When working toward sustainability, it makes sense to think locally. For one Chicago group, that means getting down to the neighborhood level.

Eco-Andersonville, a new initiative from the nonprofit Andersonville Development Corporation, aims to make it easier for small businesses and residents in the Nordic neighborhood to achieve sustainability.

One of the organization's main missions is to help small businesses adopt eco-friendly practices. For example, the group could help business owners find funding and rebates for green remodeling, or establish a buying co-op to allow Andersonville restaurants to replace Styrofoam with biodegradable alternatives at a manageable cost. Eco-Andersonville is also developing a recognition program that will show shoppers how local merchants are doing, green-wise.

"We try to do everything we can to support local, independent businesses," says Jill Siegel, managing director of the Andersonville Development Corporation. And she admits that it's not always easy for small businesses to survive, much less go green. So along with incentives for being environmentally and socially responsible, eco-Andersonville also supports businesses in their long-term planning for the bottom line.

"We're trying to be true to the three legs of sustainability--people, profit and planet,"
Siegel says.

Another goal of eco-Andersonville is to establish sustainability-focused public facilities and amenities. One idea is for a recycling center in the business district with a cardboard baler, which could both facilitate recycling for businesses, and allow the organization to generate funds.

So what can you look forward to seeing in the near future? This spring, the group will select several businesses to participate in free energy audits
with the Smart Energy Design Assistance Center. Then they will help those businesses secure rebates from Chicago utilities so that they can implement the suggested upgrades.

Want ideas and info on helping your own neighborhood be greener? You can start by contacting your alderman, or getting in touch with the Chicago Conservation Corps. Free tonight? Brand new restaurant Big Jones is hosting a benefit party tonight, April 8, to raise funds for eco-Andersonville. Click here for tickets.

Like this article? More to try:

Green Volunteer Opportunities

Recycling With the Resource Center

Green Roofs Keep on Growing

Thoughts on this article? Read and post comments below.