Sustainability and energy-efficiency: Blue Ash ranks #1 in waste diverted from landfills
(April 22, 2020 - Blue Ash)
The City of Blue Ash has several energy-efficiency and sustainability programs and projects to mitigate environmental impacts.
Blue Ash has a free citywide recycling program currently administered through Rumpke. This program gives residents an easy way to dispose of recyclable household items. Blue Ash is ranked number one for diverting waste from landfills when compared to 48 other municipalities in the region, according to the Hamilton County Recycling and Solid Waste District. The City diverted over 8,300 tons from landfills, which is a 67 percent diversion rate for 2019. The City also partnered with Simple Recycling in 2019 to give residents an additional free option to recycle clothing.
To cut down on vehicle emissions and congestions, the City continues to implement a comprehensive Connectivity Plan. This plan connects sidewalks and trails to improve conditions for walking and biking, and it includes crosswalk improvements throughout Blue Ash.
The City also became the first suburb in the region to implement a bike-share program. Zagster bicycles are strategically located to give residents and visitors an eco-friendly alternative to driving. For those who prefer another green mode of transportation, Metro offers bus service throughout the City.
In addition, roundabouts being constructed in the City in the next few years will not only increase traffic safety but also improve air quality by decreasing congestion.
Blue Ash is also in the process of replacing streetlights and traffic signals with energy-efficient LED lights.
The City is also proactive when it comes to sustainability and environmental mitigation in the business sector. Blue Ash participates in the Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program, which offers unique financing opportunities for property owners planning energy efficiency and renewable energy improvements. Five multi-tenant properties have used this funding in recent years.
Blue Ash’s sustainability efforts are also apparent in the cutting-edge energy and water-efficiency of Summit Park. Most of the rain that falls on the park is collected in Bioswales, which are channels designed to collect stormwater runoff and remove pollutants.
Stormwater collection and recycling takes place in Downtown Blue Ash, too. The City has used pervious concrete and Silva Cells to create tree wells that allow for stormwater runoff to permeate the concrete and provide water for the tree cells. These systems will allow for a healthier street-tree environment
Blue Ash also takes steps to make sure City buildings are outfitted with energy efficiencies, including low-flow water systems and energy-efficient lighting systems.
In addition, Blue Ash Mayor Marc Sirkin has proclaimed April 22, 2020, as EARTH DAY in the City of Blue Ash. See below for the video message from Mayor Sirkin. It was created for the virtual Earth Day event being held today by the Greater Cincinnati Earth Coalition.