New Chamber Environmental Affairs Committee launches education and business assessment programs; guardian award to debut at Chamber Ball

Lori Savage, director of community relations and corporate philanthropy at Marriott Vacations Worldwide and chair of the Chamber's Environmental Affairs Committee, said the newly formed committee (launched in April) focuses on three priorities: education, environmental assessments for local businesses, and serving as a sustainability resource for the business community.

Savage said the committee conducts business assessments by meeting with company leaders, performing department visits and producing a final assessment with recommendations for implementation. The committee will draw on subject matter experts, including representatives such as Pete Nardi from Hilton Head PSD, to advise businesses on water stewardship and other practices.

The committee has established a guardian award to recognize a local business, organization or individual for environmental stewardship, employee and customer education, leadership and innovation; Savage said the award will be presented at the Chamber Ball Saturday.

Savage encouraged businesses to use the online green business resources on the Chamber's website, highlighted a green business spotlight program and listed the next committee meeting for Feb. 17 at 08:30 a.m. in the Chamber boardroom.