energy

Myrtle Beach, with its commitment to sustainability, has been adopting various energy-efficient measures. The city has been integrating LED street lighting, which significantly reduces energy consumption and maintenance costs. Solar panel installations have become increasingly common, both in residential and commercial sectors, incentivized by state tax credits. Energy efficiency rebate programs are encouraging homeowners to upgrade to more efficient appliances and HVAC systems. The region's utility companies also offer green power programs, allowing consumers to purchase electricity sourced from renewable energy. Myrtle Beach businesses are actively participating in programs like Energy Star to improve energy management in commercial buildings. The city’s commitment is also evident in new construction, with a growing number of buildings adhering to LEED certification standards, ensuring that new infrastructure is designed with energy conservation in mind.

water

Myrtle Beach has implemented various water conservation measures to ensure a sustainable water supply. The city has invested in modernizing its water infrastructure to minimize leaks and water loss. There are rebate programs for water-efficient appliances and fixtures, which have been widely promoted to homeowners. Rain barrel sales and rain garden initiatives encourage residents to capture and reuse rainwater, reducing the demand on the municipal water system. Strict regulations on landscape irrigation, including the use of drought-resistant plants and smart irrigation technologies, have been established to optimize water usage. Educational outreach programs aim to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation. Myrtle Beach also works on protecting its waterways from pollution through stormwater management practices and has enacted measures to protect the coastal waters that are crucial for the local ecology and tourism.

transportation

Myrtle Beach has taken steps to improve transportation efficiency and reduce traffic congestion. The city has enhanced its public transit system, Coast RTA, offering residents and tourists reliable and eco-friendly transportation options. Bike-sharing programs and the installation of bike lanes encourage alternative transportation, promoting health and reducing vehicle emissions. The airport has adopted environmentally friendly practices, including the use of electric shuttle buses. Ride-sharing services are encouraged, and the city has implemented carpool parking incentives in busy areas to decrease the number of vehicles on the road. Traffic flow improvements, such as synchronized traffic lights, have been implemented to reduce idle times and fuel consumption. Additionally, Myrtle Beach has incorporated electric vehicle charging stations to support the growing number of electric vehicles, aligning with a national trend towards cleaner, emission-free transportation.

waste

Waste management in Myrtle Beach is focused on reducing landfill use through comprehensive recycling programs and waste reduction strategies. Single-stream recycling has made it easier for residents to recycle a wide range of materials, boosting participation rates. The city encourages composting by offering compost bins and educational resources on how to turn organic waste into valuable soil amendments. Local ordinances support the reduction of single-use plastics, a significant source of pollution, by promoting reusable bag usage among shoppers. Electronic waste is handled with care; special collection events have been organized to prevent harmful substances from electronics from contaminating the environment. Businesses are incentivized to minimize waste through a recognition program that highlights their efforts in sustainability. A city-wide campaign educates residents on proper recycling practices to reduce contamination and increase the effectiveness of recycling efforts.