BY RYAN BELL (COUNTY OF ALAMEDA, CALIFORNIA) AND JON GIRE (NOW WITH CITY OF SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA)    Many jurisdictions aiming for zero-waste operations or energy conservation have realized their buildings’ janitorial staff are critical partners. Here are some suggestions based on our experience working with the janitorial department at Alameda County on how to gain buy-in and support for sustainability efforts. (While we are working with County staff, these suggestions also apply to working with contractors.)

PHX Renews started as a vision of Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton in his first State of the City address in March 2012...