Commitment to Conservation Program

Guidelines for Earning the Fannin County Conservation Badge

The Fannin County Chamber of Commerce invites local businesses in Blue Ridge, GA, to join our Commitment to Conservation Program. This initiative recognizes and rewards businesses that actively adopt eco-friendly practices, demonstrating a dedication to preserving the natural beauty and resources of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Participating businesses that meet the program requirements will earn a Conservation Badge (or plaque), showcasing their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
A window cling and certificate

Requirements
To qualify for the Commitment of Conservation, businesses must adopt practices in at least three of the following categories:

  1. Community Engagement and Education
    1. Host or participate in conservation initiatives
    2. Offer educational workshops online content promoting conservation awareness
    3. Encourage employees to volunteer for conservation programs by providing paid volunteer hours
    4. Engage with the chamber of commerce in volunteer opportunities
      1. Example: The Chamber prints Lights Off. Fireflies On! postcards to educate visitors and locals about the importance of turning lights off at night to protect the firefly population. You can request postcards from us to display in your office, cabin, etc.
  2. Waste Reduction and Recycling
    1. Implement a recycling program for paper, plastics, glass, and other materials
    2. Reduce single-use plastics by offering alternatives (e.g., reusable or biodegradable options)
    3. Encourage waste reduction through digital receipts, reusable containers, and bulk purchasing
      1. Example: Reusable or biodegradable bags or other products.
  3. Energy Efficiency
    1. Upgrade to energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and equipment
    2. Use renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind, where feasible
    3. Monitor and reduce energy consumption through regular audits
    4. Become a certified Dark Sky location. Learn more https://darksky.org/.
      1. Example: You implement motion sensor lighting.
  4. Water Conservation
    1. Install water-saving devices, such as low-flow faucets and toilets
    2. Use rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation
    3. Educate employees and customers about water-saving habits
    4. Contribution to trout water preservation
      1. Example: Reduce plastic water bottle usage by using glass or metal reusable bottles and/or you have a water fountain for a larger filtration system for your office.
  5. Sustainable Sourcing
    1. Source goods and materials locally to reduce the carbon footprint
    2. Prioritize suppliers that follow sustainable and ethical practices
    3. Use eco-friendly, biodegradable, or recyclable materials in your products or packaging
  6. Wildlife and Habitat Preservation
    1. Support local conservation efforts, such as tree-planting projects or wildlife habitat protection
    2. Limit the use of harmful pesticides or chemicals that may harm local ecosystems
    3. Provide educational materials about local flora and fauna to customers
    4. Contribute to native species, pollinators, and pursue environmental opportunities
    5. Volunteer with local conservation groups and organizations
    6. Participate in the Fannin County Firefly Initiative
      1. Example: July 2 is Fannin County Firefly Day and leading up to the day, the Chamber will encourage businesses to engage by having firefly themed activities, food, drink, etc. for patrons.
  7. Milkweed Seeds
    1. Plant now for self-stratification

Application and Approval

  1. Submit your Application with a $50 Application Fee
  2. Site Visit or Review
  3. Approval and Recognition (from the Chamber)

Maintaining the Award

To maintain the Conservation Badge, businesses must continue to uphold their conservation practices and provide an annual report outlining their ongoing efforts. Periodic re-evaluations may occur to ensure compliance.

Benefits of Participation

  • Marketing
    • Display your window cling to highlight your commitment to sustainability.
    • Place the C2C logo on your website.
    • Features on the Chamber's social media (FB, IG, LinkedIn).
    • Placement on the BlueRidgeMountains.com Conservation website page.
  • Networking
    • Join a network of like-minded businesses dedicated to sustainable growth and environmental stewardship.
    • You may be invited to special conservation events throughout the year.
  • Community Impact
    • Contribute to the protection and preservation of the North Georgia Mountains, while engaging with the local community on important conservation efforts.
    • Make a difference for generations to come!

Application Form

Commitment to Conservation Practices

Please indicate the conservation categories your business actively participates in by checking the relevant boxes. You will meet the requirements by checking off at least three categories to qualify for this program. You may check multiple boxes in the same category. For example, your three boxes can be checked in the same category.

(Optional) Please submit an impact statement. Why is this commitment important to you? What are you proud of?
Once your application is submitted, a representative from the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce may contact you to schedule a site visit or review your conservation practices. Following the review, businesses that meet the program requirements will be officially recognized and awarded the Fannin County Conservation Badge. *The terms Badge/Cling/Logo are used interchangeably for the purpose of the program. Business Certification and Acknowledgment: I certify that the information provided in this application is accurate and truthful to the best of my knowledge. I understand that upon approval, my business will be recognized by the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce and will receive a Conservation Badge to display in my place of business. I agree to maintain the conservation practices outlined in this application and submit an annual report as required to maintain the badge. I acknowledge that periodic re-evaluations may occur to ensure continued compliance.

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How to Submit Your Application:

Along with your application, you will need to submit a $50 check to the address below or click here for payment.

Email: Admin@BlueRidgeMountains.com

Mail: 152 Orvin Lance Dr, Ste. A, Blue Ridge, GA 30513

Questions: 706-632-5680 or email Admin@BlueRidgeMountains.com