Since hiring its first sustainability program manager in 2005, the city of Cleveland has worked to improve itself across the sustainable-spectrum. And the Rustbelt city has done a heck of a job, taking a giant leap up SustainLane's charts this year. Even if improved reporting is largely responsible for the gain, that's a sign Cleveland is taking its ecological health seriously. And speaking of health, Clevelanders should have ample opportunity to eat right, with 225 community gardens and 25 for-profit farms within the city limits... and more on the way, thanks to a new zoning classification for the Urban Garden District. Perhaps one of the most exciting developments is the city's participation in an effort to start an offshore wind farm on Lake Erie. If this project flies, it'll help Cleveland's energy utility to source 25 percent of its power from renewable sources by 2020. An even simpler step Cleveland could take? Offer residents curbside recycling.
(Photo by Spatulated)
Mati S. says:
Cleveland offered curbside recycling citywide a few years ago and is piloting a sophisticated new recycling system in the EcoVillage area using designated cans and lifter trucks, accepting all standard recyclables including plastics 1-7.
Also moving Cleveland forward is the Bus Rapid Transit system being constructed on Euclid Avenue using compressed natural gas buses, more bike trails, the City Wheels carsharing company, the 11-year-old Cleveland EcoVillage project (which is building affordable homes that will heat and cool for around $500 per year, after successfully developing 20 market-rate high-efficiency townhomes), and City Fresh, a pay-as-you-go community-supported agriculture program designed to meet the needs of low-income families who cannot afford $500 CSA shares. Permaculture activists have created numerous asphalt gardens, and the city is reviewing its backyard chicken ordinance.
Patrick S. says:
Cleveland's Mayor Jackson hosted the Sustainable Cleveland 2019 Summit in August 2009 to create an action plan for building a green economy and sustainable future for Cleveland. Nearly 700 people from across northeast Ohio and the world came together for a three-day summit focused on Building an Economic Engine to Empower a Green City on a Blue Lake. This effort is focused on supporting business growth, protecting the environment and creating opportunities for individuals to prosper.
We are already in the planning phase of the 2010 event.
Daniel B. says:
http://www.gcbl.org/blog/marc-lefkowitz/58-green-infrastructure-projects-move-clevelands-reimagine-study-reality