Sustainable Business

With its strong roots in the land, it's no surprise that Sonoma is an environmentally conscious community.  Green businesses are a great fit for Sonoma Valley, where sustainable business practices are actively supported.

In a recent survey conducted by the Chamber of Commerce, more than 90% of Sonoma Valley businesses agreed that "Sonoma Valley is well suited for businesses that are 'green' in their products, practices, or services." Almost 85% agreed that the "Sonoma Valley is well suited as a preferred desination for environmentally-conscious tourists".

Local organizations share ideas and best practices through the Sonoma County Business Environmental Alliance and community members gather each month at Green Drinks to network and learn from each other.

Sonoma Valley is a leader in the implementation of solar technology.  Buildings and facilities that are solar powered range from the historic Vella Cheese factory to wineries to the local wastewater treatment plant.  Sonoma has been recognized by the NorCal Solar Energy Association in consecutive years with "City Solar Awards" for solar energy installations, and the community was recently named a "Solar Champion" by Environment California, which ranked Sonoma 5th in the state for solar power per capita. The Sonoma County Energy Independence Program provides an important financing tool for both commercial and residential property owners looking to make energy efficiency improvements and/or install solar power.

More than 25 Sonoma Valley businesses have achieved local Green Business Recognition, and many of these have gone on to achieve Bay Area Green Business Certification.  Visit the Green Business Programs page to learn more about programs and services that support sustainable business in Sonoma Valley.

The City of Sonoma was recently named a bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists.

A LEED certified office building downtown.