Zero waste is a new planning approach for the 21st century that seeks to redesign the way that resources and materials flow through society. The zero waste idea is both a back-end solution that maximizes recycling and minimizes waste, and … Continue reading →
Gone are the days when composting was regulated to rural areas. Major cities across the U.S. are becoming serious about decreasing the amount of waste in their landfills and incinerators. Some cities, like San Francisco, have gone as far as … Continue reading →
Bayfield, Wis., may be tiny, but the lakeside community of 500 leads the nation in terms of eco-friendly practices and citywide sustainability efforts. “We have worked really hard to be as green as possible,” said Mayor Larry McDonald. “We believe … Continue reading →
Manufacturers, federal government aim high. Manufacturers of medium and large trucks have reportedly wanted the federal government to mandate increased fuel efficiency for years. In August President Obama responded, establishing the first ever federal large- and medium-truck fuel efficiency regulations. … Continue reading →
“Paper or plastic?” Soon the question may become obsolete due to the growing trend of banning plastic bags in cities, states and even countries. Over 70 cities in the U.S. have banned or are planning to ban plastic bags from … Continue reading →
Most local and county governments wrestle with the rising cost of waste disposal, including trying to figure out how best to go about recycling in the most cost-effective manner. But some municipalities have launched successful community-wide recycling programs. Chicago In … Continue reading →
Spray park installations have been identified as highly-desired amenities for all types of recreation environments. They’ve been implemented in municipal parks, community recreation centers, family fun centers, public swimming pools, aquatic centers and water parks. What makes these systems so … Continue reading →
Summertime means hiring seasonal, part-time help while the weather’s nice in the Midwest. Most municipalities budget for that extra help. Michael Hardy, parks and recreation director for the city of Baraboo, Wis., hires 60 to 75 people during the summer … Continue reading →
While take-home police, fire and municipal cars are still the trend, the practice isn’t standard in all municipalities. Major Derek Towle of the Greenfield Police Department in Greenfield, Ind., said there are definite advantages and disadvantages to take-home police vehicles. … Continue reading →
Regional, inter-county cooperation maximizes emergency management funding and resources in the southwest Missouri region. When ice storms or tornadoes threaten the eastern Missouri lowlands, Greene County responds from a central office in the city of Springfield. But that city is … Continue reading →
The first zero-energy, carbon neutral, multifamily community in the U.S. is now open, demonstrating that cutting-edge environmental building technologies are not only possible, but also scalable for mainstream housing production. Located in Issaquah, Wash., Zhome’s 10 townhomes use zero net … Continue reading →
