Boston City Sustainability

Boston is one of America’s oldest cities, with a rich economic and social history. As the Northeast region’s hub, Boston is home to 617,594 residents, many institutions of higher education, some of the world’s finest hospitals, and many cultural and professional sports organizations. Every year, millions of people visit Boston to take in its historic neighborhoods, attend cultural or sporting events, and conduct business.

Boston has developed a variety of partnerships, programs, and regulations to meet Mayor Menino’s bold goals for sustainability and climate action. The city is working closely with state and  federal partners to implement sustainability programs and advocate for further policy developments to assist Boston achieving a more sustainable future.

Not waiting for state or federal action alone, Boston developed a host of partnerships from the CEOlevel Boston Green Ribbon Commission to community-based organizations. The city also is developing programs and tools, from green building standards to re-engineering Boston streets for the future, to advance sustainability, leverage economic development, and improve the quality of life in Boston neighborhoods.

Boston leaders believe sustainability will bring the city many economic gains. For example, meeting energy and greenhouse gas reduction goals will produce net savings of $2 billion in energy costs for residents, businesses, and institutions by 2020. Furthermore, Bostonians will benefit from improved public health and reduced health care costs, as well as reductions in air pollution and traffic congestion and a safer, cleaner environment.