Atlanta is making significant strides in environmental sustainability through various initiatives aimed at enhancing the city’s green spaces, promoting recycling, and implementing sustainable infrastructure.
One Million Trees Initiative
The One Million Trees Initiative is a collaborative effort involving metro Atlanta cities, regional nonprofit organizations, and Trees Atlanta. The goal is to plant and conserve one million trees across the metro area by 2030. This initiative addresses environmental challenges by improving urban tree canopy, which helps mitigate climate change effects and enhances community well-being. Residents are encouraged to participate by planting trees and reporting their contributions to the initiative. Learn more about the One Million Trees Initiative.
Centers for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM)
Live Thrive, an Atlanta-based nonprofit, operates the Centers for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) to improve environmental health by encouraging reuse and diverting household hazardous waste from landfills and water systems. CHaRM has two permanent drop-off facilities in Atlanta and Decatur, accepting a wide range of hard-to-recycle items. These centers are open by appointment, providing residents with accessible options for responsible waste disposal. Find out more about CHaRM.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport’s Sustainability Goals
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is committed to becoming the most sustainable airport globally. Its sustainability goals include achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, utilizing 100% clean and renewable energy by 2035, and diverting 90% of waste from landfills by 2035. The airport encourages passengers to participate in sustainable practices, such as using water refill stations and recycling bins available throughout the facility. Explore the airport’s sustainability initiatives.
Mayor’s Office of Sustainability and Resilience
The Mayor’s Office of Sustainability & Resilience (MOSR) leads efforts to establish and promote policies related to environmental sustainability and climate resilience. Under the leadership of Chief Sustainability Officer Chandra Farley, the office focuses on addressing the inequitable effects of climate change through an environmental justice lens. MOSR collaborates with various stakeholders to implement programs that enhance the city’s sustainability and resilience. Learn more about MOSR.
These initiatives reflect Atlanta’s commitment to building a sustainable future by enhancing green spaces, promoting responsible waste management, and implementing environmentally friendly infrastructure projects. Residents are encouraged to participate in these programs to contribute to the city’s environmental goals.