Green Cincinnati Plan Addressing Environmental Issues through Support of Business Owners and Start-ups

Abstract

Record ID: 79

Award(s): Excellence in Research Communication

Program Affiliation: Capstone

Presentation Type: Poster

Abstract: The business market is one of the largest contributors to environmental problems, but many organizations are unsure of how to change their practices to become a "green" business. The city of Cincinnati has adopted the quinquennial Green Cincinnati Plan (GCP) in order to address the various environmental problems plaguing our city, including market issues. This raises the questions of: How can the Green Cincinnati Plan and its partners aid in supporting local businesses, specifically minority and woman owned, in enacting green practices to address environmental issues? Is this even a feasible goal in the city of Cincinnati? Through research of the current state of this GCP goal, it has been found out that there are attempts at supporting small businesses in becoming a green business through organizations such as 513 Green and 2030 District. There is little to no attempt yet in the city of Cincinnati to offer incentives for sustainable businesses practices, nor any solutions targeted specifically at minority or woman owned businesses. It is evidenced that there is a demand for green businesses from consumers, but what is the benefit for business owners? Have other cities adopted incentive programs for small businesses to enact sustainability plans, and would they be a model for Cincinnati? The outcome of the work will further help Cincinnati and other cities to adopt solutions to aid business owners in implementing sustainable practices. Supporting businesses in adopting sustainable practices is beneficial for addressing pressing environmental concerns that threaten the preservation of our natural environment.