Author: Julie Hauser

At Thermo Fisher Scientific, sustainability is more than a goal. It is part of the company’s commitment to making the world healthier, cleaner and safer. Through practical environmental initiatives and employee engagement, Thermo Fisher Scientific’s north St. Louis County location is turning that commitment into action. 

In 2025, the site participated in the St. Louis Green Business Challenge, earning recognition at the Leader Level for its sustainability efforts. Through the Challenge, team members took a closer look at their environmental impact and identified opportunities to reduce waste, lower emissions and strengthen their sustainability practices. 

One of the first steps was launching a Green Team dedicated to leading environmental initiatives across the site. As part of the Challenge, the team completed a baseline sustainability assessment, which helped identify areas for improvement and establish a roadmap for future progress. 

“Joining the Green Business Challenge has heightened our awareness of how we impact the environment,” said Shana Lawson, EHS Manager for Thermo Fisher Scientific. “Conducting the baseline score was eye opening. We thought we were greener than we actually are. Now we have a pathway to move our company towards the corporate goals of zero waste to landfill and reduction in Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions.”  

Armed with those insights, the Green Team began implementing simple yet impactful changes throughout daily operations. Employees received reusable Nalgene water bottles to encourage the use of water bottle filling stations, while Styrofoam cups were replaced with paper coffee cups in all breakrooms. The site also launched a pilot recycling program for lab pipette tips and boxes and transitioned from individual office trash bins to a centralized waste collection area that includes single-stream recycling. 

These efforts are already making a difference. By tracking and sharing results with company leadership, the Green Team has demonstrated the value of sustainability-focused actions and helped build support for continued environmental improvements. 

The site’s commitment to sustainability has also been recognized beyond the Green Business Challenge. During its ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management System audit, Thermo Fisher Scientific received positive recognition for maintaining native plantings and participating in Project Clear’s Rainwater Bioretention Program. These initiatives help manage stormwater runoff while supporting a healthier environment and improved regional air quality. 

While many of these efforts are relatively new, they reflect values that have long been central to Thermo Fisher Scientific’s culture: innovation, responsibility and continuous improvement. By integrating sustainable practices into everyday operations, the company is creating lasting benefits for its employees, customers and the communities it serves. 

For more information about Thermo Fisher Scientific or to get involved in the St. Louis Green Business Challenge, subscribe to the bi-monthly E-Newsletter or visit stlouisgreenchallenge.com.  For more on how sustainability connects to air quality, visit the Clean Air Partnership’s website, like us on Facebook or follow us on X @gatewaycleanair.

As a global science-based consulting and advisory company, Jacobs is dedicated to delivering resilient, digitally enabled infrastructure solutions that help communities thrive. From its St. Louis-area office in the city’s Cheltenham neighborhood, the company is also committed to making a positive impact locally through employee engagement, environmental stewardship and continuous improvement. In 2025, Jacobs returned to the St. Louis Green Business Challenge as a Leader Level participant after a five-year hiatus, using the Challenge as an opportunity to strengthen sustainability efforts within its office, empower employees to adopt sustainable practices and turn environmental goals into meaningful action both inside and outside the workplace. 

A key accomplishment during the Challenge was the relaunch of the Jacobs Green Team, which is helping foster a culture of sustainability throughout the workplace. The team has focused on identifying opportunities to improve the office environment, engage employees and lay the groundwork for future sustainability initiatives. As part of these efforts, Jacobs launched a Taking Green Home education campaign, encouraging employees to incorporate environmentally conscious practices into their daily lives both at work and at home. 

The organization also took a data-driven approach to sustainability planning by conducting audits of employee commuting habits, office energy use and copy paper consumption. These assessments provided valuable insights into current practices and will help guide future strategies aimed at reducing environmental impacts and increasing operational efficiency. 

Beyond internal initiatives, Jacobs demonstrated its commitment to community engagement and collaboration through innovative programs and partnerships. One standout effort was the establishment of a recurring Tasty Tuesday Food Truck event, which serves employees, neighboring businesses and the surrounding community while highlighting local Green Dining Alliance partners. 

