Surrounded by a dramatic panorama of mountains and ocean, Vancouver draws nature buffs and outdoor enthusiasts from around the world. In fact, not only the city becoming known internationally as an environmental leader, but Mayor Gregor Robertson has pledged that Vancouver will be the greenest city in the world by 2020. They’re already making a strong start: Vancouver is already Canada’s greenest city and an industry-recognized frontrunner in green building, planning and technology. Drawing 90 percent of its power from renewable sources, Vancouver is a leader in hydroelectric power and is now charting a course to use wind, solar, wave and tidal energy to significantly reduce fossil-fuel use. Perhaps most importantly, residents can freely enjoy the city’s sprawling green space with 200 parks and more than 18 miles of waterfront. On their way to world eco-domination, they’ve reached significant milestones and created environmentally friendly alternatives for nearly every facet of residents’ lifestyles.

Greeted with Green: Sustainability at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) 

Visitors to Vancouver experience the city’s eco-initiatives right on arrival. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) features a number of green building techniques, including solar-powered hot water heating systems that have resulted in energy savings of $110,000 per year. The airport’s Energy Reduction Committee implements further energy-reducing initiatives, such as econo-mode settings on baggage conveyor belts and carbon dioxide sensors to control heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Since it was created in 1999, the committee has saved more than 24 gigawatt hours of electricity. YVR was Canada’s first airport to install a living wall, standing 18 meters high and home to more than 28,000 plants.  Finally, in 2004 the airport introduced a Taxi Incentive Program that licensed 100 hybrid and natural gas-operated taxis to pick up arriving passengers. Since its inception, the program has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 8,422 tonnes every year.

 Stay Green: Green Eco-Leaf Rated Hoteliers

A host of Vancouver hotels have been recognized by iStayGreen’s Green Eco-Leaf Rating  Program and also the Hotel Asscoiation of Canada’s Green Key Rating Program as exemplifying environmental stewardship. Only a few dozen hotels around the world have achieved the top-level Five Green Keys rating, with Vancouver’s contribution including the Fairmont Pacific Rim, Four Seasons Hotel Vancouver, Hyatt Regency Vancouver and The Fairmont Waterfront. In addition, 22 local hotels have been awarded Four Green Keys.

 Eat Green: Ocean Wise and Beyond

Stanley Park’s Vancouver Aquarium

Seafood is a local dining specialty, but not all aquatic dishes are created equally. Pioneered by Stanley Park’s Vancouver Aquarium and innovative chefs across the region, the Ocean Wise initiative supports sustainable fishing practices, ensuring that restaurant seafood has been raised, sourced and supplied in an environmentally sound manner. In addition, many Vancouver restaurants promote the use of fresh, local and seasonal ingredients; in fact, Raincity Grill pioneered the popular 100-Mile Menu movement.

Go Green: Transportation

Vancouver’s commitment to green transportation is exemplified by its growing mass transit system. The original SkyTrain rail line opened in 1985 and, in 2009 – just in time for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games – the Canada Line was added, linking the airport to downtown in a 25-minute trip. The next stage of this eco-minded transit network is the Evergreen Line, scheduled to open in 2016. Alternative modes of eco-transport include one of the world’s largest hybrid taxi fleets, newly expanded bike lanes and an easily walkable downtown core. Car drivers aren’t exempt: the city now requires electric vehicle charging stations for 20 percent of all parking stalls in new condo buildings.

 Learn Green: Eco-Events

Vancouver’s green initiatives extend to community participation, with several events aiming to inspire green discussion and encourage change. Two of the largest include the Projecting Change Film Festival (featuring films that promote discussion about social and environmental issues, with each production followed by a dynamic speaker and panel discussion); and the Ep!c Sustainable Living Expo (Western Canada’s largest lifestyle show for the eco-conscious consumer).

Build Green: Vancouver Architecture

Vancouver boasts an abundance of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-certified buildings – among the highest number per capita in North America. The city is also a leader in the area of policies aimed at promoting energy efficiency in buildings. In 2008, Vancouver set a goal of making all new construction carbon neutral by 2030. As part of this goal, the Green Homes program requires that all new building permit applications for single-family homes meet a specific set of requirements, which will reduce energy consumption by 33 percent. In 2010, Vancouver required all newly rezoned buildings to meet LEED gold standard, the highest green building standard for rezoned buildings in North America. Notable green architecture includes the Olympic and Paralympic Village (certified the most energy efficient neighborhood in the world); the Vancouver Convention Centre (the first in the world to achieve LEED platinum certification) and Grouse Mountain’s Eye of the Wind, the world’s largest commercial wind turbine.

