For Local Government and the Statewide Energy Efficiency Collaborative, Sacramento County was honored with three Beacon Awards by the Institute. The Beacon Awards statewide program recognizes counties and cities that reduce emissions, save energy and practice and promote sustainability.
“Sacramento County has been on the forefront of providing services in a sustainable, cost-effective manner for years,” said County Executive Bradley J. Hudson. “We are particularly honored to be recognized by the Institute for Local Government for our continued efforts.”
Sacramento received the awards for projects that are both innovative and sustainable:
Countywide LED lighting conversion, including the Sacramento International Airport, saves $184,000 a year
LEED certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) buildings, including the Airport’s Terminal B and the Animal Care Shelter
Development of safe, convenient, and enjoyable pedestrian walkway and bikeway plans
Sustainable community development that includes new trees, and plant life to help filter water going back into local creeks
Using methane gas from the landfill to create energy to light homes
Bio-refinery to produce natural gas out of food waste from grocery stores and restaurants
Natural Gas Conversion of the Waste Management and Recycling trucks
“Sacramento County is a model of how to implement sustainability measures in a way that results in a more vibrant, healthy and prosperous community,” Martin Gonzalez, Director, Institute for Local Government.
The three awards were presented on November 18 to County Executive Bradley Hudson and the Director of the Department of Waste Management and Recycling, Paul Philleo:
Gold Level Award for Agency Energy Savings
Gold Level Award for Natural Gas Savings
Platinum Level Award for 64 Best Practice Activities