Dunedin's Sustainability and Resilience Efforts
Natalie Gass, Sustainability Program Manager for the City of Dunedin, discussed the concept of sustainability and its importance in Dunedin, emphasizing the need to meet the needs of the present without compromising future generations. She also highlighted the role of resilience in adapting to environmental conditions and preventing issues. Natalie then shared the history of Dunedin's sustainability program, which started in 2007 with creating a sustainability coordinator position. She mentioned the City's achievements, such as becoming the first platinum-level green local government in Florida in 2013 and signing on to clean energy goals in 2018. Natalie also introduced the Florida Gulf Coast Hope Spot, an ocean conservation project, and mentioned the support of renowned oceanographer and activist Dr. Sylvia Earle.
City's Sustainability Efforts and Projects
Natalie discussed the City's sustainability efforts, highlighting the adoption of the first-ever sustainability master plan called 'Dream' in 2022. She mentioned the new City Hall, a 3 Green Globe-certified building with solar panels and native plant landscaping. Natalie also noted a shift in perspective towards sustainability and resilience, emphasizing that it's now considered a foundation of daily life rather than a 'nice to have.' She mentioned ongoing projects, including a solar feasibility study for municipal buildings and an energy efficiency grant application. Lastly, she touched on the City's vulnerability assessment and adaptation planning, which received a grant from Resilient Florida.
City Sustainability Rebates and Recycling
Natalie discussed the City's sustainability rebate programs, which offer up to $2,500 per project for initiatives such as installing electric vehicle charging, native plant landscaping, and solar panels. She also mentioned the City's recycling program, emphasizing the importance of correct recycling practices for worker safety and machinery efficiency. Natalie clarified that the rebate programs are open to all organizations and businesses in Dunedin, with completed projects eligible for the rebate. She also mentioned the City's ongoing recycling program and the availability of paper shredding and hazardous waste collection services. Natalie's team, housed in the city manager's office, works closely with the environmental team on projects like infrastructure updates and resilience measures.
Natalie provided the following links:
Resiliency & Sustainability Rebate Program:
The City of Dunedin offers residents and business owners to apply for a rebate for constructed improvements that lead to greater resiliency and sustainability. The project must be completed to be eligible for the rebate.
Link: https://www.dunedingov.com/City-Services/Sustainable-Living/Resiliency-Sustainability-Rebate-Program
Solar Power Rebate Program:
The City of Dunedin currently offers residents and business owners within the City limits a rebate for installing solar panels. This program aligns with the City's clean energy goals and sustainability commitments.
Sustainable living city webpage: https://www.dunedingov.com/City-Services/Sustainable-Living
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