Sustainability is a City priority, but creating a healthy environment, economy, and society is going to take the efforts of all of us.
In the Community
- Join an advisory board
- Attend City Commission, Planning Commission, or Transportation Commission meetings about topics you’re interested in
- Provide feedback on surveys and draft plans. Sign up for notifications here!
- Follow the Sustainability Department on Facebook
- Sign up for Douglas County KSU Extension Programs like Master Gardeners, 4-H programs for kids, and cooking classes
- Volunteer to keep Lawrence parks pesticide free
- Celebrate at the Earth Day Parade and Celebration
At Home
Energy efficiency
- Calculate how much energy you can save in your home, office or school
- Check out these energy saving tips from Westar and Black Hills
- Calculate your carbon footprint
Renewable energy
- Find out more about renewable energy options for your home or business
- Sign up to get your power from renewable sources through Westar or Black Hills
Fuel saving
- Buy a hybrid, CNG, or high fuel efficiency car
- Drive less
Local foods
- Learn more about efforts to promote healthy, nutritious foods in our community by visiting LiveWell Lawrence and the Douglas County Food Policy Council
- Grow your own food. Check out the City’s new Urban Agriculture Guidance to find out what you can grow and where
- Buy local foods from nearby farmers markets:
- Sign up for a community garden plot through Lawrence’s Common Ground program
Recycling
- Learn about “green” lawn care options like mulch mowing and backyard composting
- Recycle your household hazardous wastes like batteries, paints, and cleaning products
- Know your recycling services – from curbside pick up to electronics recycling events
- Compost your yard and kitchen waste
Outdoors and recreation
- Visit one of our City of Lawrence parks
- Explore the City’s bike and walking paths
- Explore our ecosystem at Prairie Park Nature Center
Transportation
- Ride your bike to work, to school, or just for fun
- Ride the Lawrence Transit System to get to campus and around town
- Get out of town – by train! Amtrak’s Southwest Chief route offers daily service through Lawrence at the Santa Fe Station in East Lawrence
Water & Utilities
- Plant a rain garden
- Build a rain barrel
- Understand how you can help prevent stormwater pollution and keep our water clean
- Find out how you can help conserve water