Several Blair County businesses have learned that sustainability is important to the future of their businesses.

With the assistance of Sustainable Pittsburgh, the Blair County Chamber of Commerce Sustainable Blair County Committee put together a sustainability survey that businesses could complete to determine their strengths and weaknesses. Nine businesses participated.

“We have a desire to raise awareness of sustainability, to help businesses see what they are doing and how they can continue on their path. It is exciting to do this, we are always looking for fresh ideas,” Chris Foster, Sustainable Blair County Committee co-chair told members of the chamber’s breakfast club Thursday at The Casino at Lakemont Park.

Jim Price, Sustainable Pittsburgh’s communities manager, said most people think of the environment when they hear the word sustainability.

“It is not just about the environment, social and economic side. It is where they come together, it is what is good for the community as a whole. How do we make all things work together and provide more opportunities for people?” Price asked. “Sustainable development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

Price said sustainability efforts need to be put into practice.

Sustainable Pittsburgh put into place a number of performance programs such as Sustainable Pittsburgh Restaurants.

“We have over 150 involved in this in the Pittsburgh area, it has been a successful program for us,” Price said.

Sustainable Pittsburgh has also developed a number of professional networks including one for CEOs.

“If they were not involved, the work wouldn’t be as efficient. We have over 36 in the Pittsburgh area involved, some from the large corporations,” Price said.

Price said sustainability is important in attracting and retaining talent.

“If you have a robust sustainability effort, it is a great way to retain talent,” Price said. “Sustainability improves the ability to attract customers, gives you better ability to attract and engage employees, and improves financial performance.”

Sustainable community development is also important.

“You want to attract more people to the region, you need to focus on the young people and young people with kids. They are the ones who will move to a new region. You need to do things to benefit young people; they will be your future economy,” Price said. “If you can be an inviting community for them, that is a good thing. What they want is mobility, low-cost housing, amenities, healthy activities, diversity and jobs nearby.”

The nine businesses that participated in the survey were recognized.

The following businesses received certificates for having achieved Bronze Level Certification: Great Commission Schools, Prime Sirloin Restaurant, Stiffler McGraw & Associates and U.S. Hotel Tavern. The following businesses completed the sustainability survey but have not yet reached a Certification Level: Advantage Resource Group, Keller Engineers, Roaring Spring Blank Book, Roaring Spring Community Library and Veeder-Root Co.

Mirror Staff Writer Walt Frank is at 946-7467.