energy

Roslindale, MA, reflects the broader energy efficiency trends of Boston, promoting sustainable energy use through various programs and initiatives. Residential and commercial buildings in Roslindale are increasingly adopting energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and smart thermostats, contributing to lower energy consumption. The community benefits from Massachusetts' strong push for solar energy, with several homes featuring rooftop solar panels, supported by state incentives like the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target (SMART) program. Insulation improvements and energy-efficient windows are common upgrades among homeowners, often subsidized by the Mass Save program, which provides energy assessments and rebates. Local businesses also participate in the Mass Save program, taking advantage of custom incentives for high-efficiency lighting and HVAC systems. The City of Boston's Climate Action Plan underlies these efforts, targeting carbon neutrality by 2050, with Roslindale playing its part through renewable energy investments and community education on sustainable practices.

water

Water efficiency in Roslindale is an integral part of the City of Boston's conservation efforts, managed by the Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC). Investments in infrastructure upgrades, including the replacement of old pipes and the implementation of automated metering infrastructure (AMI), have contributed to a reduction in water loss through leaks. Roslindale homeowners are incentivized to install water-efficient fixtures through rebate programs offered by the BWSC. Lawn and garden conservation is encouraged through the use of rain barrels, which the city provides at a discount. The community is also active in promoting rain garden installations to manage stormwater sustainably. Educational outreach campaigns inform residents about water-wise practices, such as fixing leaks promptly and avoiding peak water usage times. Sustainable landscaping practices are encouraged to minimize water consumption, with native plant species that require less irrigation being more commonly used in public and private spaces.

transportation

Transportation efficiency in Roslindale reflects the City of Boston's broader transportation goals, which focus on increasing the use of public transit, bicycling, and walking. The Roslindale Village Main Street program supports this by enhancing the pedestrian experience and advocating for improved bicycle infrastructure. The neighborhood is served by commuter rail, multiple bus routes, and is part of Boston's Go Boston 2030 transportation plan, which aims to provide equitable and reliable transit options. The plan emphasizes the expansion of the city's bike-share program, Bluebikes, which includes stations in Roslindale, encouraging residents to use this low-emission transportation mode. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) also plays a key role, with efforts to provide cleaner, more efficient bus service. Roslindale has been a proponent of transit-oriented development, creating housing and commercial spaces near transit hubs to reduce car dependency. Electrification of the vehicle fleet is also on the rise, with an increasing number of electric vehicle charging stations installed in the area.

waste

Waste management in Roslindale follows the City of Boston's guidelines, emphasizing waste reduction, recycling, and composting to increase efficiency. The city's 'Zero Waste Boston' initiative aims to significantly reduce trash disposal by encouraging recycling and composting across all neighborhoods, including Roslindale. The curbside recycling program accepts a variety of materials, and residents are educated on proper sorting practices to minimize contamination. Composting options have been expanded, with the city providing subsidized compost bins and hosting drop-off sites for organic waste. Roslindale's local businesses and community organizations often lead neighborhood clean-up events and electronic waste recycling drives. Textile recycling is also becoming more prevalent, with convenient drop boxes throughout the community. In alignment with the broader city goals, Roslindale residents and stakeholders are working towards a circular economy, where materials are reused and kept in use for as long as possible, reducing the need for waste disposal.