Hello, my name is Tommy Norris, Executive Director of
GreenPrisons.org, and I am the editor of Corrections.com’s newest blog, Sustainable Corrections. This new blog is the result of a collaboration
between Corrections.com and GreenPrisons.org. GreenPrisons.org is the only source on the
web dedicated exclusively to sustainable products and practices in corrections.
In the coming weeks you will find a series of articles about
what’s happening in corrections relating to sustainable products and
practices. From sophisticated energy
conservation efforts, LEED construction and what it means, to recycling and
composting.
The blog will have three focal points. First and foremost, generating cost savings
through adopting a variety of sustainable practices and the use of more
efficient, sustainable products.
Secondly, we will examine the evolution of training programs designed to
prepare offenders for 21st century “green collar” jobs. Finally, we believe that the adoption of
sustainable practices and products will make corrections a better neighbor and
contribute significantly to an improved environment in the communities where
correctional facilities are present.
This blog and the GreenPrisons.org website are an outgrowth
of the “Clean and Green” committee created by the American Correctional
Association some 18 months ago. Readers
will be asked to suggest topics for that committee and we will keep you
apprised of the actions of the committee.
Unlike other blogs on Corrections.com this one will not have
a single contributor, but rather a series of experts in the field who will
offer their opinions about the products and services utilized by institutions
around the country. You are encouraged
to provide your comments to each of the articles which will be published about
every two weeks. If you would like to
contribute an article it should be 500-1,000 words and address a sustainable
practice, product or service utilized in corrections. You can address your article to me at Tommy@greenprisons.org and I will respond to you directly.
You are also encouraged to visit GreenPrisons.org for an expanded
discussion on sustainability in corrections.
There you will have the opportunity to learn about specific efforts from
agencies in our featured program as well as check out the links to many other
articles focusing on sustainability in corrections.
Join us in the coming weeks to learn how you can save $1,000
per inmate per year by adopting sustainable practices, or the latest in “green”,
environmentally neutral cleaning solutions.
We will explore links between accreditation and sustainability including
the latest standard adopted by the Commission on Accreditation of Corrections
requiring every correctional function to at least examine ways they can develop
more sustainable practices.
There will also be something for vendors as well. Providers of sustainable products and
services will hear first hand from senior agency managers what a vendor must do
to successfully contract with government, and how they can ensure that the
uniqueness of their product is explained in a way that does not compromise the
procurement process.
By visiting GreenPrisons.org
you can also learn how to register
for the National Symposium on Sustainable Corrections to be held in Indianapolis,
June 13-16. In addition to national
speakers, the Symposium will also include a tour of an Indiana correctional
facility to observe a variety of sustainable practices and programs.
Be sure to check back here beginning May 16, for
Correction.com’s newest blog and to learn the latest in sustainable practices
and products in corrections.
Tommy Norris
Executive Director
