energy

Glen Ellyn, Illinois, has taken strides in energy efficiency with several initiatives. The village participates in a municipal electric aggregation program aimed at providing residents and small businesses with cost-effective electricity from alternative suppliers, which often includes a higher percentage of renewable energy sources. The village encourages energy conservation through community programs and partnerships with organizations like the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA), offering energy-saving tips and resources to residents. Local government buildings aim to reduce energy consumption by updating to more energy-efficient HVAC systems and lighting. Incentives for residential and commercial energy efficiency improvements are available, including rebates for Energy Star appliances and HVAC systems. Solar energy use is on the rise, with tax credits and rebates available for installation of solar panels. Additionally, energy audits are increasingly common, helping homeowners identify ways to save energy and reduce utility bills. As part of the village's commitment to sustainability, new construction projects often incorporate energy-efficient designs and materials, adhering to strict building codes that exceed standard efficiency requirements.

water

Water conservation and quality are priorities in Glen Ellyn. The village operates its water system and has installed water-saving fixtures in public facilities to reduce consumption. Residents are encouraged to use rain barrels to collect stormwater for gardening, and there are programs in place that offer rebates for such water-saving devices. Glen Ellyn has a cross-connection control program to protect the tap water system from contamination. The village's stormwater management practices include the use of permeable pavements and green infrastructure to reduce runoff and improve water quality. The local government stresses the importance of proper disposal of household chemicals and medications to prevent pollution of waterways. The Water Billing Division offers incentives for residents to install WaterSense-labeled products, which conserve water without sacrificing performance. Education initiatives focus on teaching water conservation techniques, such as xeriscaping and efficient lawn watering. The village continues to invest in its water treatment facilities to ensure that residents have access to clean, safe drinking water and that wastewater is treated effectively before being returned to the environment.

transportation

Transportation in Glen Ellyn is geared towards efficiency and sustainability. The village supports various modes of transportation to reduce reliance on individual cars, including a commuter rail station that connects residents to downtown Chicago and other suburbs. The Pace Bus service provides additional public transportation options. Glen Ellyn encourages cycling and walking, with investments in bike lanes, paths, and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes. There are bike racks throughout the downtown area and other key destinations to facilitate mixed-mode commuting. The village is also exploring the feasibility of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to support the transition to electric transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Local carpooling initiatives and rideshare programs are promoted to decrease the number of single-occupancy vehicles. Glen Ellyn recognizes the importance of transportation in community design and strives to create a compact, walkable community where residents can easily access services and amenities. To incentivize residents to use greener modes of transportation, the village has considered programs like reduced parking fees for fuel-efficient vehicles and car-sharing services.

waste

Waste reduction and recycling are key components of Glen Ellyn's environmental initiatives. The village offers single-stream recycling, which simplifies the process for residents, encouraging higher participation rates. There is a robust yard waste collection program that includes the composting of leaves, grass clippings, and branches, diverting substantial organic waste from landfills. The village hosts regular electronic waste recycling events, safely disposing of electronics and preventing hazardous substances from contaminating the environment. There's also a prescription drug disposal program to prevent inappropriate disposal that could harm water systems. Businesses and schools participate in waste reduction efforts, and the village promotes the use of reusable materials and proper recycling to minimize waste in commercial settings. The community has educational programs to increase awareness about the importance of reducing waste, reusing products, and recycling. To incentivize waste reduction, the village has explored pay-as-you-throw programs, which charge residents based on the amount of non-recyclable waste they produce. Construction waste management is also a focus, with guidelines in place for recycling and reusing materials from construction and demolition sites.