News

Mayor Piercy Presents First Business Sustainability Award

Author: City of Eugene
Date: 05/07/2007

Contact: Jan Bohman, Community Relations, 682-5587
Sarita Black, Mayor's Assistant, 682-5465

EUGENE, Ore., May 7, 2007 - "As part of my commitment to making sustainability a primary focus for Eugene, I'm launching a monthly program - Bold Steps Toward Sustainability - to honor a Eugene business that has consciously chosen to follow sustainable practices," said Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy. "I was extremely pleased to present my first Mayor's Sustainability Award to the Slocum Center for Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, which is being built by the Orthopedic Healthcare Northwest. It is truly making every effort to address the triple bottom line: people, planet and profits."

Piercy noted that the new Center on Coburg Road was designed to LEED "silver" certification standards. During construction low-VOC emitting construction materials, paints and adhesive are being used, and PVC is being replaced whenever possible. Some 85 percent of the deteriorating buildings on the site were recycled after demolition. Recycled building materials and certified wood products are being used.

A Green Team reviews and develops sustainable polices and practices for use throughout the organization. When construction signage was put up around the site, one requirement was that it be PVC free. It was a challenge for the vendor, but one that resulted in the vendor using PVC free outdoor signage materials for other clients.

The Slocum Center will reduce electric demand by 33 percent, use mercury-free HVAC and electric systems, reduce water use by 30 percent, and reduce light pollution for dark skies. Bioswales and drought-resistant landscaping will be incorporated throughout the site.

Currently, many staff bike to work. The new facility will include ample and secure bike parking, showers and lockers. The site is also easily accessible by bus, and the company reimburses transit costs.

"Not only is a central city site being redeveloped, but Orthopedics Healthcare Northwest, owner of the Slocum Center, has an enviable record in terms of the its practices regarding its people," Piercy said. Employees have flexibility in their work schedules and can take advantage of education assistance to progress in their chosen healthcare career path. Employees also receive full health insurance, retirement benefits, and are encouraged to volunteer in the community.

"The final bottom line is the one most people think of most often - profits," Piercy continued. "Because their profits are strong, Orthopedic Healthcare Northwest was able to consolidate its operations at the new Slocum Center. That will result in a 36 percent increase in employees (140 to 190) when the new facility opens in the fall of this year. "

"Slocum Center provides an example of how companies can achieve triple bottom line results. I salute them and their employees," Piercy said.

The "Bold Steps Toward Sustainability" Program honors Eugene businesses that make decisions using a triple bottom line: taking extra care in how they treat their people, and the planet, while turning a profit. One business will be highlighted each month. All Eugene businesses are eligible for the award. Nominations can be submitted at any time, and all nominations will be kept on file for future consideration. Nominations are being accepted at www.kugn.com and www.starfm1023.com, or through Jen Bell at jenbellsf@hotmail.com, or Kelly Hoell at kelly.hoell@goodcompany.com.