regard the company. 

5. Addressing climate change can enhance shareholder value. 

Innovest Strategic Value Advisors conducted a study 

entitled Carbon Beta© and Equity Performance: Moving 

From Disclosure to Performance5 to evaluate the relationship among climate change, companies’ ability to manage 

the associated risks and opportunities, and companies’ 

financial performance. Innovest examined more than 800 

companies in high impact sectors (those sectors most 

exposed to carbon risk) and across regions of the world to 

compare carbon “leaders” to carbon “laggards.” Among the 

study’s key findings: 

• Companies’ risk exposure to climate change varies 

widely, both between and even within different industry sectors and geographic regions. 

•		 Companies with the most robust climate risk management architecture and ability to seize competitive 

opportunities on the upside have tended to outperform 

their same-sector peers financially over the past three 

years. 

• The “Carbon Beta© premium” for leading companies 

appears to be growing larger over time, as regulatory 

regimes tighten around the world. 

4 Low, J. and Kalafut, P.C. (2002). Invisible Advantage: How Intangibles Are Driving Business Performance. Perseus Books Group. 

4 A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
INNOVEST Analysis: Carbon BETA Leaders and Laggards Globally5 

Total Return 

120% 

100% 

80% 

60% 

40% 

20% 

0% 

-20% 

Difference Above Average Innovest Rating (World) 

Why EPA Partnership Programs? 

EPA Partnership Programs offer participating companies a 

wide variety of valuable services and resources to reduce 

GHGs. 

Benchmarking and Recognition 

For those firms interested in environmental performance 

benchmarking and public recognition, EPA is uniquely 

positioned to help communicate your commitment and actions credibly to a wide local, state, regional, national, and 

international audience. Through the EPA Climate Leaders 

Program, for example, your company can create a lasting record of its GHG emissions reduction activities and 

accomplishments, and it can identify itself as a corporate 

environmental leader and strategically position itself as 

climate change policy continues to unfold. 

National Reach and Collaboration 

By joining an EPA Partnership Program, a business frequently gains access not just to EPA resources and services 

but often those of many other organizations. EPA is one 

of the few environmental bodies with national reach. EPA 

regional offices, laboratories, grantees, and consultants 

routinely participate in EPA Partnership Programs targeting 

Jun2004 Sep2004 Dec2004 Mar2005 Jun2005 Sep2005 Dec2005 Mar2006 Jun2006 Sep2006 Dec2006 Mar2007 Jun2007 

Below Average Innovest Rating (World) 

the business community. Through these programs, EPA has 

forged thousands of collaborative partnerships with advocacy organizations, research organizations, community 

groups, business associations, professional associations, 

utilities, universities, schools, and state and local governments. 

Services and Resources 

EPA Partnership Programs offer partners a wide variety of 

valuable services and resources to reduce GHG emissions. 

Most programs offer technical assistance, professional 

networking, and public recognition. Many offer financial 

and environmental analysis tools, training, seminars, guidebooks, toolkits, and environmental performance benchmarking. Others help businesses identify potential buyers 

and sellers of environmentally superior products and connect them to environmental financing opportunities. 

Regulatory Role 

EPA is also one of the few U.S. bodies with environmental 

regulatory powers at the federal level. As more and more 

states adopt new and mandatory climate policies and as 

climate policy continues to evolve at the federal level, EPA 

is in a unique position to help business partners prepare for 

these changes. 

5 Innovest Strategic Value Advisors. (2007, October). Carbon Beta and Equity Prices: From Disclosure to Performance. 

http://www.innovestgroup.com/images/pdf/carbonbetaequityperformance.pdf. Used with permission from Inovest. 

Introduction 5 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Early Credit and Regulatory Developments 

By participating in EPA Partnership Programs, companies 

can develop a comprehensive climate change strategy, which 

often results in quantifiable GHG emissions reductions and 

a lasting record of GHG emissions reduction activities and 

accomplishments. Through EPA Partnership Programs, 

companies also have the opportunity to strategically position 

themselves as climate change policy continues to unfold. 

Climate Strategy for Business 

The programs profiled in this guide can serve as critical 

components of your company’s climate strategy. This guide 

will help you find programs that best address the specific 

climate risks and opportunities for your firm. Companies 

can join these programs one at a time or as a package as 

part of a more comprehensive climate strategy. 

Climate Leaders 

The Climate Leaders program is an EPA industry-government partnership specifically designed to help companies 

develop and implement a robust climate change strategy. 

Climate Leaders is the most comprehensive EPA Partnership Program targeting the climate issue. Companies in the 

program address the major risks and opportunities associated with climate change by developing and implementing 

GHG reduction initiatives to reach goals set in the program. 

Since 2002, Climate Leaders has provided valuable guidance 

and recognition to leading companies to help them develop 

and implement long-term, comprehensive corporate-wide 

climate change strategies. Climate Leaders partners range 

from Fortune 100 corporations to small businesses and 

represent a variety of industries and sectors, from manufacturers and utilities to financial institutions and retailers, with 

total U.S. revenues of more than $1 trillion. 

Under Climate Leaders, firms take all steps commonly 

associated with comprehensive climate change strategy. 

They commit to reducing their impacts on the global 

environment by completing corporate-wide inventories of 

their GHG emissions, implementing management plans for 

data consistency, setting five- to 10-year reduction goals, 

developing an action plan, and reporting progress to EPA annually. Through Climate Leaders, your company can create 

credible and lasting records of its GHG emissions reduction 

activities and accomplishments. Your company can also 

identify itself as corporate environmental leader and strategically position your company as climate change policy 

continues to unfold. To learn more about Climate Leaders, 

please see the “Program Profiles” section of this guide. 

Additional Climate Strategy Resources 

If you are considering adopting a comprehensive climate 

strategy, there are several other publications on climate 

strategy for business that are worth reviewing. More 

information on how to access these resources is available 

in Appendix A. 

•		 A Program Guide to Climate Leaders, EPA’s Climate 

Leaders. 

•		 Issue Brief on Climate Change, Business for Social 

Responsibility.
 

•		 A Three-Pronged Approach to Corporate Climate 

Strategy, Business for Social Responsibility. 

•		 Getting Ahead of the Curve: Corporate Strategies That 

Address Climate Change, The Pew Center on Global 

Climate Change and the University of Michigan. 

•		 Hot Climate, Cool Commerce: A Service Sector 

Guide to Greenhouse Gas Management, World 

Resources Institute. 

•		 A Climate of Innovation: Northeast Business Action to 

Reduce Greenhouse Gases, World Resources Institute. 

•		 Offsetting Emissions: A Business Brief on the 

Voluntary Carbon Market (Second Edition),
 

Business for Social Responsibility. 

•		 Beyond Neutrality: Moving Your Company Toward 

Climate Leadership, Business for Social Responsibility. 

•		 Getting Carbon Offsets Right, Business for Social 

Responsibility.
 

6 A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
Introduction 7 
Program Finder Table (page 1 of 2) 

8 

Industry Sectors 

Partnership Program AgricultureAluminum manufacturingAppliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturingBuilding materials manufacturingCement and lime manufacturingChemical manufacturingCoal miningFood processors and distributorsGeneral manufacturingGrocersHospitalityHospitalsLandscaping and golf coursesMetals miningOffice-based businessesOil and gasPulp and paper manufacturingReal estate development, management, and constructionRetailersSemiconductor manufacturingUtilities/power marketersVehicle fleet owners/shippersVehicle ManufacturingWaste Management 

Ag STAR •

Best Workplaces for 

Commuters • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Coalbed Methane Outreach 

Program •

Climate Leaders • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Coal Combustion Products 

Partnership • • • • •

Combined Heat and Power 

Partnership • • • • • • • • •

Design for the Environment 

Safer Product Recognition 

Program 

• • • • •

Electronic Product 

Environmental Assessment 

Tool (EPEAT) * 

• • • • • •

ENERGY STAR Labeling • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

ENERGY STAR Commercial 

Buildings • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

ENERGY STAR Industry • • • • • • • • • • • •

ENERGY STAR Qualified New 

Homes • •

Great American Woodstove 

Changeout Campaign •

GreenChill Advanced 

Refrigeration Partnership •

Green Power Partnership • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

GreenScapes • • • • • •

Green Suppliers Network • • • • • • • • •

Home Performance with 

ENERGY STAR • • •

Labs for the 21st Century • • • • • •

Landfill Methane Outreach 

Program • • • • • • • • • • • •

Lean and the Environment 

Initiative * • • • • • • • • • •

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
Program Finder 9

Industry Sectors 

Partnership Program 

AgricultureAluminum manufacturingAppliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturingBuilding materials manufacturingCement and lime manufacturingChemical manufacturingCoal miningFood processors and distributorsGeneral manufacturingGrocersHospitalityHospitalsLandscaping and golf coursesMetals miningOffice-based businessesOil and gasPulp and paper manufacturingReal estate development, management, and constructionRetailersSemiconductor manufacturingUtilities/power marketersVehicle fleet owners/shippersVehicle ManufacturingWaste Management 

Methane to Markets 

Partnership • • •

Mobile Air Conditioning 

Climate Protection 

Partnership 

• •

National Action Plan for 

Energy Efficiency * • • • • •

Natural Gas STAR •

Outdoor Hydronic Heaters •

Performance Track • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

PFC Emission Reduction 

Partnership • •

Plug-In to eCycling • •

Responsible Appliance 

Disposal Program • • •

SF6 Emission Reduction 

Partnership for Electric 

Power Systems 

• •

Smart Growth Network * •

SmartWay Transport 

Partnership • • • • • •

Voluntary Aluminum 

Industrial Partnership •

WasteWise • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

WaterSense • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

* Please note that this program is an EPA-supported program, but it is not formally considered an EPA Partnership Program. 

