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Bonneville Environmental Foundation

Founded in 1998, the Bonneville Environmental Foundation has been instrumental in the development and growth of the voluntary market for environmental services.  BEF closed the first renewable energy certificate sale in 2000 – a market with a current estimated value of between $136 million and $236 million.

Seeking to address the issue of deteriorating fresh water supplies in the U.S., BEF launched the Water Restoration Certificate Program in 2009.  Originally positioned as a consumer-oriented program, Pam worked with the leadership team to adjust messaging, positioning and communications strategy to focus on CSR decision makers.  This approach enabled BEF to capitalize on the growing interest among corporate sustainability managers to demonstrate commitment to both energy and water conservation.

Early coverage results included a front-page story in The Oregonian.  Brewers, in particular, registered a high interest level due to the significant amount of fresh water required for beer making.  Montana’s Big Sky Brewing was the first to sign on as a WRC customer – outreach via traditional and social media channels generated interest among other brewers.  Within six months, more than eight brewers including Widmer Brothers, signed on as WRC customers.  Subsequent buzz factored into BEF’s then-Chief Innovation Officer, Rob Harmon, invitation to present at TEDx Seattle.