energy

Ossining, NY has been actively working towards improving energy efficiency within the community. The town has invested in LED street lighting to reduce energy consumption for public lighting. Many homes and businesses have adopted solar energy solutions, taking advantage of state incentives such as the NY-Sun Incentive Program, which provides financial benefits for solar installations. The community supports energy audits for homeowners, promoting energy conservation measures and helping residents to lower their utility bills. Ossining has also encouraged the development of green buildings by adopting energy-efficient building codes. The town has participated in community choice aggregation programs to purchase renewable energy in bulk, translating to lower costs and greener energy for residents. Furthermore, several grant programs are available for residents and businesses to implement energy-saving upgrades. Electrification of municipal vehicles is underway, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Initiatives like Energy Improvement Corporation's Energize NY Finance PACE financing further help fund energy efficiency and renewable energy projects for commercial and non-profit property owners.

water

Ossining's water efficiency efforts focus on conservation and sustainable management of local water resources. The town has upgraded its water treatment facilities to enhance the efficiency of water use and reduce waste. There is an emphasis on repairing and replacing old water infrastructure to prevent leaks and conserve water supplies. Water-efficient landscaping and native plantings are promoted to reduce the need for irrigation. Residents are encouraged to install low-flow fixtures and appliances through incentive programs, which decrease water consumption. Rain barrels are sold at subsidized rates to encourage rainwater harvesting for outdoor watering needs. The town's water conservation education programs aim to raise awareness about the importance of saving water. Initiates like the 'Fix a Leak Week' encourage residents to repair household leaks, potentially saving thousands of gallons of water per household each year. Ossining also monitors water usage and provides benchmarks for water conservation goals. Public spaces and schools participate in water-saving practices, setting an example for the community.

transportation

Transportation efficiency in Ossining is a priority, with efforts focused on reducing vehicular traffic and emissions. The town promotes public transportation by providing easy access to train services via the Metro-North Railroad, connecting residents to New York City and other areas. Local bus services are improved, with efficient routing and increased frequency to encourage usage. Bike-share programs and improved cycling infrastructure, including bike lanes and racks, make cycling a more viable option for residents. Ossining has also been working on pedestrian-friendly initiatives, making the town more walkable with better sidewalks and crosswalks. Carpooling and ride-sharing services are supported to decrease the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road. The town is exploring electric vehicle infrastructure, such as charging stations, to support the transition to electric vehicles. Initiatives to incorporate electric buses into the public transport fleet are considered, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. Commuter incentive programs are available to encourage residents to use alternative modes of transport, further reducing Ossining's transportation footprint.

waste

Ossining has been implementing strategies to reduce waste and promote recycling. Curbside recycling programs are robust, with clear guidelines on recycling various materials, including plastics, paper, and metals. The town has instituted composting programs to divert food waste from landfills and convert it into useful compost for local gardens and landscapes. Electronic waste recycling events are periodically held, allowing residents to responsibly dispose of electronic items. A 'Pay-As-You-Throw' trash program is considered, incentivizing waste reduction by charging residents based on the amount of non-recyclable waste they produce. The town has partnerships with waste management companies committed to improving recycling rates and reducing contamination in single-stream recycling. Ossining also educates residents on the importance of reducing single-use plastics and proper recycling practices through community workshops and school programs. Additionally, local businesses are encouraged to minimize packaging and use sustainable materials. Zero-waste initiatives are gaining traction, with local groups advocating for waste reduction and organizing clean-up events in the community.