Protecting Our Environment

Dallas understands that doing business in a sustainable way enables an organization to provide its services more efficiently.  For decades, the City of Dallas has demonstrated a commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation in running the city. Numerous initiatives, policies and awards reveal the city’s dedication to improving the quality of life through environmental sustainability.

Environmental Initiatives

  • One of the first major U.S. cities to pass a comprehensive green building standard for both residential and commercial buildings (2009).
  • First U.S. city to implement an ISO 14001 certified environmental management system (2008).
  • 41% of the city’s vehicles are alternative-fueled or hybrids.
  • 40% of the city’s power is renewable energy, primarily wind power. 
  • McCommas Landfill captures methane gas, and an Enhanced Leachate Recirculation system accelerates decomposition extending the life of the landfill.
  • Per capita water demand has decreased 35% from 1998 to 2010
  • Energy Efficiency upgrades in municipal buildings have saved over $5.3 million
  • Residential recycling reached 62% in 2010, increasing waste diversion by 28% to 44,713 tons.

Accolades

  • Top ten purchasers of sustainable electric power (EPA, 2011).
  • Smarter Cities for energy initiatives (National Resources Defense Council, 2010).
  • 10th in number of Energy Star rated buildings in the City (EPA, 2010).
  • Pilot city for the EPA's Sustainable Skylines three-year partnership (2007) evaluating sustainable issues and programs for metro areas, particularly for air quality.

More at GreenDallas.net

Community Sustainability

Bicycle Advocacy & Complete Strees

Citizen input contributed to the professional recommendations for the latest update to the City's bike plan, approved in the Spring of 2011. Citizen support and public policy are creating apolicy guidbook and plans for complete streets all over the city, providing space for pedestrians and cyclists.

Public Transit

Dallas Area Rapid Transit runs buses, light rail and the Trinity Railway Express through Dallas and 12 surrounding cities.  The Green Line's 28 mile addition in 2010 makes Dallas Area Rapid Transit the second largest light rail network in the U.S.

Local Purchasing

The downtown Dallas Farmers Market is the City's largest permanent showcase of local produce and crafts for sale.  Buying local benefits the community economically and environmentally.

Urban Coops & Gardens

Backyard chickens and home gardens reduce the carbon footprint of our food. Chickens are allowed in the city, though roosters are illegal.

Competitive Advantages

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