Greening of Pittsburgh

We are excited to use these occasional updates to share news about the innovative initiatives we are working on, as well as to update you on existing “green” projects in the City of Pittsburgh.

In October 2008, Mayor Luke Ravenstahl hired the City’s first-ever Sustainability Coordinator and created the Office of Sustainability and Energy Efficiency to provide guidance on greening the City’s operations and facilities. The Sustainability Coordinator is tasked with implementing the municipal recommendations of the Pittsburgh Climate Action Plan, adopted in August 2008, as well as collaborating with individuals from all departments to strengthen existing environmental initiatives and ensure that sustainability is integrated into all City operations.

Staffed by the Sustainability Coordinator and Energy and Utilities Manager, the Office of Sustainability and Energy Efficiency also serves as a work and learning space for students and young adults who work with the City through class projects, independent studies, internships and fellowships.

Did you know that the City of Pittsburgh…

Recently created a Green Guide to aid citizens in “going green” in Pittsburgh?
Gave away 2,000 tree seedlings to residents in April 2010?
Was recently recognized with ‘Bicycle Friendly’ status by the League of American Bicyclists?
Replaced all of its traffic signals with energy efficient LED models in 2008, saving nearly $20,000 per month?
Purchases 15% of its electricity from renewable wind sources?
Is one of only 25 U.S. cities to be awarded a Solar America Cities grant through the Department of Energy?
Has transformed over 120 vacant lots around the city into common green spaces through the Green Up program?
Uses a B20 biodiesel blend in all of its diesel equipment?
Collected over 13,200 tons of recyclables curbside in 2009, which is a 19.5% Increase from 2008?

To learn more about these projects, click on City of Pittsburgh