energy

Columbia, MO, has demonstrated a strong commitment to energy efficiency through various city-led initiatives and partnerships. The city operates its own electric utility, which incentivizes customers to conserve energy by offering rebates for home energy audits and for the installation of energy-efficient appliances. The city also strongly supports the use of renewable energy sources. There is a significant investment in solar energy with multiple solar farms in operation and ongoing encouragement for residential and commercial solar installations. The 'Columbia Water & Light' department's voluntary 'Renewable Energy Certificates' program allows customers to support renewable energy development. Furthermore, the city has invested in energy-efficient public buildings and street lighting, and it is involved in educational campaigns to encourage citizens to reduce energy consumption at home and at work.

water

Columbia places a high value on water conservation and quality. The city operates a modern water treatment facility that ensures a clean and reliable water supply to its residents. Efforts to protect the local watershed, like the 'Stormwater Utility' program, work to maintain and improve stormwater infrastructure and reduce pollution entering local water bodies. The 'Water Conservation Tips' program provides residents with resources and strategies to reduce their water use, while various educational campaigns highlight the importance of water preservation. Incentives for water-efficient appliances are offered, and the city has implemented a tiered water pricing structure to encourage conservation. The city also continually assesses and updates its wastewater treatment processes to meet or exceed regulatory standards, ensuring environmental stewardship and public health.

transportation

Columbia's transportation system is being developed with an emphasis on efficiency and sustainability. The city's public transit system, 'Go COMO', has been transitioning its fleet to electric and hybrid buses to reduce emissions. Columbia also fosters alternative transportation by maintaining a comprehensive network of bike lanes, trails, and pedestrian paths that encourage non-motorized transportation. The 'Columbia Vision Commission' works to integrate sustainability into transportation planning, aiming for a future where residents can live closer to work and play, reducing the overall need for vehicle trips. There's an emphasis on transit-oriented developments and connecting residential areas to the city center and employment hubs through efficient public transit. Additionally, the city supports carpooling and ride-sharing programs to reduce the number of vehicles on the road, contributing to lower congestion and improved air quality.

waste

Waste management in Columbia is proactive, focusing on reducing landfill waste through comprehensive recycling and composting programs. The city offers single-stream recycling, which simplifies the process for residents, thereby increasing participation rates. Yard waste is banned from the landfill, and the city provides curbside pickup of yard waste which is then composted. Columbia also operates the 'Columbia Regional Solid Waste Management Facility', which emphasizes the importance of responsible waste disposal and resource recovery. The city has targeted waste reduction through its 'Waste Minimization Plan' and promotes e-waste recycling events and hazardous waste collection for safe disposal. Businesses and multi-family residences are supported through the 'Recycling Ambassadors' program, which educates and assists in implementing effective recycling strategies.