energy

In Knoxville, TN, significant strides have been made to improve energy efficiency. The Knoxville Utilities Board (KUB) has implemented the Knoxville Extreme Energy Makeover (KEEM) project, which aimed at upgrading the energy efficiency of over 1,200 homes. KUB also offers the 'Round It Up' program, which allows customers to support weatherization efforts for families in need. The city has been actively promoting the use of renewable energy sources, and the adoption of solar power has been encouraged through various incentives such as the TVA's Green Power Providers program. The University of Tennessee operates the Office of Sustainability, which focuses on reducing energy consumption across campus buildings. Local businesses are incentivized to upgrade to more energy-efficient technologies through tax credits and rebates. Knoxville has seen a gradual increase in LED streetlight installations, significantly reducing the city's energy consumption for public lighting.

water

Water efficiency in Knoxville is managed by the Knoxville Utility Board (KUB), which maintains the water supply system and promotes conservation efforts. KUB's Century II infrastructure program is involved in continuous upgrades and maintenance of the water system to ensure efficiency and reliability. The utility has implemented an ambitious plan to replace outdated water pipes to reduce leaks and water loss. To encourage conservation, KUB provides tips for detecting leaks and offers free 'Fix a Leak' workshops. They also promote the use of water-efficient fixtures through the 'Watersense' program. Rain barrels and rain gardens are promoted as methods to capture and reuse stormwater, reducing the demand on the water system. KUB also actively tracks and reduces the amount of non-revenue water and strives to maintain water quality above federal and state standards to ensure safe drinking water for all residents.

transportation

Transportation efficiency in Knoxville is being advanced through multiple initiatives. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) operates a network of buses, including free trolley services in the downtown area, which reduces the number of cars on the road and lowers emissions. KAT has been modernizing its fleet with energy-efficient and alternative fuel vehicles. The city supports the Smart Trips program, which encourages the use of sustainable transportation methods, including carpooling, public transit, walking, and biking. Investment in infrastructure improvements has led to the creation of more bike lanes and walking paths, and the promotion of the Pace bike-share program aims to make cycling a more viable option for residents. Knoxville is also involved in the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and has seen an increase in the installation of EV charging stations. The city's Metropolitan Planning Commission is involved in long-term planning for sustainable and efficient transportation systems, taking into account the projected growth of the city.

waste

Waste management in Knoxville has seen improvements through the implementation of comprehensive recycling programs. The city's 'Curbside Recycling' program, known as 'Recycle Right Knoxville', is free and available to all residents within the city limits, encouraging the diversion of recyclables from landfills. The Solid Waste Management Facility processes a wide range of materials, including electronics and hazardous household waste. Knoxville has introduced initiatives like the 'Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day' to safely dispose of materials that could be harmful to the environment. Waste reduction campaigns also promote composting, backyard compost bins, and education on reducing single-use plastics. Businesses and multi-family residential units are encouraged to participate in recycling, and there are measures in place to enhance waste diversion rates. The city conducts periodic waste characterization studies to identify key areas for improvement in waste reduction efforts.