The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) and the Toronto Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) have formed Partners in Project Green, “North America’s largest eco-business zone.”

Under the project, approximately 12,000 hectares of industrial and commercial area have been set aside in an effort to enhance the current businesses operating within and around the Toronto Pearson International Airport. In addition to improving existing offices, the project is expected to generate additional business leasing in the airport area.

Partners in Project Green began by recognizing that greening business operations has become a key component to success.  As economic purse strings tighten, the costs of doing business rise, and new environmental regulations take effect, investing in environmental technology like energy efficient lighting, recycling waste products from business operations, and more, make sense as ways to reduce costs.

The project also operates on the fundamental philosophy that by working together businesses can achieve more for the environment than they could working apart.  The project is expected to mark the Toronto region as an area flourishing in eco-businesses, green jobs, and implementation of green technology practices.

October 9th was the official kick-off of the project, and ceremonies included words from politicians, John Gerretsen, Ontario Minister of the Environment, Donna Cansfield, Ontario Minister of Natural Resources and project leaders like Lloyd McCoomb of GTAA, and Brian Denney of TRCA. Complete with a view of the stars from the center of the airport, businesses and the public gathered to learn more about the economic advantages of going green and reducing environmental issues associated with operating a business.

The Project Green Eco-Business Zone (the project’s official name) will provide various programs through which businesses can identify ways to operate in a manner that is safer for the environment and makes good business sense. Running a business from a retrofitted green building, for example can reduce its carbon footprint and trim energy costs. Other solutions include creating more and better commuting options for employees, the ability to buy green office supplies at cheaper costs, perform energy audits, create waste reduction plans, install stormwater management bio-swales, make use of natural landscaping, and offer open, vegetated spaces.

More than 250 businesses are taking part in the project alongside supportive local communities.