energy

Aurora, Colorado has been actively pursuing energy efficiency through various programs and initiatives. The city is engaged in improving its energy profile by incentivizing renewable energy sources, including solar installations on residential and commercial buildings. Rebates and tax incentives offered by local utilities have spurred the adoption of energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Aurora has also implemented the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) for new construction, ensuring that new developments adhere to high energy efficiency standards. The push towards smart grid technology has led to better energy management and reduced consumption. Efforts are underway to retrofit municipal buildings with energy-saving technologies, driving down operational costs and reducing the city’s carbon footprint. The Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy program has provided a platform for developing strategic energy plans, fostering community engagement on energy issues. Through energy performance contracting, the city has enabled investments in conservation measures that pay for themselves through future energy savings. Aurora's solar communities are benefitting from community solar gardens, and initiatives for the promotion of electric vehicles include installing more charging stations to encourage clean transportation. Residential energy use is being tempered by education programs that teach citizens how to conserve energy at home effectively.

water

Water efficiency remains a high priority for Aurora, which has developed comprehensive programs to manage this precious resource amid the semi-arid climate of Colorado. The city's water conservation plan includes tiered water billing that incentivizes lower consumption and penalizes excess water usage. Aurora Water’s conservation programs offer rebates for water-efficient appliances and fixtures, supporting residents in reducing their water use. The city encourages xeriscaping, which involves landscaping with native, drought-resistant plants to minimize the need for irrigation. Also, Aurora has invested in the Prairie Waters Project, a water recycling program that captures and purifies creek water to supplement drinking water supplies. Programs such as 'Water-wise Landscape' and 'Audit and Incentives' help residents and businesses audit outdoor water usage and provide suggestions for improvements. Aurora has strict water management regulations, including watering restrictions and schedules to reduce waste. Leak detection and repair is another focus area, with Aurora Water providing resources to help residents identify and fix leaks. Educational outreach is conducted through school programs, workshops, and community events to build a culture of water stewardship. Aurora’s commitment to ensuring a sustainable water future is evident in its strategic investments in infrastructure and public engagement.

transportation

Transportation efficiency in Aurora has seen advancements with the expansion of multimodal transportation options to reduce reliance on personal vehicles and cut greenhouse gas emissions. The Regional Transportation District (RTD) provides an extensive public transit network, including buses and light rail services, that connects Aurora to the greater Denver metropolitan area, facilitating greener travel. The city supports cycling as a viable transport option by continually expanding its network of bicycle lanes and trails, and by offering bike-share programs. The 'RideArrangers' program encourages carpooling and vanpooling, helping to reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road. Commuters in Aurora are incentivized through subsidies and resources to use public transportation or join carpool networks. Aurora's transit-oriented development initiatives are designed to create walkable communities around transit stations to minimize the need for cars. The city has also embraced the use of alternative fuels and electric vehicles (EVs) by increasing the number of public EV charging stations, thereby promoting the transition to cleaner transportation. By integrating 'smart traffic signals' and adopting transportation demand management strategies, Aurora seeks to ease traffic congestion and enhance the overall efficiency of its transportation system. Investment in transportation infrastructure modernization ensures smooth connectivity for businesses and residents alike, solidifying Aurora's commitment to sustainable transportation solutions.

waste

Waste management in Aurora is a critical aspect of the city’s environmental sustainability efforts. The city offers comprehensive recycling programs aimed at reducing landfill waste and encouraging residents to recycle plastics, glass, paper, and cardboard. Special waste disposal events, such as those for electronics and hazardous materials, allow residents to dispose of items responsibly. Aurora's 'Pay-As-You-Throw' program incentivizes residents to produce less waste by charging for garbage services based on the amount of trash they generate. Through partnerships with waste haulers, Aurora is gradually moving towards a more holistic waste diversion strategy. Yard waste collection and composting programs are actively diverting organic waste from the landfill, transforming it into useful compost. The city also runs educational campaigns to increase awareness about proper waste segregation and the benefits of reducing, reusing, and recycling. Businesses in Aurora are encouraged to adopt sustainable waste practices through the 'Business Recycling Program'. A focus on construction and demolition waste diversion has seen the implementation of recycling requirements for building materials on larger projects. The city's long-term waste reduction goals reflect a commitment to creating a cleaner, more sustainable community for future generations.