Shop Green: Vancouver’s Green Stores and Brands

Mountain Equipment Co-Op

Vancouver is home to a number of boutiques, grocers and other retailers and designers that produce and sell environmentally friendly wares. A sampling of well-known labels include Ethical Bean (sourcing only fair trade and organic coffee beans, the café was inspired by the owners’ interactions with Guatemalan coffee farmers); Happy Planet (the juice empire connects urban residents with organic farming techniques); John Fluevog (catering to celebrities, locals and visitors, designers produce and sell stylish shoes made of eco-friendly materials); and Mountain Equipment Co-op (designed to last, the company’s active wear is made from organically grown and recycled materials).

 Greenpeace: Made in Vancouver
Greenpeace is known across the globe for exposing environmental problems and brainstorming solutions to ensure a green future – and it was founded in Vancouver. Forty-one years after it began, Greenpeace now operates in more than 40 countries worldwide and has 2.9 million members. Among its many initiatives, the organization has continued its initial aims to protect biodiversity, prevent pollution, end nuclear threats and promote peace, and has been nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize.

Vancouver is an incredibly beautiful city with a very credible drive to become the Greenest City in the World by 2020

The most populous city in Australia is eager to become a world leader in environmental action. Sydney,  Australia has created a city program, “Sustainable Sydney 2030,” that aims to improve living, improve the environment, build a thriving economy, support art and culture, and get people connected within the community and the world. It has big goals and too many to name, but the strong commitment from city leaders and community members has made the 2030 program into a success only five years over. Here are some of the ways Sydney’s 2030 program has already benefited the environment and looks to improve the city’s conditions well before the deadline.

Energy and emissions

One of the biggest priorities of Sustainable Sydney 2030 is reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. The city has set the ambitious goal of reducing its emissions by 70% from its levels in 2006. Its $18 million investment into this objective has put Sydney well on its way to reaching this goal, as it is set to halve its emissions by 2012. The installation of 1,200 solar parking meters has saved 1.4 tons of greenhouse gases per year, and energy-efficient LED street lights will improve energy efficiency by 50 percent. The city already has $12 million set aside for further investment in renewable energy for the next 5 years.

Electricity and infrastructure

At the start of the program, coal-powered electricity was responsible for 80% of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions. To lower this figure, Sydney has implemented a trigeneration energy network so it can create low carbon electricity, heating, and cooling to buildings in the central business district. It has begun installing photovoltaic solar panels on City buildings as well as solar water heating, and it has formed the Sydney Better Buildings Partnership with its major landlords to reduce carbon emissions, energy and water use, and waste in 60% of the city’s commercial office space.

Waste

The population of Sydney creates 40,000 tons of waste each year. Thanks to the 2030 program, all of this waste is now collected and diverted into alternative waste treatment facilities for recycling, where up to 70% of it can be recycled or used for energy generation or high-grade compost. Renewable gases are also collected at these treatment facilities for further use in the city’s new energy systems.

Water conservation and reuse

The 2030 program seeks to reduce the city’s water use by 25% from 2006 levels and provide half of the water supply from a city-wide recycled water network. To date, 49 water harvesting and recycling systems have already been built, and enough water has been saved to fill 142 Olympic swimming pools. According to the city’s research, only 10% of the city’s water of drinking quality is drunk or used for cooking purposes. In light of this, the city moved to reduce other uses of this water supply and distribute from its water recycling network a water supply for non-drinking purposes such as toilets, air conditioning, irrigation, and other purposes.

Green spaces

To make Sydney a more attractive and enjoyable city, its program aims to increase its green space so that it has 24 square meters per resident. It also plans to increase its urban canopy by 50% and plant 20,000 new trees. There have been 30 rainwater tanks installed thus far to provide water for the city’s green spaces, and its plan to use raingardens should reduce pollutants by 50% in waterways while also introducing stormwater harvesting.

Transportation

Widespread public transportation is a major goal in Sydney, and its popularity happens to be growing while transit by car is lessening. Light rail and buses are becoming more widely used as well as car sharing and zero-emissions bicycling and walking. In fact, Sydney is making citywide efforts to encourage bicycling with its goal of 10% of all trips being made by bicycle by 2016.  Apparently it’s working, because the most recent year has shown transportation by bicycle to increase by up to 60% at peak travel hours. Bicycle routes are being upgraded and extended to connect major destinations and areas beyond the city.

