Dharm Makwana

A dozen local businesses have signed on to a new City of Vancouver program designed to evaluate carbon emissions, Mayor Gregor Robertson said.

The Corporate Climate Leaders Program, unveiled Wednesday at GLOBE 2010, sees the city split $75,000 in operating costs with Vancouver-based Climate Smart, EcoTrust Canada and Metro Vancouver in a bid to help businesses go green.

"This is evaluating carbon emissions using the expert knowledge and resources we have to develop a game plan to reduce their emissions or to find ways in which the company can benefit from the low carbon economy," Mayor Robertson said.

Mayor Robertson added as more companies come on board there could be potential for new green jobs.

"This should create jobs by virtue of companies finding more efficiencies and more business opportunity with technology," he said.

The announcement came as part of a larger pitch to attract investors attending the green business summit in Vancouver until Friday.

Municipalities are best positioned to take advantage of burgeoning markets for clean and green products and services, Mayor Robertson said.

“While we see national governments frustratingly stagnant and stalled on climate change and taking action, cities are in gear. We have the ability to implement policy and are natural partners for entrepreneurs and the business community.”