Austin's Commitment to Sustainable Energy

Austin, Texas is the fastest growing city in the country. It is also one of the sunniest cities in America averaging about 228 sunny days each year.

Austin has had a long standing commitment to sustainable energy use. In 2007 the city adopted Resolution 20070215-023 to become “the leading city in the nation in the effort to reduce the negative impacts of global warming”. And in 2011, Austin became the largest local government in the United States to subscribe to 100% renewable energy to power all city-owned buildings and facilities.

The city has also committed itself to 55% overall renewable energy production by 2025. One way that residents can help the city reach this goal is by generating their own renewable energy through solar power. Doing so reduces the amount of pollution and toxic waste in the city and also helps to grow the local economy by keeping jobs in the city.

Here are some small steps you can take to help the environment:

• Turn off lights and unplug devices.

• Keep your tires properly inflated. If your tire pressure is low your car has to work harder and burn more gas.

• Use public transportation, bike, or walk. The fewer vehicles there are on the road, the less pollution that is generated.

• Use reusable water bottles instead of plastic ones.

• Recycle paper, plastic, and glass.

• Use cold water for laundry and always do it in full loads. This will decrease the amount of water and energy used to wash your clothes.

• Replace your lightbulbs with LEDs, they use 90% less energy and last 10 to 25 times longer.

• Replace your air conditioning system if it’s more than 10 years old. Newer models use up to 40% less energy and you can get rebates from Austin Energy to help you save money.

• Opt for plants native to Texas instead of grass. They require less water since they have already adapted to the local climate.

• Adjust your thermostat to 78 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer and 67 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter. Remember to turn your AC or heat when you’re not home.

Encourage your family and friends to take these steps with you. Together, we can do our part to promote sustainable practices in Austin.

Photo Credit: copaustin.com