energy

Loveland, CO, has made significant strides in energy efficiency by adopting a mix of renewable energy sources and implementing energy-saving initiatives. The city's electric utility, Loveland Water and Power (LWP), offers a GreenSwitch program that allows customers to purchase blocks of renewable energy. Additionally, LWP provides a variety of energy efficiency rebate programs for both residential and commercial customers, encouraging upgrades to more efficient appliances and systems. The city also focuses on solar power, with several community solar gardens and incentives for private solar installations through net metering. Moreover, the municipal buildings are increasingly integrating energy-efficient technologies and practices designed to lower consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Loveland's commitment to the Platte River Power Authority's goal of achieving a 100% non-carbon energy mix by 2030 also highlights the city's dedication to sustainable energy practices.

water

Water conservation is a pivotal aspect of Loveland's environmental efforts. The city operates a comprehensive water conservation program, offering rebates for water-efficient appliances and fixtures to promote reductions in residential and commercial water usage. Loveland's raw water portfolio includes several water sources, ensuring reliability and quality. Xeriscaping, or using drought-resistant plants and landscaping techniques, is encouraged through educational resources and incentive programs for residents who replace water-intensive lawns with water-wise alternatives. Loveland Water and Power conducts free water audits to help customers identify ways to save water and reduce utility bills. The city's tiered rate structure incentivizes lower water consumption, with higher usage resulting in progressively higher rates. Loveland also invests in infrastructure to reduce water loss, such as updating aging pipelines and implementing advanced metering infrastructure to quickly detect leaks.

transportation

Transportation efficiency in Loveland, CO, is addressed through a multi-modal approach that emphasizes connectivity and accessibility. The city supports the expansion of public transit options, including the COLT (City of Loveland Transit) system which provides local bus services and is working towards integrating electric buses into its fleet. Loveland is also part of the regional VanGo vanpool service, which offers shared commuting options. The city's bicycle and pedestrian plan promotes active transportation and aims to create a network of bike lanes, paths, and trails that enhance safety and mobility for non-vehicle users. Moreover, Loveland has implemented traffic signal optimization and roundabouts for improved traffic flow and reduced emissions. Incentives for carpooling and telecommuting are promoted among businesses to decrease the number of single-occupancy vehicle trips. Additionally, infrastructure improvements and smart growth policies are designed to support transit-oriented development, reducing the reliance on personal vehicles.

waste

Loveland, CO, exhibits a strong commitment to waste reduction and recycling. The city operates a robust curbside recycling program, which accepts a wide variety of materials, and has recently updated their guidelines to simplify the recycling process for residents. The Loveland Recycling Center provides a drop-off location for items that are not collected curbside, including electronics and certain types of hazardous household waste. The city's 'Pay as You Throw' program incentivizes residents to produce less trash and recycle more by charging for garbage collection based on the volume of waste. Yard waste is collected seasonally and composted locally. Additionally, Loveland's construction and demolition waste program aims at diverting a significant percentage of materials away from the landfill. Educational initiatives and community events focus on promoting waste reduction strategies and encouraging sustainable behaviors among citizens and businesses.