In 2008, the Chamber convened a diverse group of members to explore their interest in fostering Haywood County as “green”  with practices of sustainability that positively impact it’s social, environmental and economic health. It subsequently established the Green Initiative Committee.

The Committee agreed that it’s primary desire for Haywood County and the surrounding region to become a “green” place to live, do business, and visit. Furthermore, it adopted five sustainability goals directed at fulfilling this desire: Air Quality and Energy Efficiency, Water Quality and Quantity, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, Education and Awareness and Sustainability Leadership.

The Committee then collaborated with the community to develop sustainability strategies and practices for each of these goals. Businesses and organizations wishing to participate in the Green Initiative must be a member in good standing of the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce. Next, they created a sustainability plan of action by selecting practices to implement and measurable outcomes. Thus, they individually and collectively further sustainability and the development of the region as “green”.

The first group of pilot businesses including the following: Haywood Community College,Champion Supply Company,Stewart Builders, WNC Interior D-Zines,Gateway Club,Animal Hospital of Waynesville,Haywood Builders Supply,Keller Williams,Osondu Booksellers,Lake Junaluska Assembly,Haywood County Chamber of Commerce have received their “Going Green” recognition. T