Program Finder Table (page 2 of 2) 
 

Program Profiles
 

10 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

AgSTAR 

Web site: www.epa.gov/agstar 

Contact Information: Kurt Roos 

(202) 343-9041 

roos.kurt@epa.gov 

Description: This program is jointly sponsored by EPA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and 

the U.S. Department of Energy. The program encourages the profitable use of methane 

recovery (biogas) technologies at confined animal feeding operations (CAFOs) that 

manage manure as liquids or slurries. These technologies reduce methane emissions 

while achieving other environmental benefits. 

Business case: Utilizing anaerobic digester (AD) technology can reduce odors and provide improved 

manure management. Use of AD systems allows for the capture of biogas and the 

possible use of methane as an energy source for on and off-farm energy needs. AD 

biogas has been used for a variety of purposes including generating heat, hot water, and 

electricity. Other opportunities for using methane include absorption cooling systems, 

producing high-Btu gas for injection into the natural gas pipeline, and development of 

alternate liquid and gaseous vehicle fuels. Markets are also growing for the use of the 

animal processed fibers (manure solids), primarily in the horticulture industry. 

Services: AgSTAR offers project development resources, including a Web-based tool to assess 

project feasibility, and provides technical assistance, publishes information and guidebooks, and sponsors events and workshops. 

Value to environment: The AgSTAR Program has successfully encouraged the development and adoption 

of anaerobic digestion technologies. Since 1994, the number of operational digester 

systems in the United States has grown to more than 125, producing significant benefits. 

In 2007, AgSTAR AD systems in the United States reduced 80,000 tons of methane 

emissions and generated 275 million kilowatt-hours of energy. 

Sectors most applicable: Agriculture 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Enhanced employee recruiting/productivity 

Services Offered: 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Best Workplaces for Commuters 

Web site: www.bestworkplaces.org 

Contact Information: Julie Bond 

National Center for Transit Research 

University of South Florida 

(813) 974-9799 

bond@cutr.usf.edu 

Description: Best Workplaces for CommutersSM is an innovative, voluntary business-government 

program, started by EPA and the U.S. Department of Transportation but now operated by the University of South Florida’s National Center for Transit Research, that 

distinguishes—and provides national recognition to—employers offering outstanding 

traffic-reducing commuter benefits such as free or discounted transit passes, vanpool 

services, or telework programs. Employers meeting a National Standard of Excellence 

in commuter benefits get on the list of Best Workplaces for Commuters—a fast-growing mark of excellence in environmental leadership. 

Business case: Employers qualifying as Best Workplaces for Commuters report improved employee 

job satisfaction and productivity, reduced parking facility costs, improved employee 

recruiting, and improved community relations. 

Services: The program offers public recognition, technical assistance, training, Web-based tools 

to estimate financial and environmental benefits, guidebooks in implementing commuter benefits, and professional networking opportunities. 

Value to environment: Research shows that qualifying employers will achieve a 15-percent reduction in commuter vehicle trips, miles traveled, fuel consumption, and vehicle-related emissions. 

Sectors most applicable: All 

Program Profiles 11
 

12 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q New/expanded markets 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Professional networking 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Coalbed Methane Outreach Program 

Web site: www.epa.gov/coalbed 

Contact Information: Pamela Franklin 

(202) 343-9476 

franklin.pamela@epa.gov 

Description: The Coalbed Methane Outreach Program (CMOP) is a voluntary program that promotes 

the profitable recovery and use, rather than emission, of coal mine methane (CMM), 

a GHG over 20 times as potent as carbon dioxide. If recovered, CMM can serve as an 

alternative and profitable energy source. 

Business case: CMOP helps coal mine owners, mine operators, project developers, and investors put 

CMM to profitable use. Methane is removed from coal mines using large-scale ventilation systems, which may be supplemented by degasification systems used in advance of, 

during, or after mining activity. After recovery, CMM can be profitably used for natural 

gas pipeline injection, power production, co-firing in boilers, district heating, coal drying, vehicle fuel, and industrial feedstocks. 

Services: CMOP offers tools to maximize profitable methane reductions, provides technical and 

analytical assistance to identify and assess technologies, site-specific feasibility, policy 

issues, and financing mechanisms. CMOP sponsors workshops, networking opportunities, and international activities through the Methane to Markets Partnership. 

Value to environment: Capturing and using CMM has benefits for the local and global environment, including 

mitigating GHG emissions and utilizing a clean energy resource. Since 1994, CMOP 

has assisted U.S. projects to capture and use over 300 billion cubic feet of CMM. 

Sectors most applicable: Coal mining 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q New/expanded markets 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

3 3

3

3 3

3

3 3

3 3

3

®

Climate Leaders 

Web site: www.epa.gov/climateleaders 

Contact Information: Jim Sullivan 

(202) 343-9241 

sullivan.jamest@epa.gov 

Description: The Climate Leaders program works with companies to develop comprehensive climate 

change strategies. Partner companies commit to reducing their impact on the global environment by completing a corporate-wide inventory of their GHG emissions based on 

a quality management system, setting aggressive reduction goals, and annually reporting progress to EPA. Through program participation, companies create credible records 

of accomplishment and receive EPA recognition as environmental leaders. 

Business case: Addressing climate risk is a key objective for many leading companies. Investors, customers, and suppliers are increasingly seeking information on corporate climate strategies that benefit the bottom line, reduce uncertainty, and create market opportunities. 

Services: Climate Leaders provides partners with technical assistance and resources for developing GHG inventories, reporting reductions, setting goals, and promoting successes. The 

program also organizes workshops and events where partners can interact and provides 

partners with tools to promote their successes. 

Value to environment: The Climate Leaders program addresses the climate impact of a firm on a comprehensive basis. All sources of GHGs are considered, inventoried, and reduced, including 

onsite fuel consumption and energy use, industrial processes, onsite waste disposal, onsite air conditioning and refrigeration use, electricity and steam purchases, and mobile 

sources. 

Sectors most applicable: All 

Program Profiles 13
 

14 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Research and development assistance 

q New/expanded markets 

Services Offered: 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Matching buyers sellers 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

3

3

3

Coal Combustion Products Partnership 

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/c2p2 

Contact Information: John Sager 

(703) 308-7256 

sager.john@epa.gov 

Description: The Coal Combustion Products Partnership (C2

P2) is a voluntary program co-sponsored 

by EPA, the American Coal Ash Association, the Utility Solid Waste Activities Group, 

the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Agriculture–Agriculture 

Research Service, the U.S. Federal Highway Administration, and the Electric Power Research Institute. The program encourages the use of coal combustion products (CCPs), 

byproducts generated from coal-fired power plants. 

Business case: Companies can realize cost savings from avoiding coal ash and slag disposal, using 

CCPs in place of other, more costly materials, and by reaping byproduct revenues from 

the sale of CCPs. When using CCPs in place of or in combination with other materials, companies can realize benefits in performance, based on the physical and chemical 

characteristics of CCPs, including greater resistance to chemicals, increased strength, 

and improved workability. 

Services: C2

P2 is promoted through an information hotline, and the program also offers regulatory 

and technical resources on the use of CCPs, sponsors workshops and other events, and 

conducts an awards program. 

Value to environment: Increased use of CCPs reduces energy consumption and GHG emissions because fewer 

virgin materials need to be mined and processed (mining and processing activities, especially the production of cement, consume energy and produce significant GHG emissions). Use of CCPs also avoids burdensome disposal. 

Sectors most applicable: Agriculture; building materials manufacturing; cement and lime manufacturing; 

real estate development, management, and construction; utilities/power 

marketers 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Matching buyers sellers 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

Combined Heat and Power Partnership 

3 3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/chp 

Contact Information: Felicia Ruiz 

(202) 343-9129 

ruiz.felicia@epa.gov 

Description: Combined heat and power (CHP), also known as cogeneration, is an efficient, clean, 

and reliable approach to generating power and thermal energy from a single fuel source. 

By installing a CHP system designed to meet the thermal and electrical base loads of 

a facility, CHP can greatly increase the facility’s operational efficiency and decrease 

energy costs. At the same time, CHP reduces GHGs. 

Business case: By installing a CHP system designed to meet the thermal and electrical base loads of 

a facility, CHP can greatly increase the facility’s operational efficiency and decrease 

energy costs. 

