energy

Yonkers, NY continues to make strides in energy efficiency through various initiatives and incentives. The city's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint has led to the adoption of solar power in numerous residential and commercial buildings. The Yonkers Green City initiative provides a framework for sustainable development, encouraging the use of renewable energy sources. Energy-efficient LED streetlights have been installed throughout the city, reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. In collaboration with the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), Yonkers offers programs such as the Home Energy Efficiency Program, aiding homeowners in improving their homes' energy performance. The city's public buildings are becoming examples of energy efficiency, with investments in energy management systems to monitor and reduce energy usage. The Multi-Family Energy Performance Portfolio underlines the city's push for energy-efficient housing, ensuring apartments and condos meet certain energy performance standards. Tax incentives for energy-efficient buildings motivate developers to prioritize energy conservation. Additionally, the Yonkers Public School District has taken steps to integrate energy efficiency into their buildings, harnessing geothermal systems and solar panels, and setting an educational example for sustainable practices.

water

Water conservation and management in Yonkers, NY is a high priority, ensuring sustainable use of this vital resource. The city has made significant investments to upgrade its water infrastructure, which includes the repair and replacement of old pipelines to reduce leakage and water loss. Yonkers utilizes advanced metering infrastructure to accurately monitor water usage and quickly detect leaks. Water-saving fixtures in public buildings and facilities are increasingly prevalent, demonstrating the city's commitment to decreasing water consumption. There are incentives for residents and businesses that install water-efficient appliances and fixtures. The Greener Yonkers initiative promotes the use of rain barrels and green infrastructure to capture and reuse rainwater, reducing stormwater runoff and sewer system overflow. Educational programs and community outreach inform citizens about the importance of water conservation and the practical steps they can take to contribute. The Saw Mill River Daylighting project, which has uncovered and restored sections of the river, is an example of the city's efforts to enhance the local water environment and engage the community with their waterways. Yonkers also works to protect the quality of its water sources through stringent wastewater treatment regulations and pollution control measures.

transportation

Transportation in Yonkers, NY is becoming increasingly efficient and eco-friendly as the city strives to provide sustainable transit options for its residents. Yonkers has a well-connected public transportation system that includes buses and trains, both of which are being updated to be more energy-efficient and to provide a reliable service. To encourage residents to use public transportation, the city has invested in improving transit hubs and providing real-time updates for buses and trains. There are additional incentives such as reduced fares for seniors, students, and low-income commuters. Initiatives like the Yonkers Bike Share Program promote cycling as a sustainable transportation alternative, and the expansion of bike lanes enhances safety and connectivity for cyclists. The city also supports the use of electric vehicles (EVs) through the installation of EV charging stations in public areas and the adoption of EVs within the municipal fleet. Yonkers' Complete Streets policy aims to make the streets safer and more accommodating for all modes of transportation, including walking and biking. Efforts are also underway to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality by encouraging carpooling and the use of low-emission vehicles. The city continually explores innovative transportation technologies and strategies to advance its sustainability goals.

waste

Waste management in Yonkers, NY is advancing with an emphasis on reducing, reusing, and recycling to minimize landfill impact. The city supports a robust curbside recycling program that accepts a broad range of materials including paper, cardboard, metals, glass, and certain plastics. Yonkers has implemented a single-stream recycling system, simplifying the process for residents and boosting participation rates. There are also special disposal events for hazardous materials, preventing improper disposal. The city encourages the donation of usable goods to local charities, diverting them from the waste stream. Electronic waste is collected through designated programs to ensure it is recycled or disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Yonkers also promotes composting, both through community programs and by encouraging residents to compost at home, thus reducing organic waste. The city has taken a proactive approach to enforce anti-littering laws, maintaining cleanliness and community pride. Additionally, local businesses are encouraged to minimize waste by adopting sustainable practices, and educational campaigns raise awareness about the importance of waste reduction. Yonkers' Zero Waste Plan aims to further decrease waste generation and increase diversion rates through innovative policies and community participation.