Atlanta is making significant strides in environmental sustainability through various community-driven initiatives. These efforts aim to enhance the city’s resilience to climate change, promote recycling, and expand green spaces.
One Million Trees Initiative
The One Million Trees Initiative is a collaborative effort involving metro Atlanta cities, regional nonprofit organizations, and Trees Atlanta. The goal is to plant and conserve one million trees across the metro area by 2030, addressing climate and environmental stresses in urban communities. This initiative underscores the importance of urban tree canopies in improving sustainability and protecting public health. Learn more
Centers for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM)
Live Thrive, an Atlanta-based nonprofit, operates the Centers for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) to improve environmental health by encouraging reuse and diverting household hazardous waste from landfills and water systems. With locations in Atlanta and Decatur, CHaRM accepts a variety of hard-to-recycle items, contributing significantly to waste reduction efforts in the metro area. Learn more
Brownfield Program
The City of Atlanta’s Brownfield Program aims to revitalize neighborhoods by encouraging the sustainable redevelopment of brownfield sites—properties where redevelopment is complicated by potential hazardous substances. Funded by EPA grants totaling $11.7 million, the program focuses on improving quality of life, protecting human health, and increasing the city’s tax base through collaborative efforts and community engagement. Learn more
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport’s Sustainability Goals
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has set ambitious sustainability goals, including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, utilizing 100% clean and renewable energy by 2035, and diverting 90% of waste from landfills by 2035. These initiatives reflect the airport’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices. Learn more
Community Engagement and Education
Organizations like the Lakewood Environmental Arts Foundation (LEAF) are actively involved in community outreach, focusing on food distribution and environmental education. LEAF operates in the Lakewood neighborhood, distributing thousands of pounds of donated food weekly and engaging volunteers in maintaining gardens and composting efforts. Learn more
These initiatives highlight Atlanta’s commitment to environmental sustainability through community involvement and proactive policies. Residents are encouraged to participate in these programs to contribute to a greener, more resilient city.