City-Level Decoupling-Case Studies

• Divert 100% of waste from landfill and convert waste to energy;

• Recycle or beneficially reuse 100% of wastewater;

• Adopt a general plan with measurable standards for sustainable development;

• Ensure 100% of public fleet vehicles run on alternative fuels;

• Plant 100,000 new trees and replace 100% of streetlights with smart, zero-emission lighting;

• Create 100 miles of trails connecting with 400 miles of on-street bikeways.

Implementing the Green Vision

San Jose aims to add 25,000 jobs in the clean tech sector by supporting start-up and existing companies through grant support, permit assistance, networking, and offering city land and buildings for demonstration projects. Energy consumption is being reduced through partnerships with residents and organisations to measure energy use and implement efficiency measures. To receive 100% of its electricity from renewable sources, the city is promoting solar energy by supporting power purchase agreements and public-private partnerships. 166 5 million square meters of buildings will meet LEED certification standards, through San Jose’s support of innovation, raising of awareness and providing of financial incentives. 100% of waste will be diverted from landfills through better material management, recycling, and the conversion of solid and liquid waste into electricity or fuel. 100% of the city’s waste water is to be reused by connecting more users to the recycled water system. The Envision San Jose 2040 General Plan measures progress towards sustainable development. 167 The city’s entire public vehicle fleet will run on alternative fuels through the purchasing of specialised vehicles, expanding plug-in stations and alternative fuel depots, and supporting the development of energy-efficient vehicles. 100,000 new trees will be planted with the combined

Google Complex in Silicon Valley, near San Jose (Source: Sebastian Bergmann, 2011)

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