Environment and Energy

Overview

Environment and Energy

Article President’s Message Stephany Aguilar

Cars of the Future: Connected and Autonomous

Just as the Internet and smartphones changed the world, the advent of connected and autonomous vehicles will have a profound impact on our lives and our cities.

Article Features The Institute For Local Government Sustainability Team

Converting Waste to Energy: How to Make it Happen in Your Community

Local jurisdictions with anaerobic digestion projects in their communities report multiple benefits.

Dublin Uses Public-Private Partnership to Transform Neighborhood

The city converted public housing to privately owned affordable housing and created a new neighborhood. The five-year planning process involved all key stakeholders, including existing residents,…

Article Features Julie Pierce

The Future of SB 375 Implementation and Regional Planning

All 18 metropolitan planning organizations in California will have adopted their first Regional Transportation Plans under SB 375 by May 2015. This article looks at what SB 375 has accomplished…

Article Features Cory Golden

A Growing Risk: Oil Trains Raise Safety and Environmental Concerns

An oil boom in North Dakota and Canada from the Bakken shale formation and a lack of pipeline infrastructure have led to a dramatic increase in oil-by-rail shipments nationwide. As the volume…

Article City Forum Eva Spiegel

New Study Reveals Nearly $7.3 Billion Needed Annually to Make Streets and Roads Safe

In 10 years it is expected that, without greater investment, 25 percent of local streets and roads will be ranked “poor” — compared with 6 percent today. The local system will have an…

Article Web Exclusive Karalee BrowneMelissa Kuehne

Road Diets Make Streets Leaner, Safer and More Efficient

Article Executive Director's Message Chris McKenzie

Disruptive Technology, Public Policy and Leadership

Public sector leaders face a number of challenges related to disruptive technology.

Article Features Ed Wilson

Regulating Fracking in California: An Overview

Recent legislation provides a new regulatory framework.

Article Features Catherine Reheis-Boyd

Making the Case for Fracking

Expanded production of the Monterey Shale Formation could create new jobs.

Article Features Damon Nagami

California Needs to Call Time-Out on Fracking

Safeguards have not kept pace with fracking, which poses hazards.

Be a Beacon: The Power of Recognition

The Beacon Award program, a catalyst for innovative and effective solutions, addresses climate change at the local level and informs the community about these activities.

Article Features Heidi SanbornGretchen Olsen

Product Stewardship Saves Money, Creates Jobs and Reduces Waste

The law that established California’s landmark waste hierarchy of “reduce, reuse and recycle” led to collaborative efforts and the concept of product stewardship.

Article Features Karalee Browne

Beacon Award-Winner San Rafael Makes Sustainability a Priority

San Rafael has focused on sustainable land use by preserving open space, encouraging mixed-use infill development and adopting green building requirements. Now its community is actively reducing…

Elk Grove Rain Garden Plaza Showcases Water Conservation

A public project demonstrates sustainable stormwater management practices and offers an educational, inviting space.

Article Legal Notes Leah Goldberg

The Gatto Act Provides Cities With New Opportunities for Environmental Cleanup

The Legislature’s elimination of redevelopment agencies in 2012 stripped cities of several important tools to address blight in the community. Meanwhile, contamination or the threat of…

Sustainability Yields Fiscal and Economic Benefits

New resources offer practical tips to enhance cities’ economic prosperity and fiscal health.