energy

Fairbanks, Alaska, grapples with high energy demands, especially during the long, cold winters. Residents and businesses have increasingly turned to energy-efficient practices and renewable energy sources to mitigate costs and environmental impact. Efforts like the Interior Alaska Green Star program encourage energy conservation and award businesses and homes that achieve significant energy savings. The Fairbanks North Star Borough's 'Warm Up to Savings' program offers incentives for energy audits and upgrades. Solar energy adoption, though challenging given the seasonal daylight variability, is growing, with some homeowners taking advantage of the 30% federal investment tax credit for solar installations. The Golden Valley Electric Association, serving Fairbanks, is incorporating more wind power from the Eva Creek Wind Farm into its grid, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Fairbanks has also embraced district heating systems, utilizing excess heat from power plants to warm buildings, and investing in more efficient, wood-fired heating systems, compliant with the borough's air quality standards.

water

Water conservation and quality are issues taken seriously in Fairbanks. The city's Public Works Department maintains the water and wastewater systems, ensuring a high standard of potable water and efficient treatment of wastewater. The University of Alaska Fairbanks conducts regular research on water quality and provides resources for public education. Fairbanks utilities promote the use of low-flow fixtures and offer leak detection assistance to reduce unnecessary water loss. Despite its relative water abundance, concerns over contamination from historical mining and military activities have led to stricter monitoring and mitigation efforts. The community engages in river cleanups, watershed management programs, and advocates for protecting the Tanana River, a primary source for the city's water supply. The 'Water Watch' program enables residents to report pollution and participate in protecting waterways. Additionally, Fairbanks has implemented advanced metering infrastructure to facilitate better water use data collection and management, promoting water conservation.

transportation

Transportation in Fairbanks is characterized by its road system, air transportation facilities, and limited public transit options. The Fairbanks North Star Borough's Metropolitan Area Commuter System (MACS) provides bus services, although coverage is limited due to the vast and sparsely populated areas. To improve efficiency and reduce emissions, some buses now run on cleaner-burning fuels, and there are incentives for carpooling and vanpooling through programs like 'Van Tran.' The Fairbanks International Airport is vital for connectivity, with upgrades to improve operational efficiency. The city encourages bicycle use, including the installation of bike lanes and a bike-share program during warmer months to reduce traffic congestion and emissions. Winter conditions have also prompted the adoption of specialized transportation infrastructure, including heated sidewalks and anti-icing systems. Fairbanks is exploring the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) use, with charging stations becoming more prevalent, supported by state and federal incentives for EV adoption. Nevertheless, the community's remote nature and extreme weather pose ongoing challenges to diversifying and greening its transportation network.

waste

Waste management in Fairbanks is overseen by the Fairbanks North Star Borough, which operates several recycling centers accepting paper, cardboard, plastics, and metals. The Borough's Central Recycling Facility is a hub for recycling efforts, aiming to divert waste from the landfill. The 'I Recycle Fairbanks' program encourages community recycling and waste reduction through education and outreach. The borough has seen a rise in electronic waste recycling through annual events and partnerships with the Interior Alaska Green Star program. Hazardous waste disposal is systematically managed with scheduled collection days, ensuring proper treatment and reducing environmental hazards. Emphasis on composting has risen, with local initiatives supporting both residential and community composting to repurpose organic waste. Despite these efforts, Fairbanks still faces challenges in expanding recycling due to high operational costs and geographic isolation but continues initiatives to enhance waste diversion and reduce landfill dependency.