Introduction

The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) is a nonprofit that has introduced standardized language and metrics across the globe for sustainability reporting. GRI reports are published to the Web and are submitted there for review and transparent reporting. The Department of Ecology encourages businesses across the state to lead the way in sustainable operations. Ecology is mandated to help businesses prepare pollution prevention plans, set goals, measure their successes and report their progress on a regular basis.

There is a strong sense that in order to be an environmental leader in Washington State, “to walk our talk” so to speak, that we help to lead the way and do what we are asking others to do. By transparently modeling sustainable behavior, we can help other organizations learn from our experiences. GRI is a tool that can be used by any organization in Washington. The completion of the Department of Ecology’s first Global Reporting Initiative report in 2012 represents a crucial step forward in our work. We hope that you find it informative.

Our state has a long history of protecting its environment and quality of life. Governor Dan Evans called a special session of the Legislature to establish the Department of Ecology in 1970. It was the first agency of its kind in the United States, even preceding the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

In establishing a modern environmental agency from many parts, the Legislature declared that "it is a fundamental and inalienable right of the people of the state of Washington to live in a healthful and pleasant environment and to benefit from the proper development and use of its natural resources".

Remarks by Ted Sturdevant, Director

“The Department of Ecology plays an important role in protecting Washington’s quality of life in the 21st century."