Office of Sustainability

The Office of Sustainability (OS) was implemented in FY 2010 to further implement Resolution 160-06 A endorsing the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement and to set forth a road map for sustainability in the community. As part of that overall plan, it was felt important to have a department and staff dedicated to spearheading all of the sustainability efforts for the community. This will ensure that all areas of the local government and community are working together to reach the same goals guided by this department and staff. 

The City received a Department of Energy ARRA Stimulus Block Grant in the later part of FY 2009 with funding for a Sustainability Manager and start up costs for the Office of Sustainability.  This department will be responsible for administering this 3-year block grant, planning, directing, coordinating a business plan, integrating short and long term sustainable comprehensive action plans, resource conservation, and related sustainability programs and operations to advance a more sustainable, vital and well planned future for Columbia.  

What is “Sustainability”?

A community is sustainable when it meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Current sustainability efforts in the city of Columbia

• LEED-certified buildings: Many new facilities within the City of Columbia operations have pursued, or are pursuing LEED certification status with the US Green Building Council (USGBC). The LEED green building certification program is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings.
• Sustain Columbia: See how the City of Columbia has taken a proactive approach to reduce our carbon footprint by altering methods of transportation, energy consumption, urban planning and sustainable architecture to preserve the city for future generations.
• Energy Efficiency: Visit Water & Light’s programs that help to increase your energy efficiency and read get some conservation tips.
• Stormwater Management: Find contact information, outreach, education, construction, new development, and resource information about the City’s storm water management program.
• Renewable Energy: Read through Columbia Water and Light’s 2010 Renewable energy report.
• Recycling: Learn about Columbia’s recycling program as well as drop off sites, curb-side recycling, and additional recycling resources.
• Non-Motorized Transportation: Click here and you will be transported to GetAbout Columbia’s website with information about more sustainable transportation including cycling courses, maps, ways to get involved, and upcoming events.