As part of a pilot program to conserve energy, Richland County replaced fluorescent fixtures at one of its largest facilities with new technology and the savings are worth repeating.

 A $5,000 grant from the South Carolina Energy Office and $8,900 in funding from the SCE&G Energy Wise program helped offset the cost to outfit the facility on Powell Road with light-emitting diode (LED) fixtures. Representatives from the state office and SCE&G attended Tuesday’s Richland County Council meeting for a check presentation.

Richland County has adopted new policies for its buildings and vehicles to increase energy efficiency and reduce operations costs.

Two policies adopted by County Council will ensure new and renovated County buildings meet certain energy standards and county-owned vehicles use clean fuel alternatives.

The policies are considered necessary as the county seeks to be a local government leader in sustainability practices.

Richland County is dedicated to implementing practices that contribute to a cleaner environment, healthier communities and a more fiscally sound government – and does so through a comprehensive sustainability program.

The USGBC-South Carolina Chapter, AIA South Carolina and Conservation Voters of SC are inviting communities to take action on campuses in South Carolina and around the world for the third annual Green Apple Day of Service, September 27, 2014.  On this day, they are encouraging K-12 and college/university students, teachers, and administrators to plan a school sustainability project, and work with community volunteers to create positive environmental change.

Click here to sign up as a Mentor or Volunteer.

Click here to sign up as a School.

Richland County, WLTX, The State Fairgrounds, Keep the Midlands Beautiful, Sonoco, City of Columbia, and the Richland County haulers teamed up once again for the award winning Richland Recycles Day! This is a great way to get rid of that junk you found during your spring cleaning, and make sure it's disposed of in a responsible way. We took over 10,000 lbs of electronics, paint, household chemicals, cleaners, mattresses, refrigerator and stoves, old bikes, lawn mowers, cooking oil, tires, shredding paper, and so much more.