Jacobs also excelled in biodiversity-focused activities. Through seasonal Floral Frolics events, employees have been encouraged to connect with nature and learn about the importance of supporting local ecosystems. Building on this success, the company plans to collaborate with property management to increase the use of native plant species around the facility, helping create healthier habitats for pollinators and other wildlife. 

Another significant initiative was the development of a new recycling program designed to be expanded throughout the building. By creating a scalable approach to waste diversion, Jacobs is helping lay the foundation for broader sustainability efforts that can benefit all building occupants. 

These local efforts reflect Jacobs’ overall commitment to addressing environmental challenges through innovation, collaboration and long-term thinking. As CEO Bob Pragada explains, “Our focus is on our future as a science-based consulting and advisory company delivering resilient, digitally enabled, infrastructure solutions.” 

To learn more about Jacobs or get involved in the St. Louis Green Business Challenge, subscribe to the bi-monthly E-Newsletter or visit stlouisgreenchallenge.com. For more on how sustainability supports better air quality, visit the Clean Air Partnership website, like us on Facebook or follow us on X @gatewaycleanair. 

As students head back to the classroom and St. Louis area families settle into new routines, late summer is the perfect time to refocus on healthy habits, including paying attention to the air we breathe. While school supply lists, sports schedules and after-school activities may be top of mind, air quality remains an important consideration for protecting children’s health and helping everyone enjoy a strong start to the school year. 

Children are among those most vulnerable to air pollution because their lungs are still developing, and they tend to spend more time being active outdoors. That’s why the Clean Air Partnership encourages families and schools to prioritize lung health, especially for children with asthma or other respiratory conditions. 

Fortunately, there are several simple steps families can take to help protect their health while also doing their share for cleaner air across the St. Louis region. 

Check the Daily Air Quality Forecast 

One of the easiest ways to stay informed is by checking the daily air quality forecast. The Clean Air Partnership provides color-coded forecasts based on the Air Quality Index (AQI), helping residents understand current air quality conditions and whether extra precautions may be needed. When air quality reaches unhealthy levels, children, older adults and those with existing lung conditions may need to reduce prolonged outdoor activity. 

Individuals can also sign up for EnviroFlash alerts through the Clean Air Partnership website to receive timely air quality notifications via email or text. 

Build Cleaner Commutes Into Your School Routine 

Returning to school often means more cars on the road and increased traffic around pick-up and drop-off times. Since transportation remains one of the largest contributors to ozone-forming emissions, small transportation choices can make a meaningful difference. Consider: 

• Carpooling with neighbors or classmates 
• Walking or biking when possible
• Using public transportation 
• Combining errands into a single trip 
• Avoiding unnecessary vehicle idling in school zones 

These simple actions help reduce emissions while supporting cleaner air for everyone. 

Support Healthy Lungs at Home 

As schedules become busier, maintaining healthy habits is crucial. Encourage children to stay hydrated, especially during warm late-summer days, and be mindful of symptoms such as coughing, wheezing or unusual shortness of breath during outdoor activities. Families with children who have asthma should ensure medications and action plans are readily available as the school year begins. 

For additional tips on protecting lung health and managing asthma symptoms, visit the American Lung Association’s website at Lung.org. 

Small Actions Add Up 

The good news is that cleaner air is something we can all help support. Whether it’s choosing a cleaner commute, conserving energy at home, avoiding excessive vehicle idling or simply staying informed about local air quality conditions, every action contributes to a healthier community. 

As summer gives way to fall, make air quality awareness part of your family’s back-to-school routine. By staying informed and taking a few simple steps, we can help protect children’s health, support cleaner air and ensure everyone has an opportunity to breathe a little easier this school year. 

To learn more about the link between sustainability and air quality, explore our website, like us on Facebook or follow us on X @gatewaycleanair.  

 

Commerce Bank is a regional super-community bank, committed to understanding customers’ needs, listening closely and providing tailored solutions. Its tagline — “Ask. Listen. Solve.” — reflects not only its approach to customer service, but also its leadership as a Leader Level participant in the 2025 St. Louis Green Business Challenge.