Services: Partners can receive public recognition, and they have access to printed and Web-based 

outreach materials and various tools and resources, including an online database of 

funding opportunities and an online CHP emissions calculator. EPA provides a variety 

of technical assistance to energy users who are considering implementing CHP projects, 

including conducting analysis of economic viability for projects, assisting in feasibility 

studies, and providing information on technologies, vendors, and incentives. 

Value to environment: Because they capture and utilize heat that would otherwise be wasted through electricity production, CHP systems require less fuel than equivalent separate heat and power 

systems to produce the same amount of energy. Because less fuel is combusted, fewer 

GHGs are emitted. 

Sectors most applicable: Agriculture; aluminum manufacturing; cement and lime manufacturing; chemical manufacturing; food processors and distributors; general manufacturing; oil 

and gas; pulp and paper manufacturing; utilities/power marketers 

Program Profiles 15
 

16 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

3

3

3

3

3

Design for the Environment Safer Product Recognition Program 

Web site: www.epa.gov/dfe/pubs/projects/formulat/index.htm 

Contact Information: David DiFiore 

(202) 564-8796 

difiore.david@epa.gov 

Description: The Design for the Environment (DfE) Safer Product Recognition Program allows use 

of its label on products made with the safest possible ingredients that are cost-effective 

and high-performance. Energy efficiency is also a key attribute. The redesign of chemical products offers important opportunities to remove polluting chemicals from formulations before they can enter the workplace, home, or environment, and to advance 

energy and water efficiency, resource conservation, and innovative technologies. 

Business case: Retailers, governmental purchasing entities, and others are increasingly demanding 

that their suppliers provide DfE-labeled products. DfE-labeled safer concentrates save 

companies money and reduce generation of GHGs in transport. Cold-water detergents 

save consumers money and reduce generation of GHGs in the use phase. Safer product 

design not only reduces potential chemical management liability, but achieving DfE 

recognition serves as an important indicia of a company’s environmental leadership and 

sustainability achievements. 

Services: DfE offers companies access to EPA’s unique chemical assessment tools and expertise. 

DfE provides manufacturers with information on chemical characteristics and toxicities 

of raw materials and additives, safer substitutes for chemicals of concern, and innovative new chemistries. DfE offers product review and recognition for a variety of formulations, from concentrated cleaning products to anti-corrosion conversion coatings. 

Value to environment: DfE partnerships result in significant reduction in the handling, use and environmental 

release of chemicals of concern, which may have an adverse effect on human health, 

aquatic life, and ecosystems. DfE has recognized 500 products and, as of 2007, reduced 

the use of chemicals of concern by approximately 80 million pounds and reduced the 

generation of GHGs. 

Sectors most applicable: Chemical manufacturing; grocers; hospitality; hospitals; retailers 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Web site: www.epeat.net 

Contact Information: Holly Elwood 

(202) 564-8854 

elwood.holly@epa.gov 

Description: EPEAT is a system to help companies evaluate, compare, select, and purchase more 

sustainable desktop computers, notebooks, and monitors. EPEAT provides electronic 

equipment manufacturers a clear and consistent set of performance criteria for product 

design as well as new opportunities to distinguish their products in the marketplace based 

on environmental performance. 

The standard may be purchased from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. 

EPEAT operates a verification program to ensure the credibility of the registry. 

Business case: For companies purchasing computer equipment, EPEAT provides the easiest way to specify 

affordable, high-performance, environmentally preferable computer desktops, laptops, and 

monitors. Because products on the EPEAT product registry must meet ENERGY STAR 

requirements, companies using EPEAT save on facility energy costs. For manufacturers of 

electronic equipment, the EPEAT product registry helps you reach customers seeking products in compliance with the IEEE 1680- 2006 environmental performance standard. 

Services: Manufacturers have access to a variety of information on the environmental performance 

standards for applicable electronics. In addition, anyone may access and search the product registry to locate qualifying products. 

Value to environment: Based on manufacturer data, the first six months’ sales of EPEAT registered green computers in 2006 prevented approximately 50 million metric tons of air pollution including 1 

million metric tons of GHGs—the equivalent of removing 852,000 cars from the road for a 

year. 

Sectors most applicable: Appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing; hospitality; hospitals; office-based businesses; retailers; semiconductor manufacturing 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q New/expanded markets 

Services Offered: 

q Matching buyers sellers 

q Technical assistance 

3

3

Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) 

TM

3

3

• Please note that this program is an EPA-supported program, but it is not formally considered an EPA Partnership Program. 

Program Profiles 17
 

18 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q New/expanded markets 

Services Offered: 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

3

3

3

ENERGY STAR Labeling 

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.energystar.gov 

Contact Information: Energy Star Hotline 

1-888-STAR YES (782-7937) 

hotline@energystar.gov 

Description: Since 1992, the ENERGY STAR program has helped thousands of organizations across 

the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors take advantage of cost-effective opportunities to improve their energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions. ENERGY 

STAR qualified products allow consumers to identify the most energy efficient products 

on the market without having to sacrifice performance. EPA manages the ENERGY 

STAR program along with the Department of Energy (DOE). 

Business case: Organizations of all kinds can benefit from partnering with the ENERGY STAR. Over 

40,000 product models across 50 categories now display the ENERGY STAR label, 

which is recognized by more than 65 percent of consumers. More than 2.5 billion qualified products have been sold since the program started, including about 500 million in 

2007 alone. Manufacturers of ES qualified products have the opportunity to expand 

their markets, build consumer loyalty, and gain recognition as environmental leaders. 

Retailers can increase sales and customer loyalty by promoting the sales of ENERGY 

STAR qualified products. In addition, ENERGY STAR provides a powerful platform 

for utilities and other energy efficiency program sponsors to boosting the efficacy and 

reducing the costs of their energy efficiency programs. Currently, more than 1,300 

manufacturers and 1,600 retailers and energy efficiency program sponsors are realizing 

the benefits of partnering with ENERGY STAR. 

All businesses, regardless of size or type, can easily reduce energy costs and boost 

employee morale by implementing an Energy Star purchasing policy or participating in 

national campaigns like Change a Light, Change the World. 

Services: EPA and its manufacturing partners develop specifications for products. EPA provides 

the ENERGY STAR logo, marketing resources, sales training materials, and sponsors a 

number of product-specific national campaigns through which manufacturers, retailers, and program sponsors can promote sales. EPA also hosts partner network meetings 

and offers opportunities for recognition through events such as the Partner of the Year 

awards. 

Value to environment: Energy efficiency is one of the lowest-cost strategies to address global climate change 

by reducing the amount of emissions associated with the burning of fossil fuels to 

produce energy. In 2006 alone, Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR qualified 

products, avoided greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from more than 10 million vehicles, while saving almost $7 billion on their energy bills. 

Sectors most applicable: All 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

ENERGY STAR Commercial Buildings 

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.energystar.gov 

Contact Information: Energy Star Hotline 

1-888-STAR YES (782-7937) 

hotline@energystar.gov 

Description: Since 1992, the ENERGY STAR program has helped thousands of organizations across 

the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors take advantage of cost-effective opportunities to improve their energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions. 

Business case: Organizations of all kinds can benefit from partnering with the ENERGY STAR. Managing energy use strategically enables organizations of all sizes to mitigate the impact 

of rising costs and volatility in energy markets, as well reducing operating costs and 

distinguishing themselves as environmental leaders. 

Services: EPA provides the tools and resources necessary for strategic energy management. 

Buildings owners and facility managers of all kinds of buildings can use EPA tools 

to benchmark their energy and water use in order to target investments on improvements—more than 60,000 buildings nationwide have already done so. Top-performing 

hospitals, hotels, office buildings, retailers, schools, grocery stores, warehouses, 

dormitories, banks, courthouses can earn the Energy Star label. EPA also hosts partner 

network meetings and offers opportunities for recognition at both the building and 

corporate level. 

Value to environment: Energy efficiency is one of the lowest-cost strategies to address global climate change 

by reducing the amount of emissions associated with the burning of fossil fuels to 

produce energy. In 2006 alone, actions taken by ENERGY STAR Commercial Buildings partners avoided GHG emissions equivalent to those from more than 10 million 

vehicles, while saving almost $5 billion in energy costs. 

Sectors most applicable: All 

Program Profiles 19
 

 

20 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

ENERGY STAR Industry 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.energystar.gov 

Contact Information: Elizabeth Dutrow 

(202) 343-9061 

dutrow.elizabeth@epa.gov 

Description: Since 1992, the ENERGY STAR program has helped thousands of organizations across 

the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors take advantage of cost-effective opportunities to improve their energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions. 

Business case: The nearly 500 industrial ENERGY STAR partners come from all sectors of the 

economy and have joined with ENERGY STAR to manage energy and climate change 

risk, increase competitiveness, distinguish themselves as environmental leaders, and 

build and refine the energy component of their corporate sustainability issues. 

