All State of Maryland agencies, facilities, and programs are taking steps to support Governor O'Malley's Smart, Green and Growing initiative. Below you can find selected examples of State efforts to go green.

Conserving Energy

Reducing energy usage in State facilities helps lower consumption of energy resources while decreasing costs to the State. Today Maryland agencies are:

  • Creating a state-of-the-art energy database to monitor usage and encourage savings.
  • Implementing rooftop solar systems on five State buildings to generate 585,000 kWh annually.
  • More...

Building Greener

Integrating green building strategies into construction of State facilities maximizes economic and environmental performance, and provides a healthier work environment. Today Maryland is:

  • Building/upgrading several State office buildings to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards.
  • Participating in and regulating the Maryland Green Building Council.
  • Requiring LEED Silver certification for all new State leases.
  • More...

Landscaping Smarter

Bay Friendly Lawns -At the Maryland State House we use environmentally-sustainable organic management practices in caring for our lawn and landscape plants. More...

Improving Business Practices

By adopting smart business solutions Maryland State government is serving its citizens while reducing its impact on the natural resources. Current efforts include:

  • Green Purchasing
  • Using conference calls and internet-based meeting solutions to reduce travel to meetings.
  • Encouraging employees not to print electronic files.
  • More...

Conserving Resources

Repurposing reusable materials reduces waste and the loss of finite natural resources. Maryland State agencies are:

  • Encouraging recycling and composing at State facilities.
  • Using green janitorial products and biodegradable trash bags in State facilities.
  • More...

Traveling Smarter

Creating more efficient travel opportunities reduces traffic, congestion carbon emissions and air pollution. Maryland is now:

  • Using biodiesel fuel for the BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport, the State Highway Administration and the Maryland Department of Transportation fleets.
  • Encouraging carpooling in State vehicles and the use of public transportation.
  • More...