Green, Global, and Connected

The city of Sydney set out with a mission and it has become a reality in change for environmental sustainability. There were several goals for this project: stabilizing emissions, reducing use and demands for energy, water, and wasteful resources, ensured energy security, and the ability to cope with rising sea levels and increased flooding. To make this happen, the city leaders began the program and got the community involved. Initial consultation involved more than 12,000 people, major community workshops, public exhibitions, and forums with indigenous communities. The city currently holds 50 public conversations per year and continues consultations with residents and business owners regarding any issues with the objectives. The program has found success because the whole city is not only involved, but they area also willing and motivated to make their city sustainable and successful.

Sydney, Australia is setting a worldwide example for sustainable innovations and environmental awareness. Its program has already found success in its vision to be “Green, Global, and Connected.” It has become green by lessening its impacts on the environment and increasing green spaces and vegetation. It has become global with its growing economy, global knowledge exchange, and its open-minded, global outlook and attitude. It has become connected by getting the people involved, creating a sense of belonging, well-being, and equality, and by making an accessible city that encourages communication between its government and its people. Sydney is at the forefront of sustainability efforts worldwide, and it makes a great place to visit during a lifetime.

Palm Springs, California lies on the western edge of the Coachella Valley, within the Colorado Desert. Located approximately 10 miles southeast of Los Angeles and 140 miles northeast of San Diego, it’s an easy two hour drive by freeway. The permanent year-round Palm Springs population is 45,000, and doubles during the winter season.

The history of Palm Springs is as varied as those who live here and come to visit. From the native Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians to the first pioneers to the early Hollywood stars to the mid-century modernist architects to celebrity mayor, Sonny Bono, to today’s path to sustainability, Palm Springs remains a historical and ecological wonder.

Discover the Natural Wonders of Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a paradise for those who want to explore the naturally stunning environment. The desert resort community is the gateway to state and national parks, and ancient canyons for hiking, rock climbing and off-road adventures.

Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon: National Register of Historic Places

Over 100 miles of hiking trails meander through rocky gorges, crystal clear streams and stunning waterfalls at the Indian Canyons and Tahquitz Canyon, ancestral homes of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.  Fifteen miles long, Palm Canyon located in the Indian Canyons, is considered to be the world’s largest California Fan Palm Oasis and Tahquitz Canyon is famous for its stunning 60-foot seasonal waterfall.

Visitors can explore Cahuilla’s rock art, food preparation areas and house pits throughout the canyons. Go off the beaten path by taking a horseback riding tour of the Indian Canyons and panoramic views of the desert valley.

Mount San Jacinto State Park

From palms to pines, ride the world’s largest rotating tramcar of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to experience a 10-minute breathtaking journey from 2,643 feet from the Valley Station to the Mountain Station at 8,516 feet to access the pristine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Over 50 miles of hiking trails are available and are accessed by exiting the Tram’s Mountain Station.

The Gateway to Joshua Tree National Park

Drive 30-minutes outside of Palm Springs through thousands of wind turbines to arrive to Joshua Tree National Park, a playground of giant rock formations, backcountry trails, and wildlife. From easy to difficult trails, one can explore a stunning desert landscape by foot, mountain bike or horseback. Guided tours are also available.

Off-Road to San Andreas Fault

Several tour companies take visitors out on scenic excursions to learn about the geological wonders of the San Andreas Fault Zone, which is 30-minutes outside of Palm Springs. Maze through box and slot canyons, walk along the gurgling streams and witness unusual sandstone formations.

Staying Green

Over the past four years, Palm Springs has invested more than $200 million dollars into new hotels and property renovations, many of which have implemented green initiatives to help reduce overall daily energy consumption, as well as providing guests with an eco-friendly property.

The Path to Sustainability

In 2007, The City of Palm Springs proposed the first steps on the path to making the Palm Springs a sustainable community. Over the past years, the City has implemented important policies and continues to move towards the goal of reducing overall energy use and green house emissions. In 2011, the city launched and completed several programs in water conservation, urban suitability and mobility, waste reduction, energy efficiency and green resources for local businesses.

