Photo Credit: Courtesy of Tammy York
Combine Chicago’s reputation as a leader in green initiatives by its consistently adopting innovative environmental solutions with the park district’s motto, “Open Active Green Connected,” and the result is leadership in progressive environmental stewardship.
"We have 52 BigBelly solar-powered trash cans along the lakefront and in neighborhood parks; recycling in all of the parks, facilities and field houses; the field houses are powered by 25-percent green power," says Brendan Daley, director of Green Initiatives for the park district, which manages over 7,700 acres of land covering 570 parks. “We also have lawnmowers powered by propane, and a fleet of hybrid vehicles including golf carts, Priuses, SUVs, pickup trucks and Segways.”
Charging A Fleet
Like many other cities and parks in the United States, Chicago is opting for fleets comprised of electric vehicles. The need for recharging stations is increasing as the number of these vehicles increases. Add in the number of commuters switching to electric vehicles, and it is important for cities and parks to find a way to recharge these vehicles without creating environmental problems.