Hoffman Estates’ green efforts recognized with award

Submitted by Doug Schultz

The village of Hoffman Estates was recently presented with the 2011 Illinois Governor’s Sustainability Award for its efforts in protecting the environment, and improving the economy through its “Growing to Greenness” program.

The village adopted the mantra of “Growing to Greenness,” which plays off the motto of “Growing to Greatness,” and has taken a comprehensive approach to fostering a more eco-friendly community.

The new police station and fire station 24 were both constructed to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-Gold standards. The efficiency of existing municipal buildings has also increased by installing energy efficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, LED lighting, and an Energy Star roof at the village hall. Further, internal policies and practices have been implemented, including an anti-idling policy for village vehicles, which saved more than 230 metric tons of carbon emissions in just one year.

Additionally, Hoffman Estates has provided reduced-rate home energy assessments for residents utilizing grant funds received from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The village offers green programs and resources to residents and businesses, such as hosting multiple recycling events that resulted in 10.14 tons of materials being diverted from landfills in 2010.

This multifaceted approach has resulted in significant savings, and it has increased conservation awareness.

Hoffman Estates was one of 25 Illinois companies and organizations honored year by the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center at a luncheon in October. Since 1987, ISTC has presented governor’s awards to organizations in Illinois that have demonstrated a commitment to environmental excellence through outstanding and innovative sustainability practices.

Information on the awards program, lists of previous winners and information on technical assistance is available from the Illinois Sustainable Technology Center at www.istc.illinois.edu.

To learn more about the village’s “Growing to Greenness” efforts, visit www.hoffmanestates.org/green.

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