energy

New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, has adopted various measures to enhance energy efficiency in both residential and commercial sectors. The municipality encourages the use of LED lighting, resulting in significant energy savings and reduced electricity costs for its residents. Energy Star-rated appliances are promoted through rebate programs, encouraging homeowners to invest in energy-efficient products. Local businesses have been incentivized to adopt renewable energy sources, with solar panel installations becoming increasingly common. The community participates in statewide energy efficiency programs, which offer tools and resources for energy audits and sustainable practices. The local government has retrofitted municipal buildings with high-efficiency HVAC systems, cutting down on energy consumption. Residents are educated about the importance of proper insulation and weatherization to minimize heat loss during the cold seasons. The town has also implemented demand-response programs in collaboration with utility companies to reduce peak energy loads. Public awareness campaigns on energy conservation are frequent and emphasize the financial and environmental benefits of reduced energy use. The community is also exploring the feasibility of microgrid systems to enhance energy reliability and support distributed energy resources.

water

Water conservation and efficiency are key priorities in New Cumberland, and the town has made strides in sustainable water management. The local water infrastructure has been updated with leak detection systems to minimize water loss through the distribution network. Low-flow fixtures are promoted among residents through rebate programs for toilets, showerheads, and faucets, leading to reduced water consumption. Rain barrel distribution and rain garden initiatives encourage homeowners to collect and utilize rainwater for non-potable uses like gardening. The wastewater treatment facility employs advanced technologies to ensure efficient operation and the protection of local waterways from contamination. Smart watering practices for landscaping and public green spaces are encouraged, and drought-tolerant native plant species are planted to reduce irrigation needs. The public is educated on water conservation techniques and the impact of water-efficient practices through workshops and outreach events. Water quality monitoring is conducted regularly, and the results are publicly available to maintain transparency and community trust. The town also collaborates with regional water conservation groups to share best practices and improve regional water-use efficiency.

transportation

New Cumberland focuses on developing transportation efficiency by encouraging alternative modes of transport and improving infrastructure. Bicycle lanes and shared-use paths have been expanded to promote cycling as a viable means of transportation. The town supports a local carpooling initiative to reduce the number of vehicles on the road and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Public transportation services are maintained to be reliable and efficient, with ongoing efforts to improve route coverage and frequency. An electric vehicle (EV) charging station has been installed in a central location to facilitate the transition to EVs among residents. The town's walkability has been enhanced through the maintenance of sidewalks and the development of pedestrian-friendly zones, making it safer and more inviting for residents to walk for short trips. Traffic flow improvements and smart traffic signals are utilized to reduce congestion and idle time, thus improving air quality and fuel efficiency. The local government is exploring options to introduce a bike-share program, providing residents and visitors with an alternative and environmentally friendly transportation option. Investments in public transit and sustainable transportation infrastructure are part of the community's long-term plan to reduce its carbon footprint and improve overall transportation efficiency.

waste

Waste management in New Cumberland actively promotes recycling and composting to reduce landfill reliance. The town has implemented single-stream recycling, making it easier for residents to recycle a wide range of materials. A curbside collection program effectively increases participation and the volume of materials recycled. The local government runs educational programs that emphasize the importance of waste segregation and the negative impacts of improper disposal. Household hazardous waste disposal events are organized regularly to ensure toxic materials such as paint, solvents, and batteries are handled responsibly. An electronics recycling program addresses the growing issue of e-waste, and the community is encouraged to dispose of electronics at designated facilities. Yard waste collection services promote the conversion of organic waste into compost, which is then made available to residents and local parks. Businesses are encouraged to minimize waste through waste audits and by adopting sustainable packaging options. The effectiveness of these programs is assessed through waste stream analyses, and strategies are adapted accordingly. The town has a goal to increase its waste diversion rate and is exploring the introduction of a food waste collection program for both residential and commercial sectors.