Identifying and reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a large part of the solution
Steps Cuyahoga County is taking:
The County has completed its own operational “carbon footprint”
documenting our sustainability efforts to date. Then through this
baseline greenhouse gas inventory, an emissions reduction master plan
is in development.
The resulting master plan will undoubtedly include conservation,
preservation, restoration and creation through science, resource
management, sustainability, and stewardship in the areas of:
- Expansion of existing projects
- Energy conservation & efficiency, including clean renewable fuels and vehicle management
- Green and high performance building
- Public health contributions through clean air and water
- Green development, with transportation / working options and utility infrastructure efficiency
- Waste reduction, recycling and recycled content procurement and buying local.
Steps we all can take:
- Change all incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescent & other efficient substitutes
- Change thermostat setting to reduce heating & air conditioning loads – reducing power consumption
- Turn off lights & equipment when not in use.
- Recycle, reuse and buy recycled & recyclables enhancing the environment
- Buy “Energy Star” rated appliance & electronics that reduce power consumption
- Install water saving plumbing fixtures and faucets.
- Invest in renewable energy for you own home.
- Buy local products
- Walk, bicycle, car pool, & use public transportation when ever possible
- Drive a fuel-efficient vehicle
- Support local organizations addressing sustainability issues
- Further sources of information can be found on the links page.