Sustainability is a key part of Commerce Bank’s approach to environmental stewardship, and the company achieved several meaningful accomplishments in 2025. In May, Commerce Bank hosted an e-recycling event at its Olive Boulevard location, collecting 1,780 pounds of electronics. Earlier in the year, the Green Team partnered with St. Louis Green Business Challenge resource advisor Jean Ponzi to host a webinar on ecological landscaping and Homegrown National Park, followed by a Green Team-led Eco-Expert Trivia event in July to engage employees in sustainability topics.

During the 2025 Challenge, Commerce Bank was also recognized for several innovative facility improvements. At its Clayton building, the bank reduced surface area in its parking garage, decreasing water runoff by 40% while increasing green space by 371%. The Facilities Team also identified and replaced 142 failed microinverters in its solar array, restoring full energy production capacity. Across its St. Louis and Kansas City footprint, Commerce Bank maintains solar panels on 19 buildings, generating more than 741,000 kilowatt-hours of clean, renewable energy in 2024.

In addition, renovations to the fifth and sixth floors of the bank’s 8000 Forsyth building are nearing completion and will feature a biophilic design. Incorporating elements such as wood panels, plants and expansive interior glass, the space is designed to bring natural elements indoors and enhance the workplace environment.

“The Green Business Challenge has provided us with valuable opportunities to learn each year from the programs offered to members, where companies and organizations working across the St. Louis area share their sustainability initiatives and perspectives,” said Ron Daugherty, AVP Senior Manager, Regional Facilities for Commerce Bank. “These insights and resources inspire ideas that help Commerce Bank develop events to educate our employees about environmental stewardship. Additionally, the information gained through the Challenge supports our decision-making process, ensuring that we carefully consider environmental impacts as we operate our facilities.”

Commerce Bank’s efforts extend beyond recognition in the St. Louis Green Business Challenge. Through facility upgrades, renewable energy investments and employee engagement, the company is helping reduce environmental impact and support improved air quality across the region—demonstrating how sustainable business practices can benefit both communities and the environment.

For more information about Commerce Bank or to get involved in the St. Louis Green Business Challenge, subscribe to the bi-monthly E-Newsletter or visit stlouisgreenchallenge.com.  For more on how sustainability supports better air quality, visit the Clean Air Partnership website, like us on Facebook or follow us on X @gatewaycleanair.

Representatives of the St. Clair County Transit District (SCCTD) recently joined local officials, stakeholders and nearly 100 cyclists to celebrate the grand opening of a new $6 million, 4.5-mile extension of the MetroBikeLink Trail. This milestone marks the completion of the first of three parts of the MetroLink Expansion Project to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport, with associated roadway improvements opening soon and the MetroLink extension anticipated to begin service in late summer.

For the St. Louis region, projects like this do more than expand transportation options—they also support cleaner air and healthier communities. By making it easier for residents to bike instead of drive, trails like MetroBikeLink help reduce vehicle emissions, a leading contributor to poor air quality, especially during the hot summer months.

The new trail segment runs parallel to the MetroLink alignment from the existing bike path at Shiloh-Scott Transit Center to near MidAmerica St. Louis Airport. It features scenic views, rolling inclines, three bridges, no stops and passes through Silver Creek Wetlands, home to native wildlife. The trail is ideal for cyclists looking to build speed and endurance.

Biking on trails like this is also an easy way to reduce emissions. Choosing to bike—even for part of a commute or recreational trip—helps cut down on ozone-forming pollution, which contributes to unhealthy air quality days in the region.

During the grand opening ceremony, attendees heard remarks from project partners and local leaders about the continued growth of the MetroBikeLink System and its role in enhancing connectivity and quality of life. Following the ribbon cutting, guests were invited to take part in an inaugural bike ride and explore the new trail segment.

Access to safe biking infrastructure not only improves mobility—it encourages more people to choose active transportation. Biking and walking produce zero emissions, making them effective ways to help improve air quality while supporting personal health.