Services: ENERGY STAR offers a suite of tools and resources for industrial partners from all 

sectors to help them: 

• Identify robust energy strategies for the future 

• Master the fundamentals of energy management 

• Benchmark energy performance 

• Share best management practices 

• Demonstrate environmental leadership through recognition opportunities 

In addition, EPA works with an ever growing number of focus sectors to develop 

sector-specific guidance and plant-level energy performance indicators to enable them 

to judge the energy performance of their plants nationally. Focus industries as of the 

end of 2007 include cement manufacturing, corn refining, food processing, glass manufacturing, motor vehicle manufacturing, petrochemical processing, petroleum refining, 

pharmaceuticals, pulp & paper, and waste and wastewater. 

Value to environment: Energy efficiency is one of the lowest-cost strategies available to address global climate 

change. In 2006 alone, actions taken by Energy Star’s industrial partners helped to 

avoid the emission of 6.5 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent 

to the emissions of more than 4 million cars, while saving $2 billion in energy costs. 

Sectors most applicable: Aluminum manufacturing; appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing; cement and lime manufacturing; chemical manufacturing; coal mining; 

food processors and distributors; metals mining; oil and gas; pulp and paper 

manufacturing; semiconductor manufacturing; vehicle manufacturing 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Training/seminars 

3

3

3

3

ENERGY STAR Qualified New Homes 

3

3

Web site: www.energystar.gov 

Contact Information: Energy Star Hotline 

1-888-STAR YES (782-7937) 

hotline@energystar.gov 

Short description/history: Since 1992, ENERGY STAR has helped thousands of organizations across the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors take advantage of cost-effective opportunities to 

improve energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions. In the residential new construction marketplace, ENERGY STAR and its partners work together to promote the 

benefits and increase sales of energy-efficient homes. 

Homes that earn the ENERGY STAR label must meet guidelines for energy efficiency set 

by EPA. ENERGY STAR-qualified homes are at least 15 percent more energy efficient 

than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC) and include additional 

energy-saving features that typically make them 20 to 30 percent more efficient than 

standard homes. Nationally, more than 12 percent of new homes built in 2006 earned the 

ENERGY STAR label. 

Business case: New homes that qualify as ENERGY STAR provide greater comfort and durability for 

home buyers. In addition, ENERGY STAR-qualified homes help to protect the environment by reducing the GHG emissions associated with climate change. 

ENERGY STAR-qualified homes can include a variety of energy efficient features 

such as effective insulation, high-performance windows, tight construction and ducts, 

efficient heating and cooling equipment, and ENERGY STAR-qualified lighting and appliances. ENERGY STAR builder partners can differentiate themselves in the marketplace, boost sales, and gain recognition as environmental leaders. 

For utilities, an ENERGY STAR-qualified new homes program can stand alone or complement an existing residential energy efficiency initiative. By encouraging the construction of ENERGY STAR-qualified new homes, utilities can manage peak demand even as 

their customer bases increase. Hundreds of organizations nationwide are meeting their 

demand side management commitments by sponsoring ENERGY STAR initiatives. 

Services/resources: EPA provides the ENERGY STAR logo mark, marketing resources, and sales training 

materials, and sponsors outreach campaigns through which builders and utilities can 

work together to increase awareness of ENERGY STAR-qualified homes in the local 

market. EPA also hosts partner network meetings and offers opportunities for recognition for environmental stewardship. 

Value to environment: Energy efficiency is one of the lowest-cost strategies to address global climate change 

and air pollution by reducing the amount of emissions associated with the burning of 

fossil fuels to produce energy. In 2006 alone, American homeowners, with the help of 

ENERGY STAR, avoided GHG emissions equivalent to those from more than 250,000 

vehicles, while saving almost $170 million on their energy bills. 

Sectors most applicable: Real estate development, management, and construction; utilities/power marketers 

Program Profiles 21
 

22 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

3 q Matching buyers/sellers

Great American Wood Stove Changeout Campaign 

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/woodstoves/index.html 

Contact Information: Larry Brockman 

(919) 541-5398 

brockman.larry@epa.gov 

Description: This program facilitates the change-out of old, dirty, inefficient, “conventional” wood 

stoves manufactured before 1988 to new, cleaner-burning appliances like gas, pellet, 

and EPA-certified stoves. Moving to cleaner technologies reduces particulate matter and 

air toxics (indoor and outdoor), improves energy efficiency, and reduces fire hazards. 

Business case: Manufacturers of cleaner-burning stoves receive certification and hence marketplace 

advantages. During a wood stove changeout campaign, consumers receive financial 

incentives such as rebates to replace older stoves with either non-wood burning equipment (for example, vented gas stoves), pellet stoves, or EPA certified wood stoves. 

Purchasers can buy with confidence, knowing their wood stoves embody cleaner technologies. 

Services: Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of cleaner and more efficient wood stoves can 

participate in co-marketing campaigns to increase sales. 

Value to environment: Approximately 70 to 80 percent of the 10 million wood stoves in use in the United 

States are older, inefficient, conventional stoves that pollute. EPA certified wood stoves 

emit approximately 70 percent less pollution than older, conventional wood stoves. 

Sectors most applicable: Appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

GreenChill Advanced Refrigeration Partnership 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Research and development assistance 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/Ozone/partnerships/greenchill/index.html 

Contact Information: Keilly Witman 

(202) 343-9742 

witman.keilly@epa.gov 

Bella Maranion 

(202) 343-9749 

maranion.bella@epa.gov 

Description: The GreenChill Advanced Refrigeration Partnership is an EPA cooperative alliance 

with the supermarket industry and other stakeholders to promote the adoption of advanced technologies, strategies, and practices that reduce emissions of ozone-depleting 

substances (ODS) and greenhouse gases (GHGs). 

Business case: EPA estimates that operating expenses could be reduced by about $30 million annually 

through widespread adoption of best practices, improved equipment design and service, 

and advanced refrigeration technologies. Companies also receive recognition for participation in the program, achievement awards, analytical tools, and guidelines on best 

practices and advanced technologies. 

Services: GreenChill offers companies the chance to benchmark their emissions reductions vs. 

their peers and to receive awards for achieving their annual emissions reduction goals. 

GreenChill provides partners with a variety of publicity, marketing, and outreach opportunities to highlight their participation in GreenChill. In addition, partners collaborate across industries to identify service and operational practices that reduce emissions 

of ozone-depleting refrigerants and their greenhouse gas alternatives, and they participate in an industry-government research initiative to assess the performance of green 

technologies in terms of energy efficiency, reducing refrigerant charge, and minimizing 

refrigerant leaks. 

Value to environment: Implementation of best practices, improved equipment design and service, and advanced refrigeration technologies could reduce refrigerant emissions by almost 6 

million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent annually, which is equivalent to taking 

about 1 million cars off the road every year. 

Sectors most applicable: Grocers 

Program Profiles 23
 

 

 

 

 

24 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q New/expanded markets 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Matching buyers/sellers 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

Green Power Partnership 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/greenpower 

Contact Information: Blaine Collison 

(202) 343-9139 

collison.blaine@epa.gov 

Description: The Green Power Partnership (GPP) promotes the use of renewable energy by providing technical assistance, networking possibilities, and public recognition to companies 

that choose to utilize green power (i.e., electricity that is generated from resources such 

as solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, and low-impact hydro facilities). 

Business case: Green power can be one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce the environmental impacts associated with your organization’s conventional electricity use. Buying 

green power can help reduce your organization’s environmental impact while also 

providing valuable benefits such as avoiding GHG emissions; reducing air pollution; 

hedging against electricity price increases; serving as a brand differentiator; generating 

customer, investor, or stakeholder loyalty and employee pride; creating positive publicity and enhancing your organization’s public image; and demonstrating civic leadership. 

Services: GPP actively promotes and recognizes Green Power Partners as environmental leaders. 

EPA assists Partners in promoting the concept of green power internally and externally, 

which often includes valuable media coverage. EPA also provides companies with a 

means to estimate the environmental benefits of switching to green power and provides 

technical advice on navigating the complexities of making a green power purchase. 

Value to environment: Conventional electricity use is a significant source of air pollution and GHG emissions. 

Buying green power can make a real difference environmentally by encouraging the 

development of new, domestic renewable energy capacity, which produces electricity 

with significantly less air pollution and no net increase in GHG emissions. 

Sectors most applicable: All 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

GreenScapes 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

3 3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/greenscapes 

Contact Information: Jean Schwab 

(703) 308-8669 

schwab.jean@epa.gov 

Description: EPA’s GreenScapes provides cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions for 

large-scale landscaping. Designed to help preserve natural resources and prevent waste 

and pollution, GreenScapes encourages companies to make more holistic decisions 

regarding waste generation and disposal and to consider the associated impacts on 

land, water, air, and energy use. GreenScapes focuses on “the four r’s” in landscaping: reduce, reuse, recycle water and waste, and rebuy (purchase materials made from 

recycled products). 

