GENERAL MOTORS GREEN DEALER PROGRAM

In 2014 GM launched the “Green Dealer” program. In order for a dealership to get certified, a performance assessment has to be completed that GM’s “Green Dealer” support team evaluates. The assessment covers 60 eco-friendly business practices across 10 categories. A dealership must have a high percentage of these practices in place to earn certification. A dealer’s continuous improvement year after year will lead to ongoing annual recognition. Some of the areas a dealer can advance are in energy reduction, renewable energy use, water conservation, recycling, onsite nature habitats and community outreach. Here is a list of other improvements:

• Motion detection lighting controls are used extensively
• High efficient water heater is used to reduce energy cost
• Skylights/Light Tubes/Clearstory Windows are used to make use of natural light 
• HVAC systems are high efficiency to improve efficiency 
• Programmable thermostats are being used to reduce HVAC cost  
• Windows are Low-E to reduce heat gain in showroom 
• Ceiling fans are used to circulate air for employee comfort and reduced energy cost 
• Waste oil heaters are used to reduce fuel cost
• Low flow water fixtures and faucets are used extensively to reduce water usage
• Car wash systems use reclaimed water to reduce water usage
• Rainwater is managed to reduce flow to storm water system 
• Reusable drink containers are used to reduce waste to landfill
• Bulk oil purchase and storage reduces plastic bottle waste
• Air hand dryers are used to reduce the use of paper towels
• Recycle Containers are present throughout the dealership
• Plants in the showroom and office area improve air quality
• An Environmental (green team) works on eco-friendly improvements

The Green Dealer program aligns with GM’s company-wide efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. GM designed the program to encourage dealers to implement green initiatives as part of their operations, create a network for sharing best practices and help other dealers begin or advance their sustainability journey.