The government is going green and helping businesses do the same. With GREEN Energy, recycling and environmental responsibility becoming hot button issues (with some already becoming legislative mandates) the Federal Government and State Governments offer incentives and tax credits for businesses and individuals to Go Green .
Learn about government regulations that are already in place, especially when it comes to the safe disposal of hazardous materials commonly found in the workplace.
The links below help you sort through the government lingo to learn how you can bring money to your business for all of your green projects.
Go Green, Earn Money
The government will help you Go Green, not just by saving money, but by earning money.
Federal Funding, Incentives and Tax Breaks
Tax Credits for Businesses
Businesses that make energy efficient purchases including hybrid vehicles and energy-efficient construction, and/or make improvements to the energy efficiency of commercial buildings may be eligible for tax credits. Eligible energy efficient improvements to buildings are outlined in the Energy Policy Act of 2005 . Business tax credit information can be found here; scroll to the bottom of the page for a list of items that can earn you tax breaks.
For ideas about Green Construction, visit the United States Green Buildings Council (USGBC) . Learn more about the USGBC LEED Building Classifications .
US Department of Energy: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Funding Opportunities
The US Department of Energy offers a variety of grants and financial support to small business innovators in green technology. Explore the DOE site to find out what may be available for you.
Energy for America's Future
Visit the White House site for information on energy efficiency strategies, objectives and policies. Learn more about how the Energy Bill affects you and your business.
State Incentives
DSIRE: Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
A definitive source, the DSIRE allows you to search for incentives in all fifty states; Washington, DC; and US territories in the categories of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency
DSIRE: New York Incentives List
New York Incentives for Energy Efficiency: Appliance and Equipment Energy Efficiency Standards
For information about incentives for the purchase of consumer AV products in New York, visit the site above. Searches of other states through the DSIRE Home Page will locate similar incentives.
Mercury Disposal
Federal Mercury Laws and Regulations
The federal government recognizes the need for the safe disposal of mercury (found in AV and computer equipment) and outlines general regulations, put in place by the Environmental Protection Agency.
To learn more about federal mercury guidelines and mercury waste classification, click here .
For a list of household, office and commercial products containing mercury, click here .
State Mercury Laws and Regulations
In addition to general federal guidelines, states have imposed their own regulations for mercury disposal. Often, state regulations are more stringent than federal, so it is important to review the guidelines for your state to make sure that you are taking appropriate steps to avoid releasing hazardous levels of mercury into the environment (and to avoid fines).
Mercury and Lamp Recycling
Learn more about the EPA's plan for Lamp Recycling .
Connect with Lamp Recyclers in your area .
State Lamp Recycling Procedures
For an interactive map, visit www.lamprecycle.org . Be sure to click on “State Lamp Recycling Regulations and Contacts”
State Mercury Legislation
Learn about bans, phase-outs and recycling options in your state.
Electronics Recycling Regulations
In an effort to prevent the pileup of dangerous electronics waste in landfills, states are now mandating safe electronics disposal. Recycling programs and procedures vary by state. Find out what the laws are in your state and learn how you can safely dispose of electronics.
State Electronics Recycling Programs & Policies
Search this interactive list for electronics recycling programs and policies in your state. Find recycling centers near you.
Council of State Governments Eastern Regional Conference
Find up-to-date information on US state electronics regulation, products, legislative history and disposal ban status.
Guide to International Electronics Recycling Regulations
Electronics regulations are not limited to the United States. Learn about regulations for safe disposal throughout the world. |
