energy

Salem, OH, has undertaken significant strides towards improving energy efficiency in recent years. The city has invested in LED street lighting, greatly reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. Local businesses have been encouraged to participate in energy-saving programs through incentives, which have led to the adoption of more efficient appliances and machinery. Residential energy efficiency programs, supported by rebates for energy-efficient appliances and home insulation, have also seen a positive response. Solar panel installations have increased, with some municipal buildings harnessing solar energy to offset electricity costs. The city's partnership with energy providers has resulted in utility-sponsored energy audits, identifying potential areas for improvement in energy use. Furthermore, community awareness campaigns have promoted energy conservation practices among citizens. As part of the broader regional effort, Salem participates in cooperative purchasing of renewable energy to increase the use of green power in the energy mix.

water

Water conservation in Salem, OH, is a priority, with the city employing advanced water metering infrastructure to detect leaks and promote efficient water use. The municipal water treatment facility operates with high efficiency, continually upgrading its processes to ensure clean and safe water for the community. Citizen engagement programs educate the public on water-saving techniques, including the use of rain barrels and drought-resistant landscaping. Incentives for water-efficient appliances are available to residents, encouraging the reduction of domestic water consumption. The city has invested in green infrastructure to manage stormwater, such as permeable pavements and rain gardens, which also contribute to water quality improvement by filtering runoff. Efforts to protect local waterways from pollution are evident in stringent industrial discharge regulations and regular monitoring of water bodies.

transportation

Salem's transportation efficiency initiatives include promoting public transit, cycling, and walking as sustainable alternatives to single-occupancy vehicle use. The city has made efforts to improve the local public transportation system, enhancing service routes and frequencies to better serve the community. Bicycle-friendly infrastructure, like dedicated lanes and bike-sharing programs, supports the growing number of cyclists. Pedestrian safety is bolstered through improved crosswalks and pedestrian zones in high-traffic areas. Ride-sharing and carpooling are encouraged through local campaigns and the provision of designated carpool parking spaces. Efforts to facilitate the use of electric vehicles (EVs) include the installation of public EV charging stations and incentives for both EV purchases and the setup of private charging infrastructure at homes and businesses. Fleet management practices for city-owned vehicles focus on fuel efficiency and the gradual incorporation of electric and hybrid models.

waste

Waste management in Salem, OH, centers around reducing landfill use through recycling and composting programs. The city offers curbside recycling services, encouraging residents to separate recyclables from regular waste. A drop-off recycling center facilitates the processing of a variety of materials, including plastics, paper, and glass. The local government incentivizes businesses to adopt waste reduction practices through potential tax benefits and recognition programs. Special collection events for hazardous waste and electronic items prevent improper disposal. The city has also implemented a yard waste collection program which diverts organic material from landfills and converts it into compost for local landscaping use. Educational programs in schools emphasize the importance of waste hierarchy, promoting the concepts of reduce, reuse, and recycle. Initiatives such as plastic bag reduction campaigns have also been introduced to tackle the issue of single-use plastics.