Sustainability

Each spring, you may hear about “No Mow May.” This campaign encourages people to delay mowing to let early flowers grow, providing food for bees, butterflies, and other helpful insects. Even if you’ve already mowed this season, there are still plenty of ways to support pollinators year-round.

Across Colorado’s Front Range, native bees, butterflies, birds, and even garden snakes help keep our landscapes healthy. Many live in or near our yards. Mowing less often and allowing patches of grass or flowers to grow taller gives insects a place to live and feed.

Planting native species is another great way to help. These plants naturally thrive in Colorado’s climate, need less water, and support local pollinators. You can also mix in clover, wildflowers, or flowering groundcovers in place of grass. The Colorado Native Plant Society’s guide (PDF) offers excellent recommendations for low-water native plants.

Using fewer or no lawn chemicals is also key. Many weed sprays and bug killers harm more than just pests. Even organic products can be dangerous to pollinators, so always check the label. The National Wildlife Federation shares helpful tips on maintaining a chemical-free lawn.

And finally, leave a little wildness. Brush piles, bare soil, and dry leaves create habitat for insects, birds, and other beneficial creatures. Denver Urban Gardens has great ideas for creating a pollinator-friendly space.

A healthy yard doesn’t always look perfectly green. It might buzz, flutter, and even slither—these are signs of life! Supporting pollinators helps your whole garden and ecosystem thrive.

It is mid-April and that usually means you are seeing bumble bee queens, indicating that you can start your winter clean up of your plants from last season. Leaving last season's debris in place over the winter gives a home for all those pollinators and bugs so we will continue to have these beneficial bugs in the future. Let’s embrace the “winter interest” that our plants provide us!

For some reason it is always exciting to see new growth pop up in the spring along with accompanying pollinators. Is it the anticipation of those summer flowers bursting with color and attracting those bees and butterflies? Have you ever just watched those pollinators do their thing? It is amazing! Or do you prefer those autumn colors? So much to look forward to.

Are you interested in learning more about how to pick the keystone plants for our front range pollinators? Visit Home Grown National Park for tips on how to get started.

You might also consider celebrating Earth Day this year by attending the Foothills Community Choir concert focusing on the environment.

Sustainable Wheat Ridge is partnering with water conservation non-profit Resource Central again this year to offer Garden In A Box and Lawn Replacement programs at discounted prices! These programs are designed to help you remove turf from your yards, replace it with low-water pollinator-friendly landscaping, and help you save money on your water bill - all while conserving water for the planet!

Garden In A Box Program

Pre-designed garden kits contain plants that are made for Colorado soil, and the simple plant-by-number maps take the guesswork out of buying and planting. Plus, the garden kits can help neighbors save around 7,300 gallons of water over the lifetime of your garden compared to a traditional grass lawn. Gardens are expected to sell out quickly, so shop for yours today by visiting ResourceCentral.org/Gardens! Wheat Ridge residents are eligible for a $25 discount on qualifying garden kits while supplies last.

Lawn Replacement Program

Converting thirsty lawn into a low-water landscape can be exhausting! Jump-start your water saving landscape project by hiring Resource Central to physically remove and compost a section of your lawn for as little as $1.00 per square foot. They’ll help get you one step closer to planting the low-water garden you’ve always dreamed of! Wheat Ridge residents are eligible for up to a $750 discount while very limited supplies last - find more information and apply today at ResourceCentral.org/lawn or by calling 303-999-3820 ext. 221.

Valentine's Day, or any holiday for that matter, can be celebrated sustainably by using eco-friendly products, reducing waste, and supporting local businesses. Here are some quick and easy tips to keep in mind:

Use Eco-Friendly Products

• Use cloth napkins and reusable plates instead of paper
• Use eco-conscious wrapping paper
• Use sustainably grown coffee, chocolate, and organic wine. Cocoa farming causes 70% of global deforestation

Reduce Waste

• Use seasonal foods, which are healthier and have a lower carbon footprint
• Wrap gifts in upcycled materials like newspaper or fabric. Next year save and reuse some of your holiday wrapping

Support Local Businesses

• Buy handmade items from local artisans
• Share a local meal
• Help kids make eco-friendly cards in the classroom

Give Long-Lasting Gifts

• Give a living plant instead of flowers
• Give a reusable essential like a water bottle or coffee tumbler
• Give a solitary bee hive that provides shelter for native bees

By following these steps, you can start to turn sustainable living into habit and share your progress with friends and family!

