Sustainability Practices
Our vision, rooted in community-based collaboration, has led to improvements in air quality, investments in our parks and waterways, restoration of the tree canopy, and transitions to alternative fuel vehicles. With each step, Allegheny County is committed to leading the region in identifying and showcasing best practices to advance sustainability initiatives. It has led the way in testing new technologies and advancing sensible sustainability solutions that collectively move the region towards long-term prosperity.
Central to this goal is prioritizing realistic sustainability achievements based on cost-effectiveness and day-to-day operational improvements. The county has more than two million square feet of office space, which presents opportunities to reduce energy consumption and adopt proper waste management practices. As the county makes internal efficiency updates, it remains committed to serving as a model for residents, stakeholders, and other communities.
Internal Practices
Alt Fuels - alternative fuels reduce tailpipe emissions and maintenance and operation costs for the county’s fleet.
Recycling & Waste - the county recycles waste produced from all county-owned facilities and hosts public recycling collections.
Sustainable Purchasing - buying practices that demonstrate the county’s commitment to reducing the environmental, social, and economic impacts of its purchases.
Water & Energy Use - Allegheny County strives for efficient and responsible energy and water consumption.
External Leadership Activities
- Encouragement of residents, businesses, and municipalities to also implement sustainable practices that support economic interests in an environmentally appropriate and equitable manner
- Participating in the Green Building Alliance 2030 Challenge and the Sustainable Workplace Designation
- Participating with local sustainability and climate partners on a variety of initiatives