Business case: Green landscaping means buying fewer products and switching from the purchase of 

disposable products to those that are long-lasting and reusable. While the purchase of 

longer-lasting products can initially be more expensive, savings accrue over time. 

Services: GreenScapes offers online calculators for cost comparisons, provides publications and 

technical guidance, conducts workshops, and sponsors awards. 

Value to environment: The use of reusable materials results in waste reduction, which is associated with GHG 

emissions reductions, savings in landfill space, and natural resource preservation. 

Sectors most applicable: Hospitality; hospitals; landscaping and golf courses; office-based businesses; 

real estate development, management, and construction; retailers 

Program Profiles 25
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

26 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

Green Suppliers Network 

3 3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.greensuppliers.gov 

Contact Information: Kristin Pierre 

(202) 564-8837 

pierre.kristin@epa.gov 

Description: The Green Suppliers Network (GSN) is a collaborative venture among industry, EPA, and 

the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP). GSN 

works with all levels of the manufacturing supply chain to improve processes and minimize waste generation. Through onsite GSN review, suppliers continuously learn ways to 

increase energy efficiency, identify cost-saving opportunities, and optimize resources and 

technologies to eliminate waste. The result is more effective processes and products with 

higher profits and fewer environmental impacts. 

Business case: Partners and their suppliers benefit from a more reliable, “leaner” supply chain and 

from recognition for participating in GSN. Suppliers can save money by implementing 

GSN review recommendations. Partners have the flexibility to decide which recommendations to implement, and GSN reviews often lead to at least a 3:1 return on investment. GSN helps help small and medium-sized manufacturers stay competitive and 

profitable while reducing their impact on the environment. 

Services: GSN provides industry with technical assistance; offers opportunities to be highlighted 

in case studies and presentations; and publishes a variety of tools, resources, and promotional materials. 

Value to environment: Implementation of GSN review recommendations results in a wide variety of environmental 

benefits. Results from the 49 reviews completed as of September 2007 include the following: more than 72 million kilowatt-hours of energy conserved, 10 million gallons of water 

conserved, 89,000 pounds of air emissions reduced, and 1 million pounds of solid waste 

reduced. 

Sectors most applicable: Aluminum manufacturing; appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing; building materials manufacturing; cement and lime manufacturing; chemical 

manufacturing; general manufacturing; pulp and paper manufacturing; semiconductor 

manufacturing; vehicle manufacturing 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Research and development assistance 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

Home Performance with ENERGY STAR 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

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3

Web site: www.energystar.gov 

Contact Information: Chandler von Schrader 

(202) 343-9096 

vonschrader.chandler@epa.gov 

Description: Since 1992, ENERGY STAR has helped hundreds of organizations across the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors take advantage of cost-effective opportunities to improve energy 

efficiency and reduce GHG emissions. Through Home Performance with ENERGY STAR 

(HPWES), EPA and DOE offer a comprehensive, whole-house approach to improving energy 

efficiency and comfort. Unlike typical energy audit programs, the goal of HPWES is to turn 

recommendations into improved homes. The program is managed by a local sponsor that recruits 

qualified home improvement contractors to perform comprehensive home assessments and offer 

a suite of efficiency solutions. Participating contractors complete the renovations or work closely 

with participating contractors who can. Upon completion, the home is reassessed to measure the 

improvement savings gains and ensure satisfaction. In addition to HPWES, EPA offers resources 

for the do-it-yourself (DIY) home improvement market. 

Business case: For participating contractors, HPWES can provide opportunities to expand into new markets, 

improve quality and customer satisfaction, reduce down time or seasonal workload fluctuation, gain a competitive edge, and even achieve higher profit margins. Utilities sponsoring a 

HPWES program can help meet energy efficiency and renewable energy mandates, deliver 

peak demand reductions, delay or avoid energy supply investments, and provide an opportunity to consolidate program delivery to residential customers. For retailers, targeting the DIY 

home improvement market can improve customer loyalty and increase sales by utilizing EPA 

resources and tools. 

Services: EPA and DOE can provide program start up guidance for potential utilities or state energy 

offices. Once a sponsor has submitted an implementation plan and signed the Partnership 

Agreement, EPA will provide the ENERGY STAR logo mark, marketing resources, sales 

training materials, and sponsors outreach campaigns through which contractors and utilities 

can work together to increase awareness of HPWES in the local market. EPA also hosts partner network meetings and offers opportunities for recognition for environmental stewardship. 

Value to environment: Energy efficiency is one of the lowest-cost strategies to address global climate change and air pollution by reducing the amount of emissions associated with the burning of fossil fuels to produce 

energy. In 2006 alone, American homeowners, with the help of ENERGY STAR, avoided GHG 

emissions equivalent to those from more than 250,000 vehicles, while saving almost $170 million 

on their energy bills. 

Sectors most applicable: Real estate development, management, and construction; retailers; utilities/power marketers 

Program Profiles 27
 

 

 

 

 

28 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

Laboratories for the 21st Century 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

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3

Web site: www.labs21century.gov 

Contact Information: Dan Amon 

(202) 564-7509 

amon.dan@epa.gov 

Description: Laboratories for the 21st Century (Labs21) is a voluntary program that saves money at 

laboratories while improving the environment. Laboratories require tens of millions of dollars worth of energy to run and add tens of thousands of pounds of pollution to our air, soil, 

and water. EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy are helping new labs and retrofitting 

existing labs to help cut their energy costs and reduce environmental damage. The goal is to 

create energy self-sufficiency for all EPA labs, modeling these savings for other science labs 

throughout the country. 

Business case: Laboratories can realize significant cost savings through lower laboratory utility and 

operating costs. Implementation also contributes to environmental and health improvements including improved indoor air quality and reduced health and safety risks to 

employees. 

Services: Partners are eligible for national recognition and an enhanced image through program 

events, awards, and promotional materials. In addition, partners have opportunities 

for technical assistance from nationally recognized experts to help meet energy and 

environmental performance goals. Labs 21 also provides partners with opportunities to 

network and share project results with peers from around the world. 

Value to environment: Labs 21 has resulted in reductions in energy and water use and broader environmental benefits such as reduced pollution and GHG emissions. 

Sectors most applicable: Appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing; chemical manufacturing; 

food processors and distributors; oil and gas; semiconductor manufacturing; vehicle 

manufacturing 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

Business Value: 

q Research and development assistance 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

Landfill Methane Outreach Program 

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/lmop 

Contact Information: Rachel Goldstein 

(202) 343-9391 

goldstein.rachel@epa.gov 

Description: The Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP) encourages the recovery of landfill gas 

(LFG)—mainly carbon dioxide and methane—for use as an alternative energy source, thus 

reducing GHG emissions. The program helps partners overcome barriers to project development by helping them assess project feasibility, find financing, and market the benefits of 

project development to the community. 

Business case: LFG projects generate revenue from the sale of the gas. Businesses are also realizing 

the cost savings associated with using LFG as a replacement for more expensive fossil 

fuels, such as natural gas. Some companies will save millions of dollars over the life of 

their LFG energy projects. LFG energy recovery offers communities and landfill owners the opportunity to reduce the costs associated with regulatory compliance by turning 

pollution into a valuable community resource. 

Services: LMOP offers a wide array of free technical, promotional, and informational tools as 

well as support services to assist with the development of LFG projects. These resources include the LMOP Online Toolkit; software tools for estimating emissions and 

emissions rates; a variety of technical documents; and informational brochures, fact 

sheet, and case studies. 

Value to environment: LMOP’s efforts have reduced landfill methane emissions by more than 24 million metric 

tons of carbon equivalent. The GHG reduction benefits are equivalent to having planted 24 

million acres of forest or removed 17 million vehicles from the road. 

Sectors most applicable: Aluminum manufacturing; appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing; cement and lime manufacturing; chemical manufacturing; food processors and 

distributors; general manufacturing; pulp and paper manufacturing; semiconductor 

manufacturing; utilities/power marketers; vehicle fleet owners/shippers; vehicle manufacturing; waste management 

Program Profiles 29
30 

Lean and the Environment Initiative 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

3 3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/lean 

Contact Information: Chris Reed 

(202) 566-0606 

reed.chris@epa.gov 

Description: Lean manufacturing is a business model and collection of tactical methods that emphasize eliminating non-value added activities (waste) while delivering quality products on 

time and at the least cost with greater efficiency. In the United States, lean implementation is rapidly expanding throughout diverse manufacturing and service sectors, such 

as aerospace, automotive, electronics, furniture production, and health care, as a core 

business strategy to create a competitive advantage. 

Business case: Coordinating lean and the environment has a variety of benefits for businesses. They 

are able to reduce costs; improve process flow and reduce lead times; lower regulatory 

noncompliance risk; meet customer expectations; improve environmental quality; and 

improve employee morale and commitment. Implementing lean allows businesses to 

learn to see hidden environmental waste; enhance the effectiveness of lean implementation; and deliver what customers and employees want. 