Sustainability Programming Updates

Implementation of the 2024 Sustainability Action Plan is underway. On January 13 staff presented a resolution acknowledging the climate emergency, reaffirming the City’s commitment to climate action. Other projects planned for 2025 include collecting and baselining waste, emissions, and water data for municipal operations to establish subsequent reduction targets. The Sustainable Wheat Ridge committee is also working to expand participation in the Green Business Program and introduce recycling and composting options at City events such as the Easter Egg Hunt and Holiday Celebration. Additionally, staff plans to host annual events including paint recycling, e-waste recycling, and yard waste collection.

Residential Waste Engagement Project Update

City staff and HDR wrapped up the Residential Waste Engagement Project at the November 18, 2024 study session, sharing outcomes from the final phase of public engagement and public survey as well as final recommendations. At this meeting, City Council directed staff to move forward with the following steps:

• Explore increasing the frequency of annual events such as TLC Clean-Up Days and Large Item Pick-Up events, with a focus on yard waste and supporting disadvantaged households.
• Evaluate partnerships with community drop-off sites and organizations like Scraps Mile High to expand waste diversion opportunities for residents.
• Enhance awareness of available waste diversion programs and events.
• Stay engaged with the ongoing Extended Producer Responsibility efforts, which will result in access to curbside recycling at no added charge for all Colorado residents beginning in 2026.

Staff is actively working on these next steps and plans to return to City Council with an update in spring 2025.

Upgrading your home with energy-efficient features isn’t just about keeping up with trends - it’s about making smart investments that pay off in multiple ways. Whether you're looking to save money, improve the environment, or enhance your comfort, energy-efficient home updates offer a variety of benefits.

1. Cost Savings Over Time

While upgrading your home with energy-efficient features may involve an initial investment, the long-term savings can be significant. Replacing outdated appliances with ENERGY STAR-rated models, upgrading insulation, installing energy-efficient windows, and adding a smart thermostat can all dramatically reduce your energy consumption.

For example, homes with better insulation and energy-efficient HVAC systems require less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature, saving you money on heating and cooling. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, upgrading to energy-efficient systems and appliances can cut your household's energy use by up to 30%. This adds up over time, making it a financially wise decision.

Additionally, with the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, there are new federal tax credits and rebates available for homeowners who make energy-efficient upgrades. These incentives can significantly offset the cost of your improvements.

2. Environmental Benefits: Reducing Your Carbon Footprint

Upgrading your home to be more energy-efficient is also an important step toward reducing your environmental impact. Traditional energy sources like coal and natural gas contribute significantly to carbon emissions and climate change. By investing in energy-efficient technologies, you can reduce your dependence on fossil fuels and minimize your carbon footprint.

Key upgrades that contribute to a greener home include:

• Solar panels: Installing solar panels on your roof allows you to generate your own clean energy, reducing your reliance on the grid and lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
• Electric appliances: Switching from gas-powered to electric appliances (like a heat pump water heater or electric stove) reduces indoor air pollution and supports a cleaner energy grid.
• High-efficiency HVAC systems: Energy-efficient heating and cooling systems use less energy to maintain indoor comfort, which translates to fewer carbon emissions.

3. Improved Comfort and Health

Energy-efficient upgrades don't just improve your bottom line or the environment—they also enhance your home's comfort and your family's health. Many of these upgrades work together to create a healthier, more comfortable living environment.

• Improved indoor air quality: Homes with older, inefficient appliances and heating systems may have air quality issues, such as carbon monoxide leaks from gas stoves or poor ventilation. Upgrading to electric appliances and investing in high-efficiency HVAC systems with better filtration can drastically improve indoor air quality, reducing asthma and allergy symptoms.
• Smart technology: Smart thermostats and lighting systems offer personalized control over your home's energy use. They adapt to your schedule, optimizing energy efficiency while ensuring maximum comfort.

