NetZero Tree and Lawn Care: Greening the Landscape Industry
Transforming the Green Landscape: NetZero Tree and Lawn Care's Sustainability Journey
In an industry traditionally dominated by gas-powered equipment and high emissions, NetZero Tree and Lawn Care stands out as a pioneering force in Ann Arbor's green business community. Their participation in the Ann Arbor Green Business Challenge (GBC) showcases how even trade-based companies can successfully implement sustainable practices without sacrificing business performance.
Breaking New Ground in a Traditional Industry
When NetZero Tree and Lawn Care joined the Green Business Challenge, they weren't simply seeking certification. They were looking to embed sustainability into their company's DNA. Currently the only trade-based business participating in the challenge, they've taken on the responsibility of demonstrating that environmentally responsible practices can thrive in sectors traditionally dependent on fossil fuels.
"Being the only trade-based company in GBC, we can show that in a gas-dominated trade such as tree care and landscaping, effective emissions reduction methods can happen without significantly impacting the bottom line," shares Gordon Smith, founder of NetZero Tree and Lawn Care.
Strategic Benefits Beyond Certification
For this growing company, the GBC has provided more than environmental credentials—it's offered a framework for sustainable business development. The challenge's scoring matrix has given NetZero valuable tools to analyze their operations and implement more efficient data tracking methods.
"The value of participating in GBC allowed us as a company to look at our processes and procedures to see where our operational focus needed to shift to maintain our path as a green business," explains Smith. "We are a newer company and being able to participate in GBC has allowed us to look at our strategic plan to ensure our growth stays in line with being a green business."
This strategic integration of sustainability principles is proving particularly valuable as the company scales. "As we add more facilities, equipment and personnel, our implementation will be easier because of this experience," Smith notes.
Building Community Connections
Another significant benefit of participation has been the opportunity to connect with like-minded businesses. The GBC has facilitated valuable networking opportunities with other organizations that share NetZero's vision for environmental stewardship, creating a community of practice around sustainability in Ann Arbor.
Expert Support Creating Lasting Impact
The partnership with GBC's consulting team has proven transformative for NetZero. The company praises the custom spreadsheets constructed for them, which integrate GBC requirements with their strategic planning process. This practical tool ensures sustainability remains at the forefront of both daily operations and long-term business development.
"Working with Paul and Colin has been amazing!" the company shares. "The write-ups they did are giving us a real edge with our prospective customers and communicating with the community about the importance of our mission."
Beyond consultation, the GBC team has gone above and beyond by securing additional funding—a challenging task that would have been difficult for NetZero to accomplish independently.
A Model for Industry Transformation
NetZero Tree and Lawn Care demonstrates that environmental responsibility and business success can go hand-in-hand, even in traditionally carbon-intensive industries. Their experience with the Ann Arbor Green Business Challenge provides a compelling blueprint for other trade-based businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining profitability.
Interested in learning more about NetZero Tree & Lawn Care's sustainable approach? Visit their website today. For businesses looking to follow their lead and join the Green Business Challenge, click here to sign up today!
