Via: Austinist
As the trendiness of "going green" evolves more into an issue of long term sustainability, Austin continues to thrive when it comes to merging civic leadership, local business, and tactical implementation for more sustainable living. Popular Science recently released a list of the top 50 greenest cities and Austin rounded out the top 10. Other Texas cities making the top 50 include Fort Worth, Amarillo, and Laredo.
Different from other top "green lists" out there on which Austin also ranks, this list uses hard core survey data of key constituencies. Taking into account Electricity, Transportation, Green Living, and Recycling/Green Perspective, the study used raw data from the U.S. Census Bureau and the National Geographic Society’s Green Guide. The collected data and government statistics included over 100,000 people in more than 30 categories with cities earning between 1-10 points. Here is how Austin shaped up:
Electricity: 6.0; Transportation: 5.9; Green Living: 3.3; Recycling/Green Perspective: 4.9
The electricity ranking should come as no surprise based on Austin's commitment to renewable sources such as wind, solar, and local incentives for consumers. However the green living ranking which is based primarily on USGBC certifications did seem a bit surprising. And obviously, they did not take into account Austin's upcoming new recycling program. While top 10 green honors are really nothing new for Austin, this recent ranking provides a thorough analysis and some good sustainability clout to stand behind.
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