Environmental Sustainability

Resource conscious, green, environmental resource provider; environment sustainability; resiliency in the ecosystem; sustainable, safe, accessible, and appropriately developed public open space; resilient; compatibility between natural and built environments

The Columbia community was founded on and continues to prioritize environmental stewardship, resource conservation, and the preservation of green space. The Environmental Sustainability Focus Area advances CA’s leadership in protecting local ecosystems, climate change mitigation, watershed management, and promoting the efficient use of natural resources.  Preserving and enhancing the quality of our environment provides important long-term benefits for our community. Clean air and water, vibrant natural ecosystems, and a stable climate are fundamental to human health and well-being. The overall goal of this focus area is to provide exceptional environmental stewardship within CA’s operations and to engage the broader Columbia community in this mission.

This includes enhancement and preservation of native trees and other vegetation, watershed management (streams, ponds, and lakes), wildlife management, and invasive species control.

Advancing high performance and sustainable facilities, and clean energy infrastructure.

This includes integrating environmental sustainability principles in open space maintenance, equipment and vehicle fleet maintenance, energy supply, and general operating practices as well as community engagement programs.