energy

Travelers Rest, SC has been making efforts to improve energy efficiency by adopting various initiatives. The city has seen a rise in residential and commercial solar panel installations, largely due to state incentives such as tax credits and net metering policies that make solar investment more affordable. Local businesses have increasingly participated in the Duke Energy's Smart Saver program to get incentives for energy-efficient lighting, HVAC, and machinery upgrades. The community is also embracing energy-efficient construction, with new buildings adhering to higher insulation and energy standards. LED streetlight retrofits have been another area of focus, reducing municipal energy consumption. These measures contribute significantly to lowering the overall carbon footprint of the area.

water

Water conservation in Travelers Rest is a priority, with numerous initiatives aiming to reduce water waste and protect local waterways. The city has been updating its infrastructure, repairing old pipelines to reduce leaks, and implementing smart water metering to provide residents with real-time usage data. Landscape ordinances encourage the use of drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation systems. Rainwater harvesting systems are slowly being adopted by residents, thanks also to educational campaigns. The wastewater treatment facilities have been upgraded to ensure cleaner effluents, helping to preserve the quality of water in nearby rivers and streams. The city promotes WaterSense labeled fixtures and appliances, which help consumers save water and lower bills.

transportation

Travelers Rest has taken steps to improve transportation efficiency by developing more accessible and sustainable transportation options. The expansion of the Swamp Rabbit Trail, a popular multi-use trail, encourages walking and cycling, thus reducing vehicle usage for short trips. The city is also seeing an increase in electric vehicle charging stations, made possible through partnerships with local businesses and utility providers, to support electric vehicle adoption. Efforts to optimize public transportation include improved bus services with more routes and better scheduling. Infrastructure improvements, such as the addition of roundabouts and synchronized traffic lights, have eased traffic flow and reduced vehicle idling times. These initiatives collectively enhance mobility while aiming to lower transportation-related emissions.

waste

Waste management in Travelers Rest has made notable strides by enhancing recycling efforts and reducing landfill use. The city has implemented a comprehensive curbside recycling program that encourages residents to recycle plastics, paper, glass, and metals. This program is supported by educational campaigns about the importance of recycling and proper sorting techniques. There is also a growing number of community composting initiatives aimed at diverting organic waste from landfills. Additionally, local businesses are encouraged to participate in waste audit programs to identify waste reduction opportunities. The city has been working with regional waste management authorities to improve waste collection efficiency and to promote the recycling of electronic waste and hazardous materials.