In 2012, the City’s Office of Sustainability is working on the following:

• Partnering with the Green Business Bureau to create a online certifying Green Business Program.
• Increase public education about water supply and and desert friendly landscaping programs.
• New trail signage at City trail access points and install community gardens.
• Host a Mayor’s race to Save the Planet in April to Celebrate Earth Day.
• Add more location for electronic water drop off and increase recycling center locations
• Offer rebates for energy-efficient gas appliances and introduce energy efficiency min-grants to low-income residents
• City facilities will undergo retrofits for lighting and systems controls

To learn more about the City’s Path to Sustainability, visit http://www.yoursustainablecity.com/

Green Meetings in Palm Springs

The Palm Springs Convention Center, a SMG-managed facility, is a pilot facility for SMG’s Green I.M.P.A.C.T., a new environmental corporate program designed to provide best practices in water conservation, energy efficiencies, waste diversion and air quality at its 225 facilities including 68 convention centers in North America.

As part of the I.M.P.A.C.T. program, an in-house “Green Team” has been formed to help build the guidelines and best practices in areas of energy reduction, resource management, water consumption, air quality, and food and beverage.

• Since 2005, the convention center has had an overall reduction in energy use of over 50%.
• A “Trash to Treasure” program has been developed for clients and vendors to repurpose and/or recycle non-traditional materials.
• In-house catering partner, Savoury’s, utilizes biodegradable products, locally grown food and donates excess food to local assistance programs.
• Since 2010, the center is a pilot facility for the City’s new composting program and has diverted 33.13 tons of food waste to a local processing plant which then returns the composting to fertilizer for local markets.

To learn more about visiting Palm Springs, California visit http://www.visitpalmsprings.com/

Another resource for Green happenings in Palm Springs is http://palmspringsgreenscene.com/

A special thanks to Hillary Angel who is the Public Relations Manager for the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism for contributing this Guest Post.

With its many golden temples and its thriving culture, Bangkok has become of the most popular tourist spots in Asia. It was realized more than a decade ago, however, that the city was responsible for large carbon emissions and doing more than its fair share to promote global warming. As a result, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration took the initiative to start a city program that would reduce carbon emissions and help the environment. Because of this program, Bangkok has become one of the leading cities in Asia with eco-friendly initiatives and transformative environmental policies.

Bangkok’s Environmental Programs

Amidst the growing concerns of the past decade in regard to global warming, Bangkok observed that its greenhouse gas emissions were among some of the highest in the world. Despite its exemption from the Kyoto Protocol, the leading figures of Thailand decided it was time to make some changes to reduce the capital’s carbon emissions. The resulting program in 2007 was the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Action Plan on Global Warming Mitigation 2007-2012. In this program there were five initiatives:

• Expand mass transit and improve traffic system
• Promote the use of renewable energy
• Improve building electricity consumption efficiency
• Improve solid waste management and wastewater treatment efficiency
• Expand park areas

Included in these initiatives are plans to expand the rail system and bus system, campaign for electricity conservation, increase efficiency in waste management, and plant trees in the metropolitan area and surrounding provincial areas. Estimates in 2007 stated that Bangkok is responsible for about 14.86 million tons of CO2 emissions from electricity, 21.18 million tons from transportation, 1.13 million tons from waste, and 5.58 million tons from other miscellaneous sources. Upon its 2012 deadline, the program aims to reduce the city’s carbon emissions by 15 percent below its business-as-usual projections.

Bangkok’s environmental program had a clear effect on surrounding nations. In 2009, authorities from Bangkok joined with the leaders of three other ASEAN countries and devised a joint program called “Cool ASEAN, Green Capitals.” This program was formed with the goal of promoting proactive communities and people-centered institutions in efforts build greener infrastructure, increase green spaces, create clean water supplies, and promote other environmental initiatives with support from the World Bank.

As part of the city’s program for Global Warming Mitigation, a monthly plan was implemented that encouraged greener daily habits in community members. On the 9^th day of each month, a campaign is initiated in support of a different eco-friendly action. Some of these include turning off electric lights for 15 minutes, using compact fluorescent bulbs, stopping engines while parked, planting trees, using cloth bags instead of plastic, and reducing garbage.

In 2000, Bangkok had only one square-meter per capita of green space. The Urban Greening Project was soon implemented and two communities were given assistance in planting various local fruit trees to both provide shade and bear fruit. Trees planted along a canal were able to better stabilize the banks and prevent soil erosion. The fruits produced were either consumed by families or sold in the local market.