Services: The Lean and the Environment Initiative provides a variety of resources to enhance the 

integration of lean methods and tools to improve environmental results. The Web site 

contains information on the results of background research EPA has conducted on the 

relationship between lean and environmental performance, case studies, fact sheets, and 

tools containing ideas and techniques for integrating environmental considerations into 

lean initiatives and methods. 

Value to environment: Through its systematic focus on the elimination of non-value added activity, lean manufacturing substantially improves environmental performance. Reducing common types 

of manufacturing waste—defects, waiting, overproduction, movement, inventory, complexity, and unused creativity—yields a variety of environmental benefits, including 

less use of energy, water, and raw materials; reduced generation of solid and hazardous 

wastes; and lower emissions of hazardous air pollutants. 

Sectors most applicable: Aluminum manufacturing; appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing; building materials manufacturing; cement and lime manufacturing; 

chemical manufacturing; food processors and distributors; general manufacturing; pulp and paper manufacturing; semiconductor manufacturing; vehicle 

manufacturing 

• Please note that this program is an EPA-supported program, but it is not formally considered an EPA Partnership Program. 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Research and development assistance 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

Methane to Markets Partnership 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.methanetomarkets.org 

Contact Information: Paul Gunning 

(202) 343-9736 

gunning.paul@epa.gov 

Description: The Methane to Markets Partnership is an international initiative that advances cost-effective, near-term methane recovery and use as a clean energy source. The program seeks to 

reduce global methane emissions to enhance economic growth, strengthen energy security, 

improve air quality, improve industrial safety, and reduce GHG emissions. Methane to Markets focuses on four sources of methane emissions: agriculture (animal waste management), 

coal mines, landfills, and oil and gas systems. 

Business case: Cost-effective technologies for capturing and using methane as a clean energy source 

are available for every sector on which the Methane to Markets Partnership currently 

focuses. The collection and utilization of methane provides a valuable, clean-burning 

energy source that improves quality of life in local communities by generating revenue 

and improving living standards. In addition, capturing methane from underground coal 

mines improves safety conditions by reducing explosion hazards. Participating companies are recognized through active participation in the Project Network. 

Services: Partners share lessons learned and collaborate on projects aimed at addressing challenges 

to methane recovery, raising awareness in key industries and removing barriers to project 

development and implementation. 

Value to environment: Methane is 23 times as potent as carbon dioxide at trapping heat in the atmosphere and contributing to global warming. By 2015, the Methane to Markets Partnership has the potential 

to deliver annual reductions in methane emissions of up to 50 million metric tons of carbon 

equivalent or recover 500 billion cubic feet of natural gas. These reductions, if achieved, 

could lead to stabilized or even declining levels of global atmospheric concentrations of 

methane. 

Sectors most applicable: Coal mining; oil and gas; utilities/power marketers 

Program Profiles 31
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

32 

Mobile Air Conditioning Climate Protection Partnership 

Business Value: 

q New/expanded markets 

q Research and development assistance 

Services Offered: 

3 q Technical assistance 

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/cppd/mac 

Contact Information: Kristen Taddonio 

(202) 343-9234 

taddonio.kristen@epa.gov 

Description: The Mobile Air Conditioning Climate Protection Partnership is a joint initiative founded 

by EPA, the Society of Automotive Engineers, and the Mobile Air Conditioning Society. 

The partnership reduces the environmental impact of mobile air conditioning through the 

recovery and recycling of CFC-12 and HFC-134a refrigerants and the development of new, 

environmentally superior air conditioning technologies. 

Business case: Program participants help promote next-generation mobile air conditioning systems 

that are better for the environment while satisfying customer safety, cost, and reliability 

concerns. Program participants also partner in developing cost-effective designs and 

improved service procedures to minimize refrigerant emissions. 

Services: Partnership, cooperation on research, and development and testing of next-generation 

mobile air conditioning systems; technical assistance. 

Value to environment: Four measures proposed by the partnership (increased cooling efficiency, minimizing 

refrigerant leakage, alternative cooling strategies, and end-of-life servicing) can reduce the 

fuel used by vehicle air conditioners by 30 percent and cut refrigerant emissions in half. 

Combined, these measures could save 2.1 billion gallons of gasoline each year and reduce 

overall GHG emissions by 9 million metric tons of carbon equivalent. 

Sectors most applicable: Vehicle fleet owners/shippers; vehicle manufacturing 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/eeactionplan 

Contact Information: Stacy Angel 

(202) 343-9606 

angel.stacy@epa.gov 

Description: The National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency is a private-public initiative begun in the 

fall of 2005 to create a sustainable, aggressive national commitment to energy efficiency 

through the collaborative efforts of gas and electric utilities, utility regulators, and other 

partner organizations. The U.S. Department of Energy and EPA jointly facilitate the Action 

Plan and its Leadership Group of more than 60 leading privately, publicly, and cooperatively owned electric and gas utilities, utility regulators, state agencies, large energy users, 

consumer advocates, energy service providers, and environmental and energy efficiency 

organizations. 

Business case: Improving the energy efficiency of homes, businesses, schools, governments, and 

industries—which consume more than 70 percent of the natural gas and electricity used 

in the United States—is one of the most constructive, cost-effective ways to address 

the challenges of high energy prices, energy security and independence, environmental 

concerns, and global climate change in the near term. 

Services: The Action Plan provides recognition opportunities for organizations who commitments 

to energy efficiency and/or endorse the Action Plan’s five key policy recommendations. 

Numerous reports, guides, fact sheets and other resources are available via the Web site to 

assist parties in meeting their commitments, including materials from a Sector Collaborative on Energy Efficiency. 

Value to environment: The Action Plan is helping to remove barriers to greater investment in cost-effective energy 

efficiency as a resource in our nation’s energy system. Achieving all cost-effective energy 

efficiency by the year 2025 could result in national reductions in GHG emissions on the 

order of 500 million metric tons of carbon dioxide annually, equivalent to 90 million cars off 

the road. 

Sectors most applicable: Grocers; hospitality; real estate development, management, and construction; retailers; utilities/power marketers 

• Please note that this program is an EPA-supported program, but it is not formally considered an EPA Partnership Program. 

Program Profiles 33
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

34 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q New/expanded markets 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

Natural Gas STAR 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/gasstar 

Contact Information: Roger Fernandez 

(202) 343-9386 

fernandez.roger@epa.gov 

Description: Natural Gas STAR encourages companies across the natural gas and oil industries to adopt 

cost-effective technologies and practices that improve operational efficiency and reduce 

emissions of methane, a potent GHG. The program provides companies with technical 

assistance in the implementation of recommended best management practices and provides 

other strategy suggestions based on successful past experiences of its members. At the same 

time, the program allows EPA to maintain a record of successful methane emissions reduction strategies. 

Business case: Participation in Natural Gas STAR offers quantifiable environmental benefits, but also 

provides opportunities for partners to improve operational efficiency, increase revenues, 

and enhance their competitive edge in the natural gas marketplace. Some Natural Gas 

STAR partners report saving millions of dollars a year worth of natural gas by implementing the leak reduction technologies and practices encouraged by the program. By 

implementing technologies and practices to reduce methane emissions from their operations, companies are able to direct that methane back into the system, often leading to 

an increase in revenue. 

Services: To assist partners in implementing the Natural Gas STAR Program, EPA draws upon the 

wealth of partner-provided information and presents its partners with many opportunities to learn about methane emissions reductions technologies and techniques. Resources 

available to all Gas STAR partners include: detailed information on technologies and 

practices to reduce methane emissions, partner company case studies, technology transfer 

workshops, and an annual implementation workshop. 

Value to environment: Natural Gas STAR industry partners have operations in all of the major natural gas industry 

sectors (production, processing, transmission, and distribution) and represent 56 percent of 

the natural gas industry in the United States. Natural Gas STAR partners have reduced over 

500 billion cubic feet of methane emissions through the implementation of more than 80 

cost-effective technologies and practices. 

Sectors most applicable: Oil and gas 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

Outdoor Hydronic Heaters 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q New/expanded markets 

Services Offered: 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/woodheaters 

Contact Information: Gil Wood 

(919) 541-5272 

wood.gil@epa.gov 

Description/history: Outdoor hydronic heater is another name for an outdoor wood-fired or biomass boiler or 

outdoor wood-fired or biomass furnace. The Outdoor Hydronic Heater (OHH) Program 

encourages manufacturers to develop and distribute cleaner, more efficient outdoor hydronic 

heaters. 

Business case: By becoming a partner of the OHH Program, manufacturers can gain recognition for 

their development of cleaner, more efficient heaters. EPA has designed several easyto-use collateral materials that can be used to promote the program’s efforts. A higherefficiency heater ultimately results in lower fuel costs for the customer. 

Services/resources: EPA provides program support to encourage the purchase of cleaner, more efficient outdoor hydronic heater models where consumers have made the choice to purchase an OHH 

over other heating devices. In addition to outreach and technical assistance, EPA provides 

text labels that identify which models meet EPA program requirements. 

