Green to save the Earth, green to save some green!”

**Ballantyne BNI Member, Patrice Hawkins is GREEN! ***

PRESS RELEASE: For Immediate Release


DOING WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE: Local Business Can Now Go Green

Charlotte, NC – For small businesses in Charlotte, this is a make-it or break-it time. The economy has (we hope) hit bottom and will swing up, but when, and how soon are questions no one can answer.

While some business owners are just hanging on—afraid to make any changes, for fear of losing the business they have, there is one business owner in Charlotte taking the opportunity to stand apart—and do the right thing!

Interior Designer, Patrice Hawkins, Owner of Interiors by Decorating Den in Charlotte has taken this opportunity to achieve the designation as an Accredited Professional with GREEN-Leaders at the Sustainable Furniture Council ("SFC").

“Eco-friendly design becomes more important each day!” says Patrice, “I really feel that the time is now to get the tools and resources so that my company can provide the best home design trends to my clients, and offer a ‘green’ alternative—especially when people are extra concerned about how and where they spend their money: Green to save the Earth, green to save some green!”

Patrice Hawkins has completed the rigorous course, including an exam which was developed in conjunction with the Sustainable Furnishings Council, (www.sustainablefurnishings.org), the #1 green organization in home furnishings with board members including ranking staff of World Wildlife Fund, Rainforest Alliance, and one of the co-founders of USGBC/LEED. This is the most comprehensive training program available, providing manufacturers, reps, retailers and designers with the knowledge and credentials to differentiate themselves as experts in sustainability. The course focuses on environmental issues related to home furnishings, including the factual basis for climate change, indoor air quality, toxic waste, and water conservation.

“I have always thought of myself as progressive and environmentally conscious—now I have the credentials to prove it!” – Patrice Hawkins, CID.

For more information on Interiors by decorating den, go to: www.decdens.com/phawkins.

###




Ballantyne Business Network BNI meets every Thursday at 7:15 am in Ballantyne, North Carolina.