energy

Eugene, OR, has been making progress in energy efficiency through a mix of policies, community initiatives, and infrastructure upgrades. The city-owned utility, Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB), offers energy-saving programs such as rebates for energy-efficient appliances and home energy audits. Residential and commercial solar programs are also in place, encouraging the installation of solar panels by providing financial incentives and technical support. The City of Eugene has been working on its Climate Recovery Ordinance, aiming to reduce the community’s fossil fuel usage and increase the production and use of renewable energy. New construction in Eugene is encouraged to meet green building standards, and retrofitting existing buildings for energy efficiency is supported by various local incentives. EWEB’s Greenpower program allows residents to invest in renewable energy by purchasing green power at a small additional cost. On the policy side, the city has adopted an Electric Vehicle (EV) Ready code for new residential buildings to promote the use of EVs. Investment in energy storage and smart grid technology has been ramping up to ensure a more resilient and efficient energy system. Energy education initiatives and partnerships with local schools and universities aim to raise awareness and train the next generation in sustainability practices.

water

Water conservation is a significant aspect of Eugene's approach to sustainability. The city's water utility, EWEB, provides resources and incentives for water efficiency, including rebates for high-efficiency toilets and clothes washers. Residents can also request free water-saving devices such as faucet aerators and low-flow showerheads. The utility offers educational programs about water conservation and provides home water audits to help residents reduce their water use. Eugene's stormwater management program emphasizes the use of green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and bioswales, to improve water quality and reduce runoff. Water quality protection is also a focus, with regulations in place to safeguard the McKenzie River, the city's primary water source. Landscaping incentives promote the use of native plants and drought-tolerant species to minimize the need for irrigation. EWEB has also been investing in upgrading its water distribution system to reduce leakage and improve efficiency, ensuring a reliable and sustainable water supply for the city.

transportation

Transportation efficiency in Eugene is fostered through a well-developed public transit system and infrastructure that encourages alternative transportation modes. The city's transit agency, Lane Transit District (LTD), operates a network of buses, including the Emerald Express (EmX) Bus Rapid Transit system, providing efficient and frequent service to major destinations. Eugene promotes cycling through an extensive network of bike lanes and paths, and the city's Bicycle and Pedestrian Strategic Plan supports ongoing development of bike-friendly infrastructure. The city has also been expanding infrastructure for electric vehicles, installing charging stations in key locations, and offering incentives for installing EV charging in homes and businesses. Car-sharing programs and ride-matching services are available to reduce car dependency and emissions. Walking and cycling are actively encouraged through events such as Sunday Streets, which opens city streets to pedestrians and cyclists. Initiatives like the SmartTrips Eugene program aim to educate citizens about sustainable transportation choices, providing personalized resources to help residents transition to more efficient modes of transport.

waste

Waste reduction and recycling have been a priority in Eugene, supported by the city's Waste Prevention and Green Building program. The program aids local businesses and residents in reducing waste and encourages the use of recycled materials. The city has implemented a comprehensive curbside recycling program, and yard waste and food scraps are collected for composting, diverting significant amounts of waste from the landfill. Eugene has set ambitious waste diversion goals, aiming to recycle or compost at least 63% of its waste. Special initiatives such as the 'Love Food Not Waste' program help to reduce food waste through redistribution and education. Businesses are encouraged to pursue waste reduction certifications and can receive support from the city to improve their practices. The city also hosts regular hazardous waste disposal events to ensure safe handling of those materials. In education, the city provides resources to schools to establish waste reduction programs. The importance of reusing materials is underlined through community events and partnerships with local organizations that focus on material exchange and repurposing.