The Green Communities Program is a voluntary certification program for jurisdictions in the 10-county Atlanta Region to encourage local governments to become more sustainable. ARC developed the program to assist local governments in reducing their overall environmental impact. Local governments earn points in 10 categories by implementing specific policies and practices that contribute to overall sustainability. The categories are:

Green Communities set an example by conserving energy, investing in renewable energy, conserving water, conserving fuel, reducing waste and protecting and restoring the community’s natural resources.

Measures are worth 5 or 10 points, depending on their difficulty and overall impact. Three levels of certification are awarded:

• Bronze: 175 – 229 points
• Silver: 230 – 279 points
• Gold: 280 – 329 points
• Platinum: 330 – 435 points  

Applications for Green Communities Certification in 2017 are due May 25, 2017.

Green Communities Vision and Goals

An Atlanta Region Green Community is a community that is leading the way to sustainable living. ARC’s Green Communities Program is designed to encourage local governments to demonstrate leadership on environmental sustainability. Certified Green Communities set an example by conserving energy, investing in renewable energy, conserving water, conserving fuel, reducing waste and protecting and restoring the community’s natural resources.

• To promote measures that encourage local governments to work towards reducing the environmental footprint of the government through its policies, practices, buildings and fleets
• To promote measures that assist local governments in encouraging their community to reduce its environmental impact
• To provide assistance in public education and outreach on sustainability

Benefits of Green Community Certification

Green Community certification:

• Fosters civic pride
• Creates a positive image of a place to live or conduct business
• Sets an example for businesses and organizations seeking to reduce their environmental impact.
• Leads to greater quality of life

Green Communities Application Process

Applications will be accepted beginning January 9, 2017 through May 25, 2017. Jurisdictions interested in pursuing Green Communities certification should download the following materials to learn more about the certification review process and schedule:

• Green Communities Application (PDF) 
• Green Communities Manual (PDF), containing procedures for applying for the program, a description of each measure and the supporting documentation required.
• Checklist of Measures for Certification (Excel) 
• Suggested Steps for Getting Started (PDF) 

Though not required, it is highly recommended that interested local governments contact ARC's Natural Resources Division to learn more about the certification process at least 6 months prior to submitting their application.​​

Application processing timeline:

1. Applications due by 5 PM on May 25, 2017 via electronic submission or mail.
2. Applications reviewed by ARC staff June through August
3. Site visits take place September through October
4. Advisory Review Team reviews applications in October
5. Certified Green Communities announced in January

For more information, contact ARC’s Natural Resources Division.