energy

In Aurora, MO, the local government has implemented several initiatives to boost energy efficiency. The town's Energy Conservation Program actively promotes the use of LED lighting in both public and private buildings, which has significantly reduced energy consumption across the city. Additionally, Aurora has seen a gradual increase in the installation of solar panels on residential and commercial properties, incentivized by state tax benefits and local rebates. The city's partnership with energy service companies has enabled energy performance contracting, allowing public facilities to undergo energy-efficiency retrofits at no upfront cost. Efforts in energy education are ongoing, with workshops and programs aimed at informing residents about the benefits of energy conservation and efficient appliances, which have been made more affordable through the local utility's rebate programs. Moreover, the city has adopted a green building code which supports the construction of energy-efficient homes and buildings, ensuring that new developments contribute to overall energy savings in the community.

water

Aurora's water efficiency strategies focus on sustainable water use and conservation. The Water Conservation Plan includes incentives for the installation of low-flow fixtures in homes and businesses, which has led to a measurable reduction in water consumption. The city ensures that its infrastructure is well-maintained, and leak detection programs have been effective in preventing water loss due to aging pipes. Rain barrel distribution events encourage residents to collect and use rainwater for gardening, further reducing demand on the municipal water supply. Aurora's Wastewater Treatment Plant has been updated with advanced technologies that improve water quality while also enhancing the efficiency of the treatment process. The city operates a water reclamation program, which treats and repurposes wastewater for non-potable uses, such as irrigation and industrial processes. Public education campaigns have effectively raised awareness about the importance of water conservation, and the city regularly hosts workshops on xeriscaping and other water-saving landscaping techniques.

transportation

Transportation efficiency in Aurora, MO has seen significant advancements through various initiatives. The city has expanded its public transit system, providing residents with more routes and reliable services, which actively reduces the number of individual vehicles on the road. A local Bike Share program encourages active transportation and helps to alleviate traffic congestion. The construction of additional bike lanes and pedestrian pathways has made non-motorized transit more accessible and safer for residents. Aurora has also taken steps to integrate electric vehicles (EVs) into the municipal fleet, and public EV charging stations have been installed to support the adoption of electric vehicles by residents. A Rideshare Program promotes carpooling within the community, offering a sustainable alternative to single-occupancy vehicle commutes. Furthermore, the city has engaged in smart traffic management systems, which optimize signal timings to reduce idle times and gas consumption, thereby lowering transportation-related emissions.

waste

The city of Aurora, MO is committed to improving waste efficiency through its comprehensive waste management program. The curbside recycling program addresses waste efficiency by diverting recyclable materials from the landfill, which has been well-received by the community. Aurora has also established a yard waste collection service that encourages composting and reuse of organic materials. The local Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event, held annually, allows residents to safely dispose of hazardous items, reducing the potential for environmental contamination. Further, the city's investment in a modern fleet of waste collection vehicles has improved collection efficiency and reduced emissions. A 'Pay-As-You-Throw' program has been proposed to incentivize residents to produce less waste, by charging them according to the amount of trash they dispose of, rather than a flat fee. Aurora's businesses are also encouraged to participate in waste reduction efforts through a voluntary Business Recycling Program, which provides resources and recognition for businesses that actively reduce, reuse, and recycle.