‘Green’ speaker will share benefits of adopting new practices

The upcoming Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce Eco-nomics Upbeat Breakfast and North Idaho Green Expo begins with networking and introductions at 7 a.m. Next Peter Grubb, from ROW Adventures, will speak on Eco-Tourism from 7:55 to 8 a.m. Keynote speaker Dave Porter will speak at 8 a.m. about “The Eco-Nomics of Going Green.” Porter is a nationally recognized speaker, trainer and writer with more than 30 years experience in real estate and mortgage lending. He instructs the GREEN designation course for the Realtor Association, and the Certified Green Professional course for the National Association of Home Builders. Porter holds a bachelor’s degree from Washington State University and has taught at Seattle Pacific University, plus Tacoma and Bellevue community colleges. Todd Christensen, chamber president and general manager, said attendees will learn about the “eco-nomic” value and importance of living green; the opportunities of sustainable green, clean industries; and best green practices. Information will be available about strategies, materials, and technologies that can impact both a company’s bottom line, and also reduce the burden on Kootenai County’s energy infrastructure. Christensen says that approximately 250-300 people attended last year’s event. “We had numerous exhibitors discussing the importance of building green and adopting green practices in the construction industry,” he said. Because of current economic challenges, Christensen says it makes “eco-nomic” sense to broaden the scope and emphasize sustainability this year. “From a business standpoint, we want to discuss what is practical and not practical to reduce a company’s expense by improving their energy consumption.” For instance, he says highly efficient buildings can be built, but often can be cost prohibitive. “Sometimes it is better to look at what we can do to existing buildings that would make economical sense,” said Christensen. The North Idaho Green Expo follows, from 8:45 a.m. to 11 a.m., and is open to the public. Christensen expects a wide range of exhibitors from energy-efficient companies to packaging and recycling businesses. Exhibitor space is currently available. The Chamber’s “ECO-omics” Sub Committee meets regularly and has authored a handbook of Sustainable and Green Business Best Management Practices. The directory can be found at www.cdachamber.com. It’s broken down by category with business practices accompanied by available resources. Christensen feels there is enormous potential for the business community to succeed while improving their bottom line, and at the same time, utilize sustainable and green business practices. “The Chamber is committed to providing information and resources to support and promote member businesses’ utilizing sustainable and green business practices as an economic development tool,” says Christensen.