Construction on the trail began in 2023 and was completed in June 2026. The project was designed through a combined effort between engineering firms WSP, TWM and EFK Moen, with elements constructed under four different contracts. SCCTD funded $5.5 million of the project, with an additional $500,000 in grants from the Metro East Park and Recreation District and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

The MetroBikeLink Trail is the spine of a 40-mile system of interconnecting trails throughout St. Clair County. It runs adjacent to the MetroLink alignment for more than 18 miles and connects to seven Metro Transit Centers in five communities, offering seamless integration with MetroLink, MetroBus and microtransit options like the SCCTD Flyer.

“The MetroBikeLink System seamlessly links residents to our world-class transit system and expands opportunities for multimodal travel across St. Clair County,” said Ken Sharkey, managing director of SCCTD. “This momentum will only continue as we look ahead to the 5-mile MetroLink extension to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport opening in the coming months.”

To learn more about SCCTD’s MetroBikeLink System, visit SCCTD.org/MetroBikeLink.

In recognition of National Dump the Pump Day, Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) offered free monthly transit passes in partnership with Metro Transit and the St. Clair County Transit District – valued at $78 – during a 24-hour registration period. The response was overwhelming. Nearly 1,000 St. Louisans signed up to give transit a try with 250 monthly passes quickly claimed on a first-come, first-served basis.  

Recognizing the incredible demand and opportunity to introduce more people to transit, CMT expanded the effort to ensure no eligible registrant was left out by distributing one-day passes to all others.  

This initiative is giving hundreds upon hundreds of new transit riders the opportunity to experience firsthand how convenient, reliable and cost-effective public transportation can be. Whether commuting to work, running errands or exploring the region, MetroLink and MetroBus helps riders save money on gas and parking, avoid traffic and reduce vehicle wear and tear. By encouraging more people to shift away from single-occupancy vehicles, the effort also plays an important role in improving air quality across the bi-state region by reducing emissions and taking cars off area roads.  

“The overwhelming response reinforces a simple truth: when people are given the chance to try transit, they embrace it,” stated Kimberly Cella, CEO of CMT. “We are creating new riders, building momentum and showcasing how accessible transit can be for everyday trips across the St. Louis region—all while helping reduce the number of vehicles on the road and contributing to cleaner, healthier air for our communities.”  

To learn more, visit www.cmt-stl.org. 

Anders CPA is a St. Louis-based firm offering advisory, audit and assurance, and tax services to businesses of all sizes, helping clients stay focused on what they do best while navigating complex financial and operational challenges. 

Rooted in its mission to help others achieve their highest potential and its commitment to giving back, Anders brings that same mindset to sustainability. The firm’s participation in the 2025 St. Louis Green Business Challenge reflects its focus on making a meaningful impact, both within its organization and across the region. Their guiding philosophy, “Delivering the Power to Dream Big,” extends beyond business goals to include building a stronger, healthier community. 

As a first-time Challenge participant, Anders quickly made an impact through efforts that combined education, collaboration and action. The firm’s sustainability initiatives have helped raise awareness, encourage responsible practices and strengthen partnerships with organizations committed to environmental progress across the St. Louis area. 

In 2025, Anders reached several key milestones in advancing its sustainability efforts. The firm launched its inaugural Green Team to lead initiatives and serve as ambassadors across various departments, helping embed environmentally conscious practices throughout the organization. Team members were invited to get involved through the Green Business Challenge, fostering a culture of shared responsibility and engagement. 

Anders also implemented practical changes to reduce its environmental footprint, including upgrading water filling stations and providing every employee with a reusable tumbler to reduce single-use bottles and cups. Furthermore, the firm reviewed office supply purchasing to identify and transition to more sustainable alternatives, reinforcing its commitment to thoughtful resource management. 

Additional efforts during the Challenge included partnering with building management to conduct a sustainability audit, identifying opportunities for continued improvement and minimizing waste by donating or recycling outdated materials. Notably, Anders recycled old books in bulk through a local full-service single stream recycling service, Always Green Recycling, ensuring items were diverted from landfills while supporting responsible disposal practices across the region. 

“In our first year in the Green Business Challenge, we’re taking our first steps: learning, experimenting and discovering where we can make the most impact,” said Ellen Moro, marketing specialist for Anders CPA. “It’s been an inspiring start, and we’re committed to continuing this momentum as we grow our sustainability efforts.” 

