Most Venturans are passionate about our environment, whether it is recycling trash, keeping our beaches clean or protecting our hillsides.
You probably didn't know that your City embraces that same vision. Here are some of the things we are doing to think globally and act locally:
* In the last two years, we've reduced electricity usage by 25% in City facilities, saving money and reducing carbon emissions by 1.2 million pounds per year.
* By investing in solar and other renewable forms of energy, we've cut carbon emissions by 3.1 million pounds a year.
* By using hybrid electric vehicles, we've reduced gasoline use by 1,500 gallons a year.
* We offer and expedited plan-check process for new buildings and additions that meet national "green building" standards.
* Construction is underway to improve water quality at Surfers Point by diverting dry weather runoff from the storm drain systems into the sewer system for treatment.
* We're operating the new Community Park without pesticides and our goal is to eliminate pesticides in all parks within 5 years.
