The largest class of awardees in Lexington’s “Green Check” program has been recognized. 12 new businesses and nine recertifying businesses were given plaques Wednesday at a McConnell Springs ceremony. They aim to increase their sustainability efforts through a personalized consultation and scorecard. Flora Cliff Nature Sanctuary earned the highest score. Preserve Director Beverly James said the broader hope is a move toward sustainability in recognition of climate change issues. “You know there’s a lot that needs to be done for climate change. A lot of individual actions that can add up collectively, but also making it more visible to our community and also to those that are in the positions of making policy and changing policy can really see that this stuff does make a difference,” said James. At the nature sanctuary in rural Fayette County, James says the Green Check exercise included putting current practices down on paper. She says that might be related to energy consumption, impacts to bio-diversity, and even ensuring efficiencies in plumbing. Chrissie Balding coordinated the award program through Lexington’s Environmental Quality and Public Works Division. Balding said a designer jewelry store in Lexington was another award winner. “Savane Silver, which was our smallest business this year, just a one person shop. She uses recycled silver and also collects the silver dust and sends it back to the refiner to be reused,” said Balding. Balding noted businesses can implement various measures from switching to LED lighting, removing lights from vending machines, have a water bottle filling station, and making recycling easier. Balding added there was scoring in several different categories including energy efficiency, water conservation, transportation efficiency, and innovation. ** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, and fact-based journalism. Monthly supporters are the top funding source for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation. The post 21 businesses honored by Lexington sustainability program appeared first on The Lexington Times.