Launch a Sustainability Program

Over the past decade, an increasing number of local governments have designated staff and established offices dedicated to pursuing greater sustainability in energy, transportation, water and land use, and waste reduction and management. By assigning staff time and resources to these important areas, sustainability and climate offices empower local leaders to achieve tangible policies and programs aimed at improving energy performance and other sustainability indicators. With the support of the mayor or city manager, establishing sustainability as a function of local government also shows a real commitment to improving the economic, social equity, and environmental circumstances of the community and its people. In larger communities, where the local government includes numerous agencies that have their own stake in advancing sustainability in their operations and as a benefit for the community, sustainability officers could be designated in those primary agencies, such as agencies that deal with emergency preparedness, transportation, facilities, waste and sanitation, water services, public space, energy use and efficiency. The resources below can help you get started.