GCRTA recognized for green practices

Crain's Cleveland Business recognized the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority with a 2011 Emerald Award, distinguishing outstanding Northeast Ohio companies for increased sustainability efforts and a decreased carbon footprint. GCRTA won in the large non-profit category. The Emerald Awards define sustainability as, "the commercialization or adaptation of processes and products which are both feasible, economical and make a positive impact on the triple bottom line -- Profits, People, Planet." GCRTA won for its goals to strive for social, environmental and economical sustainability throughout its system. The GCRTA Board of Trustees adopted a Policy Statement and Environmental Commitments to bring value and awareness to employees and customers in order to reduce carbon emissions. The long term Carbon Management Plan calls for a 20 percent reduction in emissions throughout GCRTA by 2019. Some early successes come from zero waste initiatives through recycling and compost collection and decreased cost and increased effectiveness through energy-efficient lighting retrofits at several facilities. GCRTA will receive the Emerald Award at Cleveland State University on Sept. 20.