The Sustainable Janesville Committee (SJC) is launching the Green Business Partner Program, an initiative to recognize Janesville area businesses who participate in recycling. Businesses that have taken positive steps to reduce waste and improve its recycling practices are encouraged to apply annually for recognition as a “Green Business Partner.”  The application process is free, and a window cling will be provided to successful applicants to visually represent the commitment made to responsible waste management and waste reduction strategies. 

History

The SJC was formed in 2008 with a mission to advise the City Administration and City Council on issues related to environmental sustainability. The SJC researches and makes recommendations on sustainability-related policies and city ordinances. The SJC also plays a role in connecting community members with an interest in environmental sustainability, educating the community on sustainability issues, and recognizing community members for their efforts with the annual Sustainable Janesville Awards. The SJC led the City’s effort to become a Wisconsin DNR Green Tier Legacy Community and continues to advance City and community efforts to be good stewards of our finite natural resources.

The new Green Business Partner Program promotes and celebrates sustainability leadership among local businesses by enhancing environmental responsibility, reducing landfill waste, and promoting compliance with state recycling regulations. This seeks to incentivize sustainable business programs and practices, helps residents identify and reward business leaders, and support Janesville's reputation as Wisconsin's Park Place. The state of Wisconsin bans certain materials from being disposed of in the landfill, including:

•  #1 and #2 plastic bottles and jars
• Aluminum, glass, and steel (tin) containers and cans
• Corrugated cardboard
• Recyclable paper including magazines, newspaper, and office paper
• Leaves and yard waste
• Appliances including air conditioners, microwaves, refrigerators, furnaces, washers & dryers, stoves, and water heaters
• Vehicle-related items: lead-acid batteries, tires, waste oils and used oil filters
• Electronics: cell phones, computers, monitors, keyboards, scanners, printers, televisions, fax machines, external hard drives, etc.

The items listed are made up of materials that can either be recycled into new products or contain toxic components that could contaminate our groundwater, air, or soil. For a complete list of items banned from Wisconsin landfills, visit the DNR Bureau of Waste and Materials Management website. 

Apply Now!

All local businesses are eligible to apply at the link here by February 28, 2026. Successful applicants will receive the annual window cling to be displayed at their establishment and will be recognized on the SJC website and on City social media throughout March and be celebrated at the Sustainable Living Fair in April.