The Greenprint for Akron

Mission Statement: The Greenprint for Akron creates an environmental partnership to fostera sustainable, eco-friendly community through education and leadership.

Vision Statement: The Greenprint for Akron sets a vision for a sustainable community that contributes to climate and environmental protection which will create opportunities for a healthier quality of life and economic growth.

LOCAL ACTION MOVES THE WORLD

As a member of ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability, we are part of an active network of more than 400 local governments in the United States advancing climate protection and sustainability and turning challenges into opportunities. Together we’re providing inspiring leadership, instructive experience and innovative solutions.

Learn more about how local governments are driving climate action and sustainable development at www.icleiusa.org.

Climate Protection Benefits for Local Governments

• Save Taxpayer Dollars
• Build the Local Economy and Create Jobs
• Improve Air Quality and Public Health
• Invest in Long-Term Community Livability
• Connect Cities with National Leaders and Resources
• Inspire Community Engagement and Individual Action
• Create a Legacy of Leadership

Action Areas for Akron’s Eco-Smart Campaign

Action Plans to implement the vision by 2012
(5 years) will be written in the following areas:

Smart Energy & Emissions

Air Quality, Alternative Energy, Energy Efficiency, Green Rooftops, Green Build (LEEDS Certification Program), Energy Star, Advocating for Energy Audits, Employee Incentive Programs for Reducing Energy

Smart Water & Wastewater Management

Water Quality, Water and Wastewater Systems, Methane Recovery for Energy Production, Waste Sludge to Energy Production, Storm Water Pollution Prevention and Water Conservation

Smart Materials & Solid Waste Management

Environmental Purchasing, Commercial and School Recycling, Curbside Recycling, Reducing Consumption of Natural Resources, Composting

Smart Transit

Mass/Rapid Transit, Promotion of Bicycle Lanes/Trails, Green Map, Carpooling, Conversion of Municipal Fleets, Efficient Traffic Control

Smart Development

Neighborhood Revitalization, Brownfield Recapture, Reduce Urban Sprawl, Creating Walkable Urban Neighborhoods, Land Banking, Adaptive Reuse, and Green Job Growth

Smart Green Jobs

Smart Conservation Of Natural Resources

Urban Forestry, Preserving Streams/Watersheds, Preserving Open Spaces, Park Systems

Smart Community Education and Promotion of Progress

Educating Youth, City Staff Training, Greenprint Reporting, Clearinghouse for Climate Change and Community Engagement to Reach Goals.

Akron Milestones

• Recycling asphalt & oil
• Aggressive brownfield development
• Wastewater sludge to energy-biogas project
• Automated curbside recycling increase
• Bikeway plan for more bike-friendly streets
• Canal Park Stadium recycling
• Forest to Furnishings use of logs
• Use of beet juice to melt road ice
• Permeable pavement pilots

Adopt 5 Habits for Climate Change, Start Today!

1. Change 5 incandescent light bulbs to longer lasting compact fluorescent bulbs-use 75% less energy
2. Bring your own re-useable bags with you when shopping-reject plastic bags
3. Avoid buying bottled water and refill your own sports bottle, thermos or mug
4. Unplug all chargers when not in use, power strips and especially appliances that heat & cool.
5. Buy local produce to reduce packaging, transportation costs and use of preservatives.Click here