energy

Palmetto Bay has been actively working to improve its energy efficiency through various initiatives. The village has implemented energy-efficient lighting in public buildings, contributing to a reduction in energy consumption. Solar panel installations in homes and businesses are increasingly popular, partially due to the Village's streamlined permitting process for solar installations. Palmetto Bay's Building Department has been working to promote green building practices, including offering incentives for buildings that meet certain energy efficiency criteria. The local government has also encouraged residents to participate in energy-saving programs such as the Energy Star Rebate Program, which offers rebates for energy-efficient appliances. Further efforts include community workshops on energy conservation, promoting the use of programmable thermostats, and the adoption of energy-efficient LED streetlights throughout the community.

water

Palmetto Bay places a high priority on water conservation and has been taking steps to preserve its water resources. The village has implemented a reclaimed water program for irrigation, reducing the consumption of potable water for landscaping purposes. Water-saving fixtures in municipal buildings are another measure that has been adopted to reduce water usage. Palmetto Bay also offers water conservation kits to residents, providing tools like low-flow faucet aerators and showerheads. The village actively participates in regional water conservation campaigns, such as the Miami-Dade County's 'Conservation Pays Program', which engages residents in water-saving behaviors. Educational outreach programs have been established to teach the importance of water conservation, including the 'Drop Savers' poster contest in schools, which aims to educate the younger population about water efficiency.

transportation

Efficiency in transportation is a key focus for Palmetto Bay, with efforts to provide residents and commuters with sustainable options. The village has expanded its network of bike lanes and walking paths to encourage non-motorized forms of transportation, enhancing the connectivity between neighborhoods and key destinations. Initiatives such as 'Bike-B-Que' and 'Cyclovia' events promote cycling and pedestrian traffic, fostering a sense of community while reducing vehicular use. The village has also supported the expansion of the Freebee on-demand transportation service, which offers an eco-friendly way to travel around, powered by an all-electric fleet. To reduce traffic congestion, Palmetto Bay has been an advocate for transit-oriented development and is working alongside Miami-Dade County to improve local transit services, including the bus system. Palmetto Bay's participation in programs like the 'Safe Routes to School' promotes safe and efficient transportation options for students. These efforts aim to not only increase transportation efficiency but also to improve air quality and reduce the carbon footprint of the village's residents.

waste

Palmetto Bay is committed to reducing waste and promoting recycling. The village offers a comprehensive curbside recycling program that accepts a wide variety of materials, striving to increase recycling rates among residents. The village has also sponsored periodic hazardous waste collection events to safely dispose of items such as batteries, paint, and electronics, preventing these materials from entering landfills. Additionally, Palmetto Bay has implemented the 'Palmetto Bay Polished' initiative, a campaign focused on community cleanliness and waste reduction. Bulk waste collection services are available, and the village encourages composting, offering resources and information to residents who wish to start composting at home. Public awareness campaigns have been essential in educating residents about the importance of waste reduction and proper sorting to minimize contamination in recycling streams.