So I thought it would be cool to have a thread about city-wide sustainable commitments. I know there are definitely some cities out there that are pushing hard to get sustainable design incorporated into government buildings, as well as promote private practices to jump on the bandwagon as well.
Looking at a city as a whole gives an interesting perspective on sustainable design, and has the opportunity to make some serious changes that independent building practices cannot do alone.
I’ll start with my city of Philadelphia to get things rolling.
Philadelphia was one of the “Large Cities” that participated in the “Large Cities Climate Leadership Group and Clinton Climate Initiative,” as well as the “U.S. Mayors’ climate Protection Agreement.” As part of these groups, Philadelphia has agreed “to meet or beat the targets recommended for the US under the Kyoto Treaty.”
Recently, our good Mayor, Mr. John F. Street recently passed a “Local Action Plan for Climate Change.” The 30 page document outlines ways in which the city will promote sustainable practices. It details ways that many different divisions of the city will be incorporated, including Buildings, Transportation, Industry and Waste, as well as Greening and Open Spaces.
Some of the more noteworthy requirements include –
LEED silver certification on “all new construction and major renovation
projects,” and the use of EnergyStar qualified products in these buildings
Purchasing of wind energy to meet 5% of electricity needs, with
evaluation of the feasibility of installing solar systems on City-owned
facilities
Reduction of vehicle fuel consumption from both city and non-city
vehicles by 5% from 2006 levels by 2010 (hopefully by bettering public
transportation systems)
Increase the city’s recycling rate from 6% to 10% by 2010
Maintain a 15% tree canopy for the city
Establish an “Office of Sustainability and Environment” to head and
monitor the sustainability efforts of the city.
Although it is certainly not the most forward looking city plan around, it will definitely do something to promote sustainability in a city which has since had not the best reputation for city health and environmental practices.
So what innovative practices are getting set up in YOUR city?
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