Sustainable Development

Overview
Oakland is among an increasing number of cities that recognize the need to implement sustainable development strategies that ensure both the long-term economic health and the environmental quality of their communities. "Sustainability" is commonly defined as meeting current economic, social, and environmental needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.

Programs & Services
The Alameda County Waste Management Authority and Source Reduction and Recycling Board provides assistance to businesses in the areas of waste prevention, recycled product market development, technical assistance, and public education. By reducing waste and recycling, businesses can reduce waste disposal costs, improve long-term profitability, and improve the bottom-line, while taking practical steps toward a sustainable economy. In addition to free environmental assessments and technical assistance, the organization provides grants and loans for waste reduction and waste diversion. The Board can be reached at www.stopwaste.org or by calling 510.614.1699.

City of Oakland Beautification Initiative
The City of Oakland launched a citywide Beautification Initiative to keep Oakland clean and beautiful. An interagency team, led by the Office of the City Manager, streamlined internal programs to work with residents and businesses to ensure Oakland’s natural beauty. To learn more about the Beautification Campaign, visit www.oaklandshines.com or call 510.444.CITY.

City of Oakland Recycling Hotline
Waste reduction and recycling can keep garbage disposal costs under control and help a business maximize its profit potential by saving money on purchasing.

Many businesses in Oakland can receive convenient, low-cost recycling services. The Recycling Hotline also has a directory of companies that provide recycling services for businesses. City staff members are available for free telephone or on-site consultations. Visit www.oaklandrecycles.com or call the City of Oakland Recycling Hotline, 510.238.SAVE for details.

Clean Water and Water Conservation Services
Many Oakland businesses served by the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) have lowered their water and sewer bills and have received cash rebates by participating in EBMUD’s free conservation programs. No matter what size of facility, businesses can take advantage of EBMUD’s conservation services.

EBMUD Water Conservation Division provides free surveys of water usage, rebates for installation of efficient fixtures and irrigation upgrades, and free conservation devices. The Water Conservation Division can be reached at 510.287.0590 or by visiting www.ebmud.com.

EBMUD Pollution Prevention Program keeps pollutants out of the Bay by making sure homes, businesses and industries keep them out of the sewers. It also educates customers on how to dispose of hazardous waste, how to recycle it, and how to use less harmful alternatives. For more information, call 510.287.1380.

Green Building Resource Center
The City of Oakland’s Green Building Resource Center provides information on appropriate green building strategies and is designed to be a clearinghouse for guidelines, case studies, and technical resources. Stop by the Center at 250 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Second Floor or visit it on-line at www.oaklandpw.com/greenbuilding.

Smart Lights
Lighting retrofits are a smart investment for any business. The new Smart Lights program offers discounts of up to 60% or more on the installed cost of lighting retrofits.

Smart Lights is easy. There’s no messy rebate paper work since the program provides upfront cash discounts. The program also provides comprehensive, professional lighting services at no cost including lighting assessment, negotiation of discounts, and construction management.

On average, Smart Lights will pay 30% to 60% of project costs, based on estimated energy savings. Most businesses will recover their costs in lighting improvements within one or two years of installation.

To learn more, visit www.smartlights.org or call 510.981-7750.