Cape Girardeau environmental group launches 'green' business program

The Southeast Missouri Climate Protection Initiative has launched a program to recognize local businesses that are "going green."

So far, 36 businesses have agreed to participate in the 'Local Businesses Go Green' program but leader Jill Wicks hopes many more businesses will join in the effort. Participants include those from the restaurant, manufacturing and grocery sectors.

"Many businesses are already conserving energy and we want to let the public know which ones are making that effort," Wicks said. "We're wanting to show businesses that the little things they do counts.

"There's such a misperception out there that going green costs you a lot of money and that may be true in some cases. But mostly it's just taking steps such as recycling cans or using florescent light bulbs."

To increase participation in the program the Southeast Missouri Climate Protection Initiative and the Southeast Missouri League of Women Voters have released a survey through the Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce's weekly newsletter. The survey can be accessed at http://cstl.semo.edu/SEMOCPI/Projects/Businesses_Go_Green_Recognition.htm.

Look for more on this story later in the day at semissourian.com and in Wednesday's edition of the Southeast Missourian.