energy

Baltimore has been actively working to improve its energy efficiency through various initiatives and partnerships. The city has embraced renewable energy sources, notably solar power, by implementing solar panel installations on municipal buildings and homes. Baltimore's Energy Initiative offers incentives for energy-efficient upgrades, leading to increased adoption of LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances in residential and commercial sectors. The Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE) Smart Energy Savers Program provides further incentives for energy-saving measures, such as rebates for high-efficiency heating and cooling equipment. The city's commitment to the Paris Climate Accord has also accelerated local efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with a significant focus on building energy efficiency. Through the Baltimore Neighborhood Energy Challenge, citizens are encouraged to reduce their energy use, and energy audits are becoming more commonplace, helping homeowners identify ways to save energy. Additionally, the city is investing in cogeneration plants to improve the efficiency of its energy production, converting waste heat to power municipal operations. Programs like these contribute to Baltimore's goal of reducing energy consumption and transitioning to more sustainable energy practices.

water

Baltimore is focusing on enhancing water efficiency and infrastructure through a series of comprehensive measures. The city's Department of Public Works oversees initiatives to improve water conservation and supply management. Attention has been paid to repairing and upgrading the aging water infrastructure to prevent leaks and water loss, with significant investments dedicated to the rehabilitation of reservoirs and pipelines. Baltimore is also deploying advanced metering infrastructure to provide accurate water usage data and promote conservation among consumers. The city encourages the use of rain barrels and provides credits for stormwater management practices that reduce impervious surfaces, mitigating runoff and improving water quality. Efforts such as the Growing Green Initiative promote the creation of green spaces that absorb rainwater, reduce flooding, and enhance urban livability. Additionally, Baltimore's Watershed Protection Program actively protects the water supply from pollutants and educates the community on water conservation practices. Reclaimed water programs are being explored to expand the use of treated wastewater for non-potable purposes. These comprehensive efforts underscore Baltimore’s dedication to maintaining a sustainable and efficient water system.

transportation

Baltimore's transportation efficiency efforts are geared towards reducing congestion, lowering emissions, and promoting sustainable transit options. The city has been enhancing its public transportation systems, with investments in the Charm City Circulator, a free shuttle service that connects key areas and aims to reduce vehicle use. Additionally, the Maryland Transit Administration continues to upgrade bus services and the MARC train system for better regional connectivity. Baltimore supports alternative transportation through bike-sharing programs and dedicated bike lanes, making cycling a safer and more attractive option for commuters. The city is also expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, including EV charging stations, and implementing incentives like the Maryland Electric Vehicle Tax Credit to encourage residents to switch to cleaner vehicles. The BaltimoreLink system redesign was a significant effort to improve bus service and accessibility throughout the city. Furthermore, the Port of Baltimore plays a vital role in transportation efficiency as a hub for both cargo and cruise ships, with continual enhancements to its facilities to reduce idling and improve the turnover rate of goods. These initiatives reflect Baltimore's commitment to fostering an integrated and environmentally friendly transportation network.

waste

Baltimore's waste efficiency strategies have seen considerable development, focusing on reducing, reusing, and recycling waste to divert it from landfills. The city's Department of Public Works operates a single-stream recycling program to simplify the recycling process for residents, aiming to increase participation rates. The Baltimore Compost Collective encourages composting organics, reducing waste, and providing job training in urban agriculture. Businesses are incentivized to minimize waste through the Baltimore City Recycling Partnership, which offers resources and support for establishing effective waste reduction practices. The Zero Waste Plan envisions a future where waste is a resource to be managed sustainably, and initiatives are in place to rescue and redistribute edible food that would otherwise contribute to waste streams. Waste-to-energy is another facet of Baltimore's strategy, with the BRESCO facility converting solid waste into electrical energy, although it has faced criticism due to pollution concerns. Efforts to improve waste efficiency also involve education campaigns, such as the Less Waste, Better Baltimore program, which aims to inform residents about the environmental benefits of waste reduction and proper disposal methods. Altogether, these efforts represent Baltimore's multi-tiered approach to tackling waste issues.