Lakeshore Recycle Systems, 2300 Carlson Dr – Gold

The LRS Northbrook Materials Recycling Facility is integral to sustainable waste management practices and will divert approximately 78 million pounds of post-consumer products each year from landfill disposal. LRS is committed to sustainable practices and an active partner with Northbrook in the implementation of the Climate Action Plan.

Additionally, the development and operation of the facility employ effective sustainable practices:

• Operational changes and electrification of on-site equipment will eliminate 20,000 to 41,000 gallons of diesel fuel usage each year.
• LED lighting installed throughout the facility (interior and exterior).
• Native plants and pollinator-friendly species maintained in the stormwater detention basin.

Northbrook Public Library, 1201 Cedar Ln – Silver  

The Northbrook Public Library nurtures community and stimulates lifelong learning through innovative, responsive services and delivers excellent customer service to create a welcoming, inclusive environment.

Some examples of the Library’s ongoing partnership and commitment to Village sustainability goals are as follows:

• Adoption of Northbrook’s Climate Action Plan and formation of an internal Climate Action Plan Committee staff team.
• Several waste reduction initiatives including waste tracking, reusable product procurement, food waste receptacles for staff, and creation of a “Guidelines for Zero Waste Events” program.
• Provisions to encourage active transportation such as bike racks and commuter benefits for employees.

Shred Spot, 3141 MacArthur Blvd – Bronze

Environmental sustainability is at the core of local business Shred Spot’s mission. Shred Spot provides convenient and secure paper and electronics destruction services. For each ton of paper shredded by Shred Spot, the recycled paper created saves 17 trees from being cut down. For each ton of electronics destroyed and recycled, 1.65 tons of carbon emissions from burning coal are prevented from entering the atmosphere. Beyond the benefits provided by their everyday services, Shred Spot is proud to have accomplished the following sustainable actions:

• Completion of a facility energy assessment and recommended energy-efficient improvements.
• Commitment to eco-friendly procurement practices, including purchasing products in bulk to reduce packaging waste, and utilizing paper products with post-consumer recycled materials.
• Demonstrating leadership in the business community through participation with local charitable organizations such as the Hunger Resource Network.

The Claim Company of Northbrook, 776 Skokie Blvd – Bronze

Featuring casual American cuisine with burgers and full bar, the Claim Company of Northbrook offers outside dining, indoor dining, carryout as well as off premise catering options. The Claim Company holds a strong belief that community and civic involvement are extremely important, and helped the Village adapt the Green Business certification to restaurants during the pilot phase of the program.

Here are some examples of how they reduce their environmental impact through best practices:

• Installation of low-flow water fixtures to maintain energy and water efficiency.
• Prioritization for reusable cups, plates, utensils, etc., and only providing disposable products upon request for to-go orders.
• Commitment to energy efficiency through an appliance purchasing policy and inclusion of LED lighting and controls.

Granite Construction, 2215 Sanders Rd Ste 400 – Bronze

Granite Construction provides infrastructure solutions that sustain living conditions and improve quality of life. Granite is committed to integrating sustainable practices into their operations nationally to drive accountability for social, environmental, and economic performance. Their Illinois Regional office in Northbrook is dedicated to honoring this commitment by integrating sustainability goals into the local culture and practices. Granite’s following actions contributed to their Northbrook Green Business designation:

• Management partnered with the Village on Earth Day to educate staff about local endangered pollinators and distributed native plant seed packets.
• Diversion of 75% of waste from Illinois landfills through waste initiatives such as a recycling construction debris, single-use water bottle discontinuation, bulk product purchasing, and packaging reuse.
• Engagement of a designated staff team to implement sustainability-related actions.