TIGARD, Ore.–– Unitus Community Credit Union has launched a new Environmental and Sustainability Action Plan.
The credit union said the initiative will serve as a key component of one of Unitus’ Shared Values: Caring for People and Planet. Development of the Environmental and Sustainability Action Plan began in 2022.
Unitus Community CU said the Action Plan consists of five key pillars:
- Environmentally Responsible Business Practices
- Waste Reduction
- Energy and Resource Conservation
- Member and Community Support
- Crisis Preparedness
‘Vision for Future’
“Unitus is setting a vision for the future through this initiative with the focus on how our actions today will impact the world tomorrow,” the credit union said.
Unitus said it has partnered with the “United in Sustainability Credit Union Network,” which is committed to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The 17 SDGs are part of the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, today and in the future. The credit union said the partnership will allow it to collaborate with other credit unions and organizations to develop best practice innovations and multiply the impact.
The credit union is also working closely with Inclusiv’s Center for Resiliency and Clean Energy.
‘Evaluations’ Continue
“Implementing this work at the local level will have far reaching implications for our global community,” explained Steven Stapp, president and CEO of Unitus Community Credit Union. “As we build the foundation of our sustainability efforts, we’re evaluating all the ways we have already acted to effect change while planning future strategies to protect our environment, our collective wellbeing, and the dwindling natural resources around the world.”
Unitus CU said that while it has a new initiative underway, it has already started its sustainability work. Next week it will open the Unitus Business Center (UBC)-Tigard, which will serve as a corporate model for sustainability efforts. The facility includes five acres of protected wetlands which will offset the credit union’s environmental footprint, UCCU said.
‘Limited Waste’
“Once full construction is completed, Unitus will apply for LEED certification,” the credit union stated. “UBC-Tigard has been constructed with recycled materials and furniture, includes living plants in all workspaces to promote clean air, and has limited waste by repurposing materials during demolition.”
Unitus further stated is has already begun several other environmentally responsible business practices, including:
- Eliminating paper
- Supplying facilities with reusable dishes
- Offering remote work flexibility
- Implementing a ride-share program
- Providing funds for employee transit
- Using energy-efficient lighting and other infrastructure
- Offering financial products to help employees and members purchase energy-efficient vehicles, bikes, and home enhancements.
Unitus became the first Credit Union to receive Gold Certification from the City of Portland’s Sustainability at Work program in 2018.
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