From managing employees and tracking finances to keeping daily operations moving, small business owners have a lot on their minds. It's no surprise that finding the time to figure out what steps they need to take to meet environmental regulations can prove challenging.
“We often get asked: how do I know if I need a permit?” says Emily Ohde, environmental specialist with the MPCA’s Small Business Environmental Assistance Program. “It was clear we had an opportunity to share this in a way that was easier for businesses to approach and understand.”
Ohde and her colleagues have created a series of short, online trainings to answer businesses’ most commonly asked questions about environmental regulations. The trainings take the form of interactive, easy-to-follow slideshows that viewers can pause or rewind at any time. Business owners can review them at their own speed and on their own time, no registration required.
The trainings can benefit both newly launched companies that may be tackling permitting requirements for the first time, and existing businesses that might have new staff that don’t understand the process. For other businesses, the resources can serve as guidance on how to demonstrate their compliance with regulations.
“Business owners understand that there are regulations in place to balance their business operations with the need to keep our communities and the environment safe and clean,” she says. “Our goal is to support them in understanding and meeting these requirements, especially if they are approaching the subject for the first time.”
View the trainings now
Environmental permitting for small business: This 12-minute overview of permitting is a starting point for small businesses. It highlights a range of compliance concepts related to air, water, waste, and storage tanks. Learn which activities and equipment may require a permit, as well as how to apply for, comply with, and terminate permits.
Do I need an air permit?: This training helps small businesses understand which air permit their facility may need. The training covers the various types of air pollutants, common activities that release pollutants, types of air permits for smaller businesses, emission calculations, and state and federal air regulations.
Here to help
Need additional help figuring out the permitting process or other regulatory requirements specific to your business?
The Small Business Environmental Assistance Program can help you comply with environmental rules, reduce wastes and emissions, and reduce regulatory obligations. The program is designed to help independently owned and operated small businesses with fewer than 100 employees that are not major sources of waste or emissions.
Request free and confidential assistance for your business.
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