energy

Des Moines, IA, has made significant strides in improving energy efficiency in recent years. The city has implemented a range of initiatives to reduce energy consumption and promote renewable energy sources. Among these efforts, the MidAmerican Energy Company has played a pivotal role, offering various residential and commercial energy efficiency programs. These programs include incentives for high-efficiency appliances, lighting, and heating and cooling systems. The city has also seen substantial investments in wind and solar power generation, positioning Iowa as a leading state in wind energy production. The municipal government has supported the transition to cleaner energy through various policies and partnerships aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Public buildings and new developments are being designed with energy conservation in mind, featuring advancements in building materials and smart energy systems. The Energy & Water Use Benchmarking Program encourages large building owners to track their energy and water usage, promoting transparency and efficiency improvements. Additionally, Des Moines has several LEED-certified buildings, indicating a strong emphasis on sustainable construction and design.

water

Water efficiency in Des Moines is given serious attention by city authorities and the local water utility. The municipal water utility, Des Moines Water Works, is committed to safeguarding the water supply while promoting water conservation. The utility offers a variety of programs, including rebates for water-efficient appliances and fixtures, and supports rainwater harvesting initiatives. The city is actively engaged in upgrading its water infrastructure to reduce leakage and ensure the sustainability of water resources. In recent years, the utility has invested in state-of-the-art monitoring systems to manage water usage effectively. There are educational campaigns aimed at residents and businesses to encourage mindful water usage practices, which include adherence to outdoor irrigation schedules to conserve water during peak demand periods. The utility also works to protect the local watersheds by mitigating pollution and ensuring the natural purification of water resources. The implementation of advanced water treatment technologies ensures that the city maintains high-quality water standards for its residents.

transportation

Des Moines has been working towards improving transportation efficiency through various initiatives. The city has been expanding and modernizing its public transit system, DART, which includes efforts to implement a bus rapid transit (BRT) system and add more fuel-efficient buses to the fleet. The DART Forward 2035 Plan serves as a blueprint for developing a multi-modal transportation network that meets the needs of a growing population. Incentives for using public transportation, such as reduced fares for low-income residents and partnerships with local businesses, have been put in place to encourage ridership. Additionally, Des Moines has been encouraging alternative modes of transportation by enhancing the city's bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, including establishing more bike lanes and pedestrian paths. The establishment of car-sharing programs and the promotion of electric vehicle (EV) adoption is evidenced by the installation of EV charging stations throughout the city. These efforts not only improve transportation efficiency but also aim to reduce traffic congestion and the environmental impact of vehicular emissions.

waste

In terms of waste management, Des Moines continues to develop and enhance its waste reduction and recycling programs. The city has deployed a comprehensive curbside recycling program, complemented by yard waste collection and various drop-off programs for hazardous materials and electronic waste. The emphasis on recycling is aimed at diverting as much waste from the landfill as possible. Businesses and residents are encouraged to participate in the Curb It! program, which simplifies recycling with single-stream collection systems. Special incentives and educational outreach programs have been instituted to increase recycling rates and reduce the contamination of recyclable materials. Furthermore, the Des Moines Public Works Department has been working with local organizations to promote composting and waste-to-energy projects. A noteworthy initiative is the Metro Waste Authority's Environmental Management System (EMS), designed to integrate sustainable practices into waste management services. The city's long-term waste management plan also includes strategies for minimizing the production of waste at the source through community involvement and policy reform.