Making energy-efficient upgrades to your home is a smart, long-term investment. From saving on energy costs to contributing to a healthier planet and creating a more comfortable living space, the benefits are undeniable. With tax credits, rebates, and financing options available, now is the perfect time to take action and make your home more energy efficient. Whether you're upgrading appliances, adding insulation, or installing solar panels, each step you take will make a positive impact on your finances, your home, and the environment.

Three Reasons to Leave the Leaves!

As winter approaches, leaving leaves on the ground during winter is not just a matter of convenience — it serves an important ecological purpose. Here are three reasons to leave the leaves:

Insulation: These fallen leaves create a natural blanket that insulates the soil, protecting it from the harsh cold and preventing it from freezing too deeply. This insulation helps to maintain a stable soil temperature, which is vital for the survival of many underground organisms, including beneficial insects and earthworms. When these creatures are allowed to thrive, they contribute to a healthier and more balanced ecosystem by breaking down organic matter and improving soil structure. Additionally, this natural insulation reduces the risk of soil erosion by keeping the topsoil in place, preventing it from being washed away by winter rain or snowmelt.

Soil Nutrients: Leaves on the ground also provide essential habitat and food for various wildlife species. Many insects and small invertebrates seek refuge among the leaf litter, providing a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife during the winter months. The decomposing leaves release important nutrients into the soil, benefiting plants and trees by enhancing their growth and overall health. This natural recycling of organic matter contributes to a sustainable and self-sustaining ecosystem.

Saves Time & Resources: Leaving leaves on the ground helps gardeners and homeowners reduce the need for excessive yard work and the use of fossil fuels in the form of leaf blowers or lawn mowers. Allowing leaves to decompose naturally not only conserves energy but also saves time and resources while promoting a more environmentally friendly approach to yard maintenance.

Overall, the practice of leaving leaves on the ground during winter is a simple yet powerful way to support a healthy and resilient ecosystem, enhance soil health, and reduce our environmental impact.

Sustainable Wheat Ridge committee member, Britt Guimond (District IV), asked Councilmember Rachel Hultin (District II) a few questions about the councilmember’s opinion of sustainability in Wheat Ridge, as well as her experience engaging with Sustainable Wheat Ridge — Wheat Ridge’s resident-led, volunteer-based committee whose purpose serves to (1) advise the City of Wheat Ridge on matters pertaining to environmental sustainability, and (2) to promote sustainability programs to residents and businesses within the City of Wheat Ridge through engagement and outreach. Here’s what Councilmember Hultin had to say:

1. What do Wheat Ridge City Council members like to hear about from our community?

Councilmember Hultin: The core of what city councilors do is solve problems so we depend on our community to let us know when things don't meet expectations. It's not surprising that the overwhelming majority of what we hear are concerns and complaints, but this is only part of the information we need to make good decisions. We need to hear what is working and ideas about how to build on successes. We also need more personal stories.

• What are the day-to-day aspects of living in Wheat Ridge that contribute to your quality of life?

• How did a special event or experience deepen your appreciation for living here?

• What are the opportunities we might be overlooking?

The value of hearing hopes, ideas, and expectations helps us craft policies that not only address problems, but helps us shape the city for future generations.

2. In your opinion, how has Sustainable Wheat Ridge helped improve the city since it began in 2018?

Councilmember Hultin: Sustainable Wheat Ridge has made sustainability an integral part of our identity. Before the original committee members began their work in 2018, the city lacked a visible, coherent, and inclusive sustainability program. We were doing some good, even great, things to advance conservation and resilience. We have a long history as a designated Tree City USA, the preservation of the greenbelt as a naturalized area, celebration of our agricultural heritage; but they were disjointed. The development of the first Sustainability Action Plan (SAP) in 2018 created a container for community members and city leaders to initiate measurable successes. Despite not being officially adopted by City Council, Sustainable Wheat Ridge implemented the majority of goals from the SAP and, more importantly, elevated sustainability as a tangible community identity. I'm looking forward to adopting the updated SAP this fall to deepen our mutual accountability to center climate action and sustainable practices.

