Lake County Goes Green

Like so many cities and counties across the country, Lake County is doing its part to help the environment.

The county is asking residents to share their stories about how they reduce their carbon footprint on its website and become part of its Green Team.'

The website also shows how and where Lake County residents can recycle.

Here are some of the ways the county is going green, according to its website:

• Using energy efficient lighting systems and controls, toilets and faucets in new facilities, and digitally controlled heating/cooling systems and best management practices in lawn maintenance
• Enforcing development ordinances to protect natural resources, reduce pollution, save energy and minimize waste
• Using green infrastructure in watershed projects and teaching residents how to use stormwater best management practices in subdivision drainage systems
• Encouraging recycling across County departments
• Providing E-Government (on-line) services resulting in less paper and less travel
• Replacing traffic signals with energy-efficient LED systems
• Using eco-friendly alternative to road salt called Geo-Melt, which is made from sugar beets
• Using green products and vendors when purchasing goods and services