UPDATE: Salt Lake County has officially launched a bold new initiative named **’Green Vision’**, aimed at enhancing sustainability efforts across various county departments. This urgent announcement came during the inaugural **Sustainability Achievement Awards** ceremony held on **Tuesday, October 24, 2023**.
Mayor **Jenny Wilson** presented **10 awards** to recognize county divisions that have excelled in sustainability and energy conservation. “It’s not the first time Salt Lake County has done work in this space. It’s the first time we’ve said ‘thank you,'” Wilson emphasized, highlighting the importance of gratitude and collaboration in driving meaningful change.
The **Green Vision** initiative seeks to consolidate and amplify these cross-departmental efforts, underscoring the county’s commitment to environmental stewardship and financial responsibility. “We have a value of saving money for our taxpayers and also doing what’s right for the environment,” Wilson stated. She pointed out the pressing environmental challenges facing the region, including the **shrinking Great Salt Lake** and the need for improved air quality.
Among the notable recognitions, the **Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office**, along with five other agencies, received the **Achievement in Land** award for their participation in the **’Flip the Strip’** program. This initiative successfully transformed **160,930 square feet** of traditional turf into water-efficient landscaping, significantly reducing water consumption and bolstering the county’s drought resilience plans.
Wilson addressed the urgency of responsible water use, sharing her experiences with community feedback regarding wasteful practices. “People saying, ‘Hey, county, if you’re going to talk the talk, walk the walk,'” she recalled, reaffirming the county’s commitment to lead by example.
The ceremony also recognized **Salt Lake County Arts and Culture** with the **Achievement in Water** award for its contributions to conservation efforts. These awards not only celebrate individual agency achievements but also serve as a catalyst for future collaborative sustainability projects throughout the county.
As Salt Lake County embarks on this ambitious journey with the **Green Vision** initiative, residents and stakeholders are encouraged to actively participate in ongoing sustainability efforts. The next steps include a series of community engagement events aimed at further educating the public about sustainable practices and encouraging local involvement.
Stay tuned for more updates on Salt Lake County’s environmental initiatives and how they aim to create a sustainable future for all residents.
