energy

Sunnyvale, California, is focused on sustainable energy practices and reducing its carbon footprint. The city boasts a robust solar program, with numerous residential and commercial properties harnessing solar power to meet their energy needs. The Silicon Valley Clean Energy (SVCE) program, which Sunnyvale is a part of, provides residents and businesses with carbon-free electricity. The local government offers incentives for energy efficiency upgrades, such as rebates for installing energy-efficient appliances and lighting. The city’s Building Division ensures that all new construction meets or exceeds California's Title 24 energy standards. Furthermore, Sunnyvale encourages the use of electric vehicles (EVs) through an expanding network of EV charging stations and offers incentives for EV purchases. The city also supports the use of clean energy in municipal operations, aiming to power all city facilities with 100% renewable energy.

water

Water conservation is a priority in Sunnyvale, where the semi-arid climate demands efficient water use. The city has implemented a Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance to promote drought-tolerant landscaping practices. Residents are encouraged to use water-efficient irrigation systems, such as drip irrigation and smart controllers. Rebate programs are in place to incentivize the replacement of water-intensive lawns with native, drought-resistant plants. Sunnyvale offers a residential water conservation program that provides free home water audits to identify leaks and inefficiencies. The city’s commitment to water reuse and recycling includes advanced purification facilities that treat wastewater to near-distilled water quality for non-potable uses. Additionally, the public utility educates the community on the importance of water conservation through workshops and school programs.

transportation

Transportation efficiency in Sunnyvale is facilitated by comprehensive public transportation options and infrastructure improvements designed to encourage alternative modes of transport. The city is served by a network of buses, light rail, and Caltrain, which connects Sunnyvale to major employment and activity centers across the Bay Area. Sunnyvale's focus on creating a pedestrian and bicycle-friendly environment includes miles of bike lanes, bike-sharing programs, and pedestrian pathways. The local government has initiatives in place to promote carpooling and ridesharing to reduce the number of single-occupancy vehicles on the road. The city continuously upgrades its transportation infrastructure with synchronized traffic signals and smart city technologies to improve traffic flow and reduce emissions. Aimed at reducing the transportation sector’s environmental impact, these actions also support a healthier, more sustainable community.

waste

Sunnyvale’s waste management programs are designed to reduce landfill waste and promote recycling and composting. The city operates a single-stream recycling system, which simplifies the recycling process for residents and increases participation rates. Sunnyvale has set ambitious waste diversion goals and implements a robust curbside composting program, accepting food scraps, yard trimmings, and other compostable materials. The city’s Zero Waste Strategic Plan guides efforts to minimize waste and encourages materials to be repurposed. The local government offers waste reduction workshops and provides resources for sustainable waste practices. There is also a strong focus on reducing plastic use, with policies aimed at limiting single-use plastics and supporting the use of reusable bags and containers.