Value to environment: Current outdoor wood heaters are significantly more polluting than other home-heating 

devices. They can create heavy smoke and particulates, which is a nuisance, in addition to 

posing risks to public health in populated areas. Phase 1 and Phase 2 levels emit approximately 70 percent and 90 percent less respectively than previous models. 

Sectors most applicable: Appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing 

Program Profiles 35
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

36 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

Performance Track (National Environmental Performance Track) 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/performancetrack 

Contact Information: Julie Spyres 

(202) 566-2885 

spyres.julie@epa.gov 

Description: Performance Track recognizes and drives environmental excellence by encouraging facilities with strong environmental records to go above and beyond their legal requirements. 

Member facilities voluntarily commit to typically four public, measurable goals to improve 

the quality of our nation’s air, water, and land. Members include major corporations, small 

business, and public facilities that are steering a course toward environmental excellence— 

and setting an example for others to follow. 

Reducing GHGs is now the most common air emissions goal set by Performance Track 

members. EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation offers an energy use reduction challenge goal 

for non-transportation energy use. In order to receive credit, a Performance Track facility 

must set a goal to reduce its energy use by at least 10 percent before normalizing. All 10 regions are participating, and many are making transportation energy reduction goals as well. 

Business case: The Performance Track program helps facilities establish and maintain their role as 

environmental leaders as well as gain recognition they deserve. The program also helps 

facilities capture opportunities for reducing cost and spurring technological innovation. By focusing on continuous improvement and achieving measurable environmental 

results, member facilities are better able to reduce the chance of encountering any interruptions in their operations. 

Services: Performance Track offers members networking opportunities, public recognition events, 

guidance documents and other forms of assistance such as teleseminars on specific 

environmental topics and best practices. Regulatory and administrative incentives are 

designed to reward members, who have demonstrated strong environmental records and 

a commitment to continuous improvement by reducing member transaction costs such as 

reduced self-reporting and expedited permit reviews. 

Value to environment: To date, facilities have set 75 GHG emission reduction goals, leading to 309,780 metric tons 

of carbon dioxide equivalent savings (the annual emissions of 57,000 cars). Many energyand waste-related goals also aid in members’ push to reduce emissions. All told, almost 900 

member goals address climate change either directly or indirectly. 

Sectors most applicable: All 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

PFC Emission Reduction Partnership 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Technical assistance 

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/semiconductor-pfc 

Contact Information: Sally Rand 

(202) 343-9739 

rand.sally@epa.gov 

Description: The PFC Emission Reduction Partnership encourages semiconductor companies to commit 

to reducing the emissions levels of perfluorocompounds (PFCs), which are potent GHGs. 

Program members commit to reducing PFC emissions to 10 percent below the 1995 baseline level by 2010. The partnership promotes the use of various environmentally superior 

technologies and alternative chemicals. 

Business case: Partners receive recognition and save money by sharing information on cost-effective 

pollution prevention with many of the world’s leading semiconductor manufacturers 

committed to climate protection. The partnership provides partners with broad latitude 

to pursue the goal of reducing PFC emissions. 

Services: Technical papers; emissions models. 

Value to environment: The partnership seeks to reduce PFCs. PFCs are highly potent GHGs and are also generally 

very stable chemicals; they possess atmospheric lifetimes from 264 to 50,000 years. Consequently, these gases will accumulate in the atmosphere and their effect on the climate will be 

felt by many future generations. 

Sectors most applicable: Appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing; semiconductor manufacturing 

Program Profiles 37
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

38 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Matching buyers/sellers 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

Plug-In To eCycling 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/epaoswer/osw/conserve/plugin 

Contact Information: Verena Radulovic 

(703) 605-0760 

radulovic.verena@epa.gov 

Description: Plug-In to eCycling is a campaign run by EPA and industry partners that encourages 

people to recycle and reuse old electronic devices. The program is part of EPA’s Resource 

Conservation Challenge. Partner companies agree to assist with recycling events or with 

the promotion of the program. The program’s goal is to reduce the amount of waste (both 

of materials such as plastics and hazardous substances such as lead) that results from the 

disposal of old electronics. 

Business case: Manufacturers and retailers can set up or participate in collection programs for used 

electronics equipment, solidifying the company’s reputation as a good environmental 

steward. 

Services: Partners receive many benefits and incentives by becoming a part of the Plug-In To eCycling Campaign, including technical assistance and guidance in developing or expanding 

a donation or recycling initiatives for consumers; networking and partnership opportunities with other retailer and manufacturer partners; working with EPA regions to expand 

local and regional awareness for your company’s initiatives; and public recognition from 

EPA for your efforts. 

Value to environment: Recycling these electronics recovers valuable materials that can be used to make new products, which also results in a reduction in GHG emissions and pollution and saves energy and 

resources by extracting fewer raw materials from the earth. 

Sectors most applicable: Appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing; retailers 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q Research and development assistance 

q Risk management 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

Responsible Appliance Disposal Program 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/Ozone/partnerships/rad/index.html 

Contact Information: Evelyn Swain 

(202) 343-9956 

swain.evelyn@epa.gov 

Description: The Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) Partnership program encourages consumers to 

retire old, inefficient refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning units, and dehumidifiers, and 

implements best practices for the recycling/disposal. 

Business case: EPA provides partner recognition for achievement through press releases, brochures, 

articles, and awards. 

Services: As part of the program, EPA serves as a technical clearinghouse on responsible appliance disposal program development and implementation; calculates annual and 

cumulative program benefits in terms of GHG and ozone-depleting substances (ODSs) 

emissions savings and equivalents and, as available, potential cost savings. EPA’s Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) program evaluates substitutes for the ODSs 

to reduce overall risk to human health and the environment. Through these evaluations, 

SNAP generates lists of acceptable and unacceptable substitutes for each of the major 

industrial use sectors. 

Value to environment: Refrigerators and freezers manufactured before 1995 contain chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) 

which are potent ODSs. The RAD Partnership is designed to encourage the retirement and 

proper disposal of these older units while ensuring that CFCs in the insulation foam within 

the cabinet walls and in the refrigerant are captured and destroyed or recycled. Because 

CFCs are also potent GHGs, their recovery and destruction will also reduce U.S. emissions 

that contribute to climate change. 

Sectors most applicable: Appliance, electronic, industrial equipment manufacturing; retailers; utilities/power 

marketers 

Program Profiles 39
 

 

 

 

40 

SF6 Emission Reduction Partnership for Electric Power Systems 

Business Value: 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

3 3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/electricpower-sf6 

Contact Information: Sally Rand 

(202) 343-9739 

rand.sally@epa.gov 

Description: This program helps electric power companies economically reduce sulfur hexafluoride (SF6

) 

emissions by reducing the leak rate of new equipment, refurbishing older equipment, and 

employing more efficient operation and maintenance techniques. Partners set emissions 

goals and work toward them utilizing a variety of strategies, including replacement and 

maintenance of equipment and SF6 recovery. 

Business case: Through the program, electric power companies have significantly reduced SF6

 leakage 

caused by aging equipment and during equipment maintenance and repair. Based on an 

average cost of SF6 at $9 per pound, partner companies saved $2.5 million in SF6 leak 

reduction and recovery between 1999 to 2002. 

Services: EPA helps partner companies track and document emissions reductions. EPA also provides technical assistance and public recognition for SF6 emissions reduction projects. 

EPA shares information on technical issues and best management practices that can help 

reduce emissions. 

Value to environment: As of September 2007, 81 companies had joined the partnership, representing approximately 

42 percent of the industry. Participating companies have reduced SF6 emissions rates from 

17 percent in 1999 to 8.3 percent in 2005. 

Sectors most applicable: Metals mining; utilities/power marketers 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

Services Offered: 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

Smart Growth Network 

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/smartgrowth 

www.smartgrowth.org 

Contact Information: Geoff Anderson 

(202) 566-2878 

anderson.geoffrey@epa.gov 

Description: This is a partnership of government, business, and civic organizations that works to encourage land use development that serves the economy, the community, and the environment. 

Since its creation in late 1996, the Smart Growth Network (SGN) has become a storehouse 

of knowledge about smart growth principles, facilitating the sharing of best practices and 

acting as a catalyst for implementation of ideas. 

Business case: The high quality of life in communities that consider smart growth makes them economically competitive, creates business opportunities, and improves the local tax base. 

Services: SGN conducts research; publishes reports and other publications; showcases outstanding communities; works with communities through grants and technical assistance; and 

brings together diverse interests to encourage better growth and development. The SGN 

Web site provides a variety of resources, including information on funding opportunities, 

regulatory and policy analysis, and promoting smart growth in your community. SGN 

members gain access to the bimonthly electronic newsletter “Getting Smart!;” the SGN 

listserv, where members can share information and get advice from other members around 

the country; and the SGN Information Hotline service, which allows members to request 

research assistance and expert advice on a broad array of topics. 

