GLRPPR Sector Resource: Breaking New Ground: Promoting Environmental and Energy Programs in Local Government
Title:
Breaking New Ground: Promoting Environmental and Energy Programs in Local Government
Abstract:
This report presents findings from an International City/County Management Association (ICMA) survey that was sent to over 8,000 local governments across the nation.
The survey asked questions regarding sustainability initiatives that have been undertaken by local governments. Over 2,000 local governments responded to the survey. The survey was developed by ICMA's Center for Sustainable Communities, the Center for Urban Innovation at Arizona State University, the Arizona State University's Global Institute of Sustainability, and the Alliance for Innovation.
In brief, the survey found that a large majority of the localities responding to the survey were at an "early stage" of adopting sustainability initiatives. While over 80% of localities reported initiatives in the area of recycling, transportation, and building energy use, adoption rates were much lower for other sustainability initiatives such as alternative energy generation and workplace alternatives.
In addition to the survey results, the report presents case studies of eight local governments across the nation that are considered leaders in sustainability initiatives. The case studies go beyond the survey results to discuss how each community linked their sustainability initiatives to broader community goals. The report concludes with seven action steps that local governments can take in developing a long-term, integrated approach to environmental, economic, and social sustainability.
URL:
http://www.businessofgovernment.org/sites/default/files/Promoting%20Environmental%20and%20Energy%20Programs%20in%20Local%20Government.pdf
Source:
IBM Center for the Business of Government
Resource Type:
Article/report
Date of Publication:
2011
Associated Sectors:
