energy

Berkeley, California, is recognized for its commitment to sustainable energy practices, including significant strides in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting renewable energy. The city has implemented aggressive measures to transition to 100% clean, renewable electricity. Through the East Bay Community Energy (EBCE) program, residents and businesses are automatically enrolled in electricity plans that source a large portion of energy from renewable sources. Berkeley's Building Energy Saving Ordinance requires energy efficiency upgrades upon certain trigger events, encouraging property owners to improve their buildings. The city also promotes solar installations with streamlined permitting and information on financial incentives, such as the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit. Berkeley's Climate Action Plan outlines a long-term strategy to reduce emissions, and various city-led initiatives support energy efficiency in homes and businesses, including the use of smart meters and energy management systems.

water

Berkeley is dedicated to water conservation and has implemented various programs to ensure efficient water use. The city's water is supplied by the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD), which offers rebates and incentives for water-saving appliances and fixtures. Berkeley residents and businesses are encouraged to conserve water through the use of drought-resistant landscaping, rainwater harvesting systems, and greywater systems. The City of Berkeley and EBMUD conduct water efficiency audits and provide free water-saving devices to help identify and reduce water waste. The city has also invested in upgrading its stormwater systems to reduce runoff and improve water quality. A watershed management plan helps protect local creeks and watersheds, and community education on water conservation is a priority. The city's efforts in conserving water also contribute to the preservation of the San Francisco Bay ecosystem.

transportation

Berkeley is focused on enhancing transportation efficiency and reducing carbon emissions from vehicles. The city encourages the use of public transit, cycling, and walking through infrastructural improvements, such as dedicated bike lanes, secure bike parking, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, and improved transit services. Berkeley's goBerkeley program adjusts parking pricing and availability to encourage alternative forms of transportation. Partnerships with bike-share and car-share programs offer residents flexible transportation options, and there is support for electric vehicle (EV) adoption, including the development of an EV charging infrastructure. The city's transportation demand management strategies also involve transit subsidies and incentives for employees to use alternative transport. Berkeley has made commitments to improve public transportation accessibility and connectivity, recognizing the importance of an efficient, sustainable transportation network to the overall quality of life in the city.

waste

Berkeley's waste management initiatives are robust and aim at achieving zero waste. The city has set forth a Zero Waste Goal, targeting the reduction of waste sent to landfills by encouraging recycling, composting, and reusing materials. The city provides comprehensive curbside collection services for recyclables, organics, and landfill materials, and has a plastic-bag ban and a foodware ordinance to limit single-use plastics. The Ecology Center, a local non-profit, runs the city's curbside recycling program and supports waste reduction education. Residents are encouraged to divert waste through community composting programs and by participating in the city's bulky waste pickup service, which diverts items for reuse and recycling. Businesses are required to sort their waste to maximize diversion, and the city supports them with resources and consultations to improve their waste management systems. Berkeley has also invested in a Resource Recovery Park to further enhance material recovery and recycling.