Anders’s growing list of sustainability initiatives reflects a deeper commitment to community impact. From launching its Green Team to implementing everyday changes that reduce waste, the firm is demonstrating how businesses can play an active role in protecting both people and the environment. 

For more information about Anders CPA or to get involved in the St. Louis Green Business Challenge, subscribe to the bi-monthly E-Newsletter or visit stlouisgreenchallenge.com.  For more on how sustainability connects to air quality, visit the Clean Air Partnership website, like us on Facebook or follow us on X @gatewaycleanair. 

The Fourth of July is a time to gather, celebrate and enjoy the summer, but it’s also one of the most challenging days of the year for air quality. Between fireworks, grilling and increased travel, pollution levels often spike, making it harder for everyone—especially children, older adults and those with lung conditions—to breathe easy. 

The good news? With a few simple choices, you can still enjoy the holiday while helping protect the air we all share. 

Why air quality matters on the Fourth 

Fireworks may be a beloved tradition, but they release a mix of harmful pollutants, including fine particles and gases like sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide. These tiny particles can travel deep into the lungs, irritating airways and triggering asthma symptoms or other breathing issues.  

In fact, air pollution levels can rise significantly during Independence Day celebrations, by as much as 42% on average, according to a study from the American Lung Association. That spike can linger into the next day, particularly on hot, still nights when pollutants get trapped near the ground.  

Fourth of July also falls during peak ozone season in the St. Louis region, when high temperatures and vehicle emissions and fuel sources combine to form ground-level ozone. This is another pollutant that can cause coughing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing.  

Simple ways to celebrate more cleanly 

Small choices can make a big difference in reducing pollution and protecting lung health. Consider these air-friendly tips as you plan your holiday: 

• Skip personal fireworks
  Instead of setting off your own, attend a local, professional display. Community shows reduce the number of individual fireworks lighting up neighborhoods, helping lower overall emissions.  

• Explore cleaner alternatives
  Swap fireworks for glow sticks, LED lights or even drone and laser shows. These still create a festive atmosphere, without the smoke. 

• Be smart about grilling
  Grilling is another contributor to summer air pollution. Use propane or electric grills instead of charcoal, or delay grilling if an ozone action alert is in effect.  

• Drive less, breathe better
  Combine trips, carpool, bike or walk to gatherings when possible. Fewer vehicles on the road means fewer emissions contributing to ozone levels.  

• Cut back on idling
  Whether you’re waiting in line or picking up guests, turn your engine off. Reducing idling is one of the simplest ways to cut unnecessary pollution.  

• Reduce waste at your gathering
  Choose reusable or compostable party supplies and plan meals carefully to avoid food waste, keeping your celebration as sustainable as possible. 

Protect your health while celebrating 

If you notice smoky conditions or an elevated air quality forecast, take extra precautions. Staying indoors, limiting strenuous outdoor activity and checking daily air quality updates can help you make safer choices, especially for those with asthma or existing respiratory conditions.  

Make it a cleaner celebration 

Every action—big or small—adds up. This Fourth of July, celebrate not just independence, but a commitment to cleaner air for everyone.  

To learn more about the link between sustainability and air quality, explore our website, like us on Facebook or follow us on X at @gatewaycleanair. 

Hundreds of miles of trails on both sides of the river connect to transit stops, making it easy—and seamless—to explore the region using a combination of bus, train and trails. Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) is therefore partnering with St. Clair County Transit District, Great Rivers Greenway and Madison County Transit to encourage residents to “Mix Up How You Move” this summer. Through Aug. 31, area residents are encouraged to visit MixUpHowYouMove.com to register for a FREE Metro Transit Day Pass (valued at $5 and good for unlimited rides on MetroLink and MetroBus on the day of their choosing), and to get information about the interconnecting trail systems in St. Louis, St. Clair and Madison counties with direct access to transit. 

Beyond offering a fun and flexible way to get around, this initiative also supports cleaner air across the St. Louis region. By choosing transit, biking or walking instead of driving for even a portion of daily trips, residents can help reduce vehicle emissions that contribute to ground-level ozone and poor air quality, especially during the warmer summer months. 