Value to environment: Smart growth practices can lessen the environmental impacts of development with techniques such as compact development, reduced impervious surfaces and improved water 

detention, safeguarding of environmentally sensitive areas, mixing of land uses (e.g., homes, 

offices, and shops), transit accessibility, and better pedestrian and bicycle amenities. A 2005 

Seattle study found that residents of neighborhoods where land uses are mixed and streets 

are better connected, making non-auto travel easier and more convenient, traveled 26 percent fewer vehicle miles than residents of neighborhoods that were more dispersed and less 

connected. 

Sectors most applicable: Real estate development, management, and construction 

• Please note that this program is an EPA-supported program, but it is not formally considered an EPA Partnership Program. 

Program Profiles 41
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SmartWay Transport Partnership 

42 

Business Value: Services Offered: 

q3 Brand/reputation protection/enhancement q3 Analytical tools

q3 Cost savings/operational efficiency q3 Guidebooks/toolkits

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/smartway 

Contact Information: 

Description: 

Business case: 

Services: 

Value to environment: 

Mitch Greenberg 

(202) 343-9269 

greenberg.mitchell@epa.gov 

EPA launched the SmartWay Transport Partnership in 2004 to address the environmental and 

economic challenges surrounding growth in the freight industry. It is an innovative collaboration 

between EPA and the freight industry designed to improve energy efficiency and lower GHGs 

and air pollution. Companies participating in SmartWay save money, reduce fuel consumption and are recognized for their stewardship and environmental leadership. High performing 

partners use the SmartWay Transport Partner logo, enabling customers to recognize their commitment and success in saving energy and lowering GHG. More recently, the U.S. EPA certified 

SmartWay logo became available to allow consumers to quickly and easily identify the cleanest, 

most fuel-efficient trucks and cars on the road today. 

Any company that ships products stands to improve its bottom line by joining EPA’s SmartWay Transport Partnership. SmartWay partners have made commitments that are estimated 

to be saving more than 600 million gallons of diesel fuel a year. Companies achieve these 

benefits through technology-based equipment options and logistics management strategies 

promoted by the partnership. Freight carriers that join SmartWay are recognized for their 

environmental leadership, and gain loyalty among their customers seeking to ship goods 

using clean and cost-efficient transportation. Likewise, shippers that join SmartWay can 

gain public recognition, soften their environmental footprint, and make progress in achieving their fuel efficiency goals. 

Through SmartWay EPA provides technical assistance, helping partners benchmark and 

achieve their goals to improve energy efficiency and lower GHGs. Specifically the program 

provides modeling tools, information exchange and data that identify fuel use, emissions 

output and the effectiveness of a broad range of technology, equipment controls and fuelsaving logistics management strategies. SmartWay also has encouraged financial institutions 

to provide flexible, reduced-interest loans to improve access to these fuel-saving technologies and pollution controls. EPA also has developed specifications for truck equipment and 

cars. Partners also have access to marketing resources and may qualify to use the SmartWay 

partner mark. 

Through SmartWay companies are eliminating over seven million metric tons of CO2

 emissions. By 2012, the SmartWay initiative aims to reduce between 33 million and 66 million 

metric tons of CO2 emissions and up to 200,000 tons of NOX emissions per year. 

Sectors most applicable: Food processors and distributors; general manufacturing; oil and gas; retailers; vehicle 

fleet owners/shippers; vehicle manufacturing 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

Voluntary Aluminum Industrial Partnership 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/highgwp/aluminum-pfc 

Contact Information: Sally Rand 

(202) 343-9739 

rand.sally@epa.gov 

Description: The Voluntary Aluminum Industrial Partnership (VAIP) works with aluminum smelters to 

increase production efficiency and implement other cost-effective strategies to reduce the 

emissions of perfluorocarbon (PFC), a potent GHG. 

Business case: In addition to the environmental benefits, participation improves operational efficiency 

and benefits a company’s bottom line. A study conducted by VAIP found a number of 

benefits associated with reducing anode effects, including decreased power consumption; improved aluminum production; improved aluminum purity; decreased carbon 

consumption; decreased fluoride consumption; decreased labor costs; and increased 

production pot life. 

Services: Through VAIP, EPA assists partners in identifying and evaluating the factors that influence the generation of PFCs; serves as a clearinghouse for technical information on 

successful strategies to reduce PFC emissions; provides partners with recognition for their 

achievements in protecting the climate; and supports the development of high-quality 

emissions data. 

Value to environment: VAIP partners have reduced PFC emissions per ton of aluminum produced by 77 percent 

between 1990 and 2004. This reduction is equivalent to eliminating the emissions from 

more than 1.5 million cars. 

Sectors most applicable: Aluminum manufacturing 

Program Profiles 43
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

44 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

Services Offered: 

q Analytical tools 

q Environmental performance benchmarking 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

q Technical assistance 

q Training/seminars 

WasteWise 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/wastewise 

Contact Information: Terry Grist 

(703) 308-7257 

grist.terry@epa.gov 

Description: The WasteWise program helps companies eliminate costly municipal solid waste and select 

industrial wastes. Partners set waste reduction goals and design waste reduction plans tailored to their businesses. 

Business case: WasteWise partners reduce purchasing and waste disposal costs. WasteWise provides 

free technical assistance to help companies develop, implement, and measure their 

waste reduction activities. 

Services: Through WasteWise, EPA provides partners with access to a variety of resources, including a helpline; technical assistance; public recognition and awards; partner forums; and a 

variety of publications. 

Value to environment: WasteWise partners have reported more than 120 million tons of waste reduced since 1994. 

As a result of these activities, WasteWise partners have made significant achievements in 

reducing their impact on global climate change by cutting GHG emissions by more than 7.3 

million metric tons of carbon equivalent. 

Sectors most applicable: All 

A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Business Value: 

q Brand/reputation protection/enhancement 

q Cost savings/operational efficiency 

q New/expanded markets 

q Research and development assistance 

Services Offered: 

q Guidebooks/toolkits 

q Matching buyers/sellers 

q Professional networking 

q Public recognition 

WaterSense 

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

Web site: www.epa.gov/watersense 

Contact Information: WaterSense Helpline 

(866) WTR-SENS (987-7367) 

watersense@epa.gov 

Description: WaterSense is an EPA Partnership Program sponsored by EPA whose mission is to protect 

the future of our nation’s water supply by promoting and enhancing the market for waterefficient products and services. Saving water is easy—many products are already available 

for use, and it doesn’t require changing the way most of us live or do business. 

Business case: Water-efficiency programs are an effective way for businesses to reduce operating 

costs by saving on electric power, gas, chemical, and wastewater disposal expenses. By 

employing water-efficient practices, a business can convey an image of stewardship to 

employees, customers, and the general public. 

Services: WaterSense partners have access to a variety of tools and resources to help promote their 

partnership with EPA, as well as the importance of water efficiency. Resources include 

promotional labels, logos, and toolkits. 

Value to environment: Reducing household water use helps reduce the energy required to supply and treat public 

water supplies and can also help address climate change. In fact: 

• If one out of every 100 American homes retrofitted with water-efficient fixtures, we 

could save about 100 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year—avoiding 

80,000 tons of GHG emissions. That is equivalent to removing nearly 15,000 automobiles from the road for one year. 

• If 1 percent of American homes replaced an older toilet with a high-efficiency toilet, the 

country would save more than 38 million kWh of electricity—enough to supply more 

than 43,000 households with electricity for one month. 

Sectors most applicable: All 

Program Profiles 45
46 A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 
 

Appendix A: Resources 

The publications referenced in the “Climate Strategy for Business” section can be found on the Web sites listed to the right of 

the publication name. 

Publication Web site 

A Program Guide to Climate Leaders www.epa.gov/climateleaders/documents/cl_programguide_508.pdf 

Issue Brief on Climate Change www.bsr.org/research/issue-brief-details.cfm?DocumentID=48802 

A Three-Pronged Approach to Corporate 

Climate Strategy 

www.bsr.org/reports/BSR_Climate-Change-Report.pdf 

Getting Ahead of the Curve: Corporate 

Strategies that Address Climate Change 

www.pewclimate.org/docUploads/PEW_CorpStrategies.pdf 

Hot Climate, Cool Commerce: A Service 

Sector Guide to Greenhouse Gas Management 

http://pdf.wri.org/hotclimatecoolcommerce.pdf 

A Climate of Innovation: Northeast Business 

Action to Reduce Greenhouse Gases 

www.climatenortheast.org/pdfs/climate_of_innovation.pdf 

Offsetting Emissions: A Business Brief on the 

Voluntary Carbon Market (Second Edition) 

www.bsr.org/reports/BSR_Voluntary-Carbon-Offsets-2.pdf 

Beyond Neutrality: Moving Your Company 

Toward Climate Leadership 

www.bsr.org/reports/BSR_Beyond-Neutrality.pdf 

Getting Carbon Offsets Right www.bsr.org/reports/BSR_Getting-Carbon-Offsets-Right.pdf 

Appendix A 47
48 A Business Guide to 

U.S. EPA Climate Partnership Programs 

EPA-100-B-08-001 

June 2008 

www.epa.gov 

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