MIRAMAR'S COMMITMENT TO BECOMING A “RACE TO ZERO CARBON EMISSIONS” CITY

By Mayor Wayne M. Messam

Dear Miramar residents,

It is with great enthusiasm and pride that I address you today as we embark on an ambitious journey to make Miramar a Race to Zero Carbon Emissions city. Miramar recently joined this global campaign, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to combating climate change and securing a sustainable future for our community. In this column, I want to elaborate on the reasons behind our decision, the actions we will undertake, and the substantial benefits that lie ahead for all of us.

JOINING THE RACE TO ZERO:

Miramar's decision to join the Race to Zero Carbon Emissions campaign is rooted in our determination to play an active role in mitigating climate change. This international initiative brings together cities, regions, businesses, and more, to commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. By aligning ourselves with this collective effort, we position Miramar as a leader in sustainability, demonstrating our dedication to safeguarding our environment and enhancing the quality of life for our residents.

TAKING ACTION: Miramar's Current Net Zero Initiatives

The City of Miramar in the summer of 2022, presented its Miramar Sustainable Living plan, which is the city's response to support the Race to Zero. It includes the following initiatives:

Waste Management

• Adopt-a-Street Campaign: Communities are invited to participate in keeping the city beautiful and more environmentally friendly by beautifying city streets and neighborhoods, decreasing litter and removing pollutants to protect the quality of our water.

• Anti-Litter Campaign: Miramar will install anti-litter and trash receptacles throughout the City.

• ReCollect App: The city implemented the ReCollect App, so residents may verify their trash collection days, get reminders, and print calendars.

• Waste to Energy Program: Some of Miramar's waste is converted to energy at the Wheelabrator (WIN Waste Innovations) waste-to-energy plant in Fort Lauderdale.

Waste incineration reduces the total volume of waste up to 90% and produces electricity through the incineration process.

• Recycling Program: The Public Works Department has implemented several recycling collections and educational efforts: Recycle Right Miramar water-bill inserts, as well as an educational cartoon series, "Recycle Rosie and Ron," on the dos and don'ts of recycling.

Energy & Sustainability

• Citywide Performance Contract Project: Reduce Miramar's annual electrical consumption by 20% and reduce water consumption by 1 million gallons annually.

• EV Fleet: Miramar is adding electric vehicles to the city's fleet of service vehicles, with plans and budget in place to accelerate this process as more EVs become available, particularly EV pick-up trucks.

• Building and Land Development Codes: Miramar has fast-tracked the permitting process for all sustainability-related projects.

• EV Infrastructure: The city of Miramar has developed a preliminary master EV infrastructure plan, which includes building code requirements to include EV charging on new builds that meet minimum square footage requirements.

• EV Outreach: Miramar is partnering with land developers and FPL to secure EV chargers at public locations, including shopping malls, supermarkets, and hospitals.

• Energy-Saving Tips: Energy-saving tips have been created and distributed regularly to the public on social media and Miramar’s website.

• Renewable Energy : Miramar added budget through FY2023 to expand the city's use of solar energy. Utilities and Public Works departments formed a team to review logistics for installing a large solar system at the Wastewater Reclamation Facility.

• Water: Miramar offers rebates for homes and businesses that install efficient water fixtures and toilets. Miramar's public outreach programs encourage water conservation, as well as its annual “Mayors Challenge for Water Conservation.”

• NPDES Program: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System program monitors, regulates and removes pollutants into the city’s drainage systems before it reaches the wastewater plant. This program eases the load on the wastewater plant, resulting in savings on chemicals and energy.

• Wastewater: Miramar's wastewater reclamation facility treats and reuses wastewater throughout the city for irrigation, which reduces the demand for potable water

• By committing to the Race to Zero Carbon Emissions campaign, Miramar has taken a bold step forward in ensuring a sustainable future for our city and future generations. Through our comprehensive approach, we will address various aspects of our daily lives, making significant improvements to our environment, economy, and overall well-being. Together, let's embrace this opportunity, working hand in hand to build a greener, healthier, and more resilient Miramar.

Yours in Service,

Wayne Messam