“With trails and transit so well connected throughout the region, there’s never been a better time to get out and explore,” said Kimberly Cella, CEO of CMT. “This summerlong initiative makes it simple, affordable and fun for residents to leave the car behind and mix up how they move. Our hope is if St. Louisans try it for fun and see the benefits, they may be willing to try for more trips, including work.” 

Great Rivers Greenway has 140 miles of greenways across the St. Louis region, including the St. Vincent, Brickline and River des Peres greenways, which connect to the UMSL North, Rock Road, Wellston, Grand Cortex and Shrewsbury-Lansdowne I-44 Transit Centers. St. Clair County Transit District’s MetroBikeLink System consists of more than 39 miles of interconnecting trails and bike paths in St. Clair County, Ill. The main artery of the MetroBikeLink System is a trail running adjacent to the MetroLink alignment. It begins at the Shiloh-Scott Transit Center and extends 14 miles, connecting the College, Belleville, Swansea, Memorial Hospital and Fairview Heights Transit Centers. A seventh station will soon be added, as a 4.3-mile trail nears completion as part of the MetroLink expansion to MidAmerica St. Louis Airport. Madison County Transit has 138 miles of scenic interconnected trails in Madison County, Ill., connected to the Madison County Transit fixed-route bus service. 

“There are so many great ways to get around the St. Louis region, from greenways and trails to public transit, and we’re excited to encourage community members to get outside and try a new way of getting to their favorite destinations,” said Claire Mueller, communications manager for Great Rivers Greenway. 

Visit MixUpHowYouMove.com through August 31 to register for a FREE Metro Transit Day Pass and gain access to trail maps.

In celebration of National Historic Preservation Month, the Clean Air Partnership is delighted to shine a spotlight on the Missouri Historical Society this May. Serving the St. Louis region, the Missouri Historical Society provides spaces across its three locations—the Missouri History Museum, Soldiers Memorial Military Museum and Library and Research Center—where visitors can explore and learn more about Missouri and St. Louis history. As a St. Louis Green Business Challenge Leader, the organization has made significant sustainability efforts that positively impact the community and region.

“The Green Business Challenge provides an essential, annual prompt for Missouri Historical Society to conduct a holistic assessment of our organization’s sustainability efforts and identify ways to continue to move forward,” said Molly Corley, Sustainability Coordinator at the Missouri Historical Society. “Through learning, sharing and celebrating our achievements across this experience, we feel energized to continue our work.”

As part of its 2025 Green Business Challenge sustainability initiatives, the Missouri Historical Society planted more than 350 native plants in its courtyards and South Entrance. The organization also pruned courtyard trees to increase sunlight to garden beds, reduce deadwood and improve building clearance, supported by grants from Spire and the Missouri Department of Conservation. Additionally, they installed plant identification and interpretive signage and developed an activity to encourage greater use of the museum’s green spaces.

Another exciting milestone included recertifying the Missouri History Museum and the Library and Research Center to LEED v4.1 O+M Gold Level. The organization also achieved notable energy efficiency improvements by installing upgraded chillers at the Library and Research Center. These upgrades help reduce overall energy consumption and associated emissions, contributing to improved regional air quality and a healthier environment.

Internally, the Missouri Historical Society created engaging opportunities for staff and volunteers to participate in sustainability efforts. They hosted a two-day clothing swap to support textile recycling, swapping and local donations, allowing participants to reduce waste while also gaining new items. During the Challenge year, the organization also facilitated electronics recycling for upper galleries and staff departments.

Additional innovations included developing an internal protocol for reporting and tracking bird strike incidents on site, helping identify high-risk windows and inform prevention measures. The organization also encouraged recycling, reusing and donating items such as batteries, binders, filing cabinets, museum-grade frames, steel support poles and office furniture.

For more information about the Missouri Historical Society and how your organization can get involved in the St. Louis Green Business Challenge, subscribe to the Challenge’s bi-monthly E-newsletter or visit stlouisgreenchallenge.com. To learn more about the link between sustainability and air quality, explore the Clean Air Partnership’s website, like us on Facebook or follow us on X @gatewaycleanair.