Green Initiatives

The Village of La Grange has a commitment to enhancing energy efficiency and environmental awareness through its various purchases, projects, policies, and programs.  Since 2014, the Village has denoted green initiatives in the budget by placing a dot next to line items that have been identified by the Village as having a sustainability component.

For more information regarding "green initiatives" in the Village, please contact the Village Manager’s office at (708) 579-2313.

Composting Tips for Residents

Fall offers many opportunities to compost at home, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting healthy soils. The Environmental Quality Commission has created a series of flyers with practical tips on Composting Pumpkins, Leaves, and Food Scraps (PDF). Residents can learn more about seasonal environmentally friendly practices by visiting the Fall Tips for Living Green (PDF).

Green Initiatives

A list of "Green Initiatives" (PDF) has been developed and is periodically updated in order to help keep track of the various initiatives that the Village has been involved with over time. The list of initiatives has been organized into five primary categories: 

  1.   Vehicles
  2.   Building / Infrastructure
  3.   Village Services / Operations
  4.   Community Development / Building and Zoning
  5.   Event Promotion and Education

Reports on Green Initiatives

Greenest Region Compact 2

As recommended by the La Grange Environmental Quality Commission, the Village Board adopted a resolution (PDF) at its April 23, 2018 meeting to endorse the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Greenest Region Compact 2 (GRC2). The GRC2 provides a template for the Village to help achieve meaningful and measurable environmental sustainability objectives. La Grange is joining a number of communities in the region that are working collaboratively to advance sustainability in their communities and in concert with regional, national and global initiatives. 

SolSmart

Beginning in November, 2019, the Village began participating in a U.S. Department of Energy funded recognition program for municipalities that have taken steps to reduce barriers to solar energy.  In order to meet the requirements, the Village must complete initiatives organized into three categories - permitting, zoning and special focus.  As a result of the efforts, the Village was honored with a bronze designation through the SolSmart program in 2019.  In 2023, the Village achieved the silver designation.  Additional efforts are planned in the future.

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission periodically evaluates significant environmental initiatives and provides recommendations to the Village Board as needed.  The Environmental Quality Commission also helps advise the Village Board on conservation of natural resources, reducing waste, and managing stormwater.

Sustainability Tips for Residents

The Village of La Grange Environmental Quality Commission offers the information below to assist residents who seek to conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and mitigate climate change.