3. In your opinion, what is your favorite program, policy or improvement made to our community that was inspired by Sustainable Wheat Ridge?

Councilmember Hultin: With so, so, SO many successful programs and policies inspired by Sustainable Wheat Ridge, this could be a difficult question to answer. But I'm a Swiftie-level fangirl of Sustainable Neighborhoods. Places, people, and planet all benefit when neighbors across a spectrum of perspectives work together to turn ideas into actions in their own backyards (and front yards and neighborhood parks.). IMHO, the City of Wheat Ridge is notably responsive, but it's burdened with standards of accountability that limit municipal government. The Sustainable Neighborhoods program lets the city be a backseat partner supporting neighbors to find shared values through project- based efforts. The result? Places that center sustainable principles and people with increased civic capacity to affect meaningful change on behalf of the planet and future generations. Everyone wins today and tomorrow!

Want to be part of sustainability conversations happening in Wheat Ridge right now? Here are a few different ways to get involved:

• Visit our webpage and stay tuned for the new SAP launching in fall 2024

• Subscribe to our email newsletter

• Check out other articles we’ve written on What’s Up Wheat Ridge

• Attend city council meetings on Mondays at 6:30pm either in-person, by phone or on TV/YouTube

In 2017, Mayor Joyce Jay appointed the Wheat Ridge Environmental Sustainability Committee, now known as Sustainable Wheat Ridge. This committee, made up of 12 residents, was tasked with forming the City’s first Sustainability Action Plan focusing on six topic areas: Water, Transportation, Communications & Engagement, Solid Waste & Recycling, Energy Efficiency & Green Building, and Renewable Energy. In June 2018, the plan was presented to City Council and accepted with gratitude but was not formally adopted.

This plan led to hiring the City’s first Sustainability Coordinator, marking the first staff person focusing solely on sustainability. Since then, staff and Sustainable Wheat Ridge have focused on implementation of the action plan. To date, 64% of the plan is completed or in progress. Much of what remains is policy-focused, making it an opportune time to update the initial plan and focus on getting additional buy-in from City staff and leadership.

Prior to beginning the update process, staff conducted a Request for Proposal (RFP) solicitation. Three proposals were received, and staff interviewed three agencies before ultimately selecting Lotus Engineering & Sustainability as the chosen vendor. The budget for this project is $50,000.

The initial 2018 Sustainability Action Plan focused on the six previously mentioned topic areas and contained 20 goals and 135 implementation strategies. The updated action plan retains the original six topic areas, adds two new ones (Arts & Culture and Businesses & Jobs), and proposes 24 goals and 113 implementation strategies.

This plan represents a major milestone in the progress of Sustainable Wheat Ridge! Check out the draft plan on the right hand side of this page under "Documents."

As we strive for a healthier and more sustainable future, embracing a plant-based diet significantly benefits the environment and our community. Recent research from the University of Oxford reveals that those who follow a plant-based diet generate 75 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions than individuals consuming an average amount of meat daily.

Animal agriculture plays a substantial role in climate change, with estimates suggesting that meat, dairy, and egg production contribute up to 11 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Transitioning to a plant-based diet helps reduce emissions and addresses the immense land use associated with animal agriculture. Livestock farming occupies nearly 40 percent of the planet's habitable land, much of which could be reforested to absorb carbon dioxide and mitigate climate change.

Plant-based diets offer a wealth of health advantages, in addition to their environmental benefits. They can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. These diets are typically rich in essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, promoting overall well-being and longevity. By choosing a plant-based diet, you are not only contributing to a healthier planet but also taking control of your own health.

By adopting a plant-based diet, you are taking a small yet powerful step towards preserving our environment. Your mindful choices about food contribute to a healthier planet and set an example for future generations. Remember, adopting more plant-based eating doesn’t have to mean committing to vegetarian or vegan diets altogether. Removing meat, dairy, or eggs from one or two meals a week can add up – from both an environmental and health perspective. Let’s embrace these small changes together and be part of a global movement towards a cleaner, greener, and healthier future.