Bringing Sustainability to Business is the Topic at Tri-Valley Green Drinks

By Hacienda Network Staff Writer

Applying the principles of sustainability to business is the theme at Tri-Valley Green Drinks, an eco-minded gathering that allows local business people to network, socialize, and learn about local green business resources and practices.

Now active in over 600 cities worldwide, Green Drinks was founded in London in 1989 when a few fellows who worked in the environmental field, socializing with a pint after work, ran into some colleagues. A friendly exchange of information took place and they soon started meeting regularly, creating a model that has been replicated hundreds of times all over the world.

"We host a very diverse group of business and industries," says Steve Melgoza of Livermore company Goza Gear and the organizer of Tri-Valley Green Drinks. "(Our members range) from small t-shirt business owners like us to VPs of Engineering, organic farmers, facility managers, construction contractors, educators, scientists and students to new start ups."

Meetings are informal, he says. "We have a round table introduction session for all who attend. This is an opportunity to pass out business cards and marketing materials as well as a chance to talk about your business or ask questions like, 'What makes a green business green?' There is no group to join and no membership dues - it's free networking." Melgoza characterizes the atmosphere as "warm and welcoming, with authentic, open, and casual conversation."

What keeps people coming back, the group's web site notes, are results. "Many (participants) have found employment, made new contacts, shared and developed new ideas, and discovered new partnerships as well as made new friends."

Another benefit to participants is freely-shared information on how their businesses can benefit from adapting sustainable practices. "For example, I often suggest looking into the Bay Area Green Business Program," says Melgoza. "The program offers an extensive list of resources supporting the greening of business. It is a 16-year-old program with a certified membership in Alameda County alone of 550, ranging from home based businesses to giant retailers to various city and government agencies."

The group meets from 5:30 to 7:30 pm on the second Tuesday of every month (excluding holidays) in Livermore at Beeb's Sports Bar & Grill, 915 Club House Drive. For further information, access www.greendrinks.org/CA/Tri-Valley or contact Steve Melgoza at steve@gozagear.com or (925) 371-6732.

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