Trade Pub Calls 2009 ‘Year of Greenhouse Sustainability’

on Dec 15 in Related stories

ANLA: The Pursuit of Green
Bob Dolibois, Grower Talks
December 2009

There’s a lot about this year that’s worth forgetting … and the sooner, the better! However, there is one aspect of this year that deserves closer examination: 2009 was the year our industry discovered sustainability.

Some early-adopters in our industry can already speak from experience about embracing sustainability in their businesses. But let’s be honest: For most of us, this sustainability thing has just started earning our attention.

The signs of that attention are all around us. The trade press has delivered yard of type on the subject, with blogs arriving weekly. Associations like ANLA now feature education sessions on the topic. “The Pursuit of Green” has all the makings of a double entendre in every corner of horticulture.

So, how we doin’? Is sustainability shaping up to be the life preserver for an industry struggling with a shrinking market? Or is sustainability a Trojan horse delivered by the greenies bent on eliminating every blade of turf and hyper-thirsty bedding plant in our galaxy? Answer: it’s too early to tell. But let’s score the match so far.

Renewable Energy Conversions. Informed people are aware of multiple businesses that have converted from 20th century energy sources to newer 21st century approaches like wind, solar and biofuel. Neat stuff! The savings are sometimes startling, and certainly a reason to take a look.

At the same time, can something this good last forever? In most cases, the single-most significant positive factor is the size of the grant or tax credit that’s awarded for making the conversion. Given the economy and stressed budgets of governments providing these grants and credits, it’s practical to assume that these incentives aren’t going to be around forever. So move quickly.

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