Transportation Improvements in Bangkok

Despite the roads of Bangkok being filled with “chronic” traffic jams, there have been several alternatives provided for transportation that have lessened the number of cars on the city roads. In addition to improving its bus system, Bangkok has an electric city tram system, the underground Bangkok Metro, and the 1,000-passenger Skytrain. This is an elevated rapid transit system that covers 55 kilometers along two lines with 32 stations. It is the most environmentally friendly public transportation system in Bangkok, and it is currently being expanded to provide access to the outlying areas of the city.

In Bangkok’s Rattanakosin, “The Old City,” a program was launched that provides bicycles for free use in the local area and only requires that they be returned by the evening. The historic town has a bike route circuit about 18 kilometers around the area with eight bike stations where visitors can stop and explore. It’s a great way for both tourists and locals to see the sights of Bangkok and avoid polluting the environment.

Building a “Green” Bangkok

These environmental initiatives of Bangkok aren’t just about improving transportation and planting trees. The hospitality industry has taken it upon itself to help the environment by running more eco-friendly businesses to benefit their customers and the earth. Bangkok is one of the world’s leading cities when it comes to green accommodations, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand has established the Green Leaf Certificate as a standard for rating hotels with eco-friendly operations. Establishments awarded this certification have proven commitment to environmental conservation and exhibited regular practices such as recycling, proper waste management, efficient use of energy and water, water management, and purchasing environmentally friendly products. In 2003, 80 hotels throughout the country received this certification. iStayGreen currently has numerous green hotels in Bankok to choose from.

Eco-Friendly Bangkok

Though there is still a long way to go, Bangkok has shown its commitment to follow through with the necessary steps in becoming an eco-friendly city. It has already met its goal of planting 3 million trees, and waste collection services are now above 80 percent. Companies are getting involved to promote renewable energy use like natural gas and biodiesel. Bangkok is leading Thailand and the rest of Southeast Asia in a journey to cleaner living. Progress has been made, and soon the benefits will really pay off.

The growing awareness of global warming has developed over the past decades with massive support for environmental initiatives. Seattle has taken these issues to heart and made the commitment to become the nation’s first carbon neutral city by the year 2030. Every since the 1970s, Seattle has been pursuing “Green” initiatives to lessen its negative effects on the environment. Thanks to its Climate Protection Initiative, the city’s green businesses, programs, and education initiatives can shine in the spotlight of successful for eco-friendly change around the country. Seattle seeks to set an example for others to show that change is possible to limit our effects on the earth.

What’s Climate Neutrality?

Seattle’s efforts in environmental action are based on the goal of climate neutrality. To become climate neutral, the city provides to its population many products, services, and enterprises that operate while having no effect on the earth’s climate. The goal of climate neutrality is gained by either purchasing offsets or reducing emissions of carbon and other greenhouse gases that are harmful to the environment. In making these efforts, Seattle hopes to prevent any changes in weather patterns that could have drastic environmental effects such as increased flooding and erosion, as well as disruption to water management systems and infrastructures.

Seattle’s Climate Protection Initiative

In order to maintain Seattle’s climate, the mayor began the Climate Protection Initiative in February 2005 claiming the city would either meet or surpass the national target of the Kyoto Protocol. To reduce Seattle’s greenhouse gas emissions by 7 percent before 2012, the initiative includes programs to diversify its transportation options, promote clean energy and conservation, and encourage compact communities. The initiative also involves preparation for any climate change that may inevitably occur  such as improving infrastructure, facilities, and services to become adaptable to unforeseen climate phenomena.

Seattle Climate Action Now. As the leading city-wide effort in support of the initiative, Seattle CAN assists individuals, businesses, and organizations, in making eco-smart adjustments to management and methods of operations. It has successfully decreased the city’s water usage despite a population increase of 25 percent since 1975. Seattle CAN has also improved the waste management system, and it is very close to reaching its overall recycling goal of 60 percent by 2012.

Mandate on Food and Yard Waste. Starting in small areas and eventually expanding outward, collective efforts began reforming the waste disposal system with support from single-family households. For this program, each household receives a cart for its food waste. At the end of each week, it is collected and taken to a composting facility where it can be made into soil. Recycling has become a requirement for households and businesses, and those who do not recycle face fines that should dissuade further wasteful habits.

Plastic Bag Initiative. In efforts to reduce waste, Seattle’s City Council approved a fee for using plastic bags while shopping. The fee aims to discourage consumers from using plastic bags that most likely end up in landfills and persuade them to purchase reusable shopping bags. If the fee was implemented and not visibly contributed to environmental efforts, it would be largely criticized. In consideration of this, the fee for each plastic bag is twenty cents, which goes to the Solid Waste Fund to provide for its recycling programs.

Green buildings. To reduce carbon emissions and conserve energy, Seattle supported the establishment of environmentally friendly buildings for businesses and homes for families. Through home energy audits, Seattle is working to provide every home with an Energy Performance Score and advice on how they can be improved concerning energy efficiency and other environmental factors. To make every home-away-from-home eco-friendly, Seattle also has more than 100 hotels that are recognized as eco-friendly. The Washington State Hotel & Lodging Association lends support for environmentally friendly hospitable accommodations through Greening Washington’s Lodging Industry Program. Some of Seattle’s most widely recognized green hotels include the Pan Pacific Seattle nearby the Space Needle, the Grand Hyatt Seattle with 425 modern and fashionable guest rooms, and the Renaissance Seattle Hotel downtown, only minutes away from the best shopping in the city. These hotels are setting the standards for new businesses that aim to provide eco-friendly services and accommodations in green Seattle.

Zero Net Emissions Goal. Seattle City Light is an electric utility that promotes energy efficiency and other conservation efforts in to local businesses, institutions, and residents. It helps customers reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions to benefit the environment while saving money. City Light became the first electric utility in the country to eliminate its greenhouse gas emissions. Along with its promotion of conservation through cost effective methods and using renewable resources, City Light invested in a biofuel program to support cleaner fuel use for local transportation and service vehicles. Seattle’s greenhouse gas emissions have already been decreased by more than 60 percent in comparison to the 1990 levels.

Fuel Reduction Plan. Upon the start of the Fuel Reduction Plan, Seattle began investing in hybrid and electric vehicles to cut fuel consumption and carbon emissions, and it funded research into alternative fuels. New standards were put in place regarding purchases of new vehicles to be more eco-friendly. It set a goal of reducing the fuel consumption of its fleets by 3 percent in 2009, which would be a decrease of 80,000 gallons. The city managed to cut its consumption by 2.7 percent, and it earned the Green Fleet Award granting Seattle certification as an environmentally conscious city.

Building a Green City

With a citywide initiative to be eco-friendly, more than just the big businesses have to make the investment for environmentally safe infrastructure and operations. As a result of the local trend to achieve climate neutrality, small businesses and growing firms alike have made the commitment to become eco-friendly.

Architecture. Environmental Works is a non-profit community design center that establishes sustainable architecture for low-income community groups in Seattle. After beginning in the 1970s, it made its primary goals to improve physical, economic, and social environments for the enjoyment of the population. In 2009, it completed a community center that doubles as a demonstration site for the benefits of green building.

ECOSS. The Environmental Coalition of South Seattle was established in 1994 to promote actions for a healthy environment. It works to provide education, resources, and technical assistance to communities and businesses to raise awareness of environmental initiatives and conditions.

Education. Seattle is an ideal destination for a learning experience about the environmental impacts we have had on earth as humans. Seattle University is the top educational facility on the nation for those interested in environmental and natural sciences. The program features elements that can provide for careers in ecological restoration, natural resource management, urban planning, corporate sustainability, or journalism. The environmental education available in Seattle is suitable for any career in conservation and ecological initiatives.

Green, Clean, and Serene - Eco-Friendly Seattle

From its businesses to its transportation and resident participation, Seattle has become the greenest city in the U.S. Upon the adoption of its Climate Protection Initiative, the city mayor challenged other mayors around the country to make the same move and protect the environment and the people. The U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement was accepted by more than 1,000 mayors in the nation to keep their cities green and better maintained for the environment.

In December 2008, Seattle presented proof of meeting the requirements of the Kyoto Protocol and decreasing its greenhouse gas emissions by its target of 7 percent. Though the city’s population had already grown 16 percent since 1990, these collective efforts at carbon neutrality prove to be most effective.

The move by City Light to begin a widespread energy conservation plan in 2008 predicted that it will save its customers over $310 million in energy bills over a five-year period. Its continuous efforts to keep Seattle running with energy efficient facilities is one of the significant factors of the city’s environmentally friendly recognition of today. Many other businesses are taking initiatives to cater to the environmentally conscious population of Seattle, such as real estate companies and other service providers. Everything from salon services to moving boxes and wedding arrangements can be acquired from eco-friendly businesses. Seattle residents experience green living with every step in their homes and in the community as it accommodates for a fully green lifestyle.