Save Money, Save the Planet: City Sustainability Tips

Join in the Efforts for a Sustainable Future

September is a month filled with change and opportunity. It marks the start of autumn, the beginning of the academic year for local schools, and it's also a time when our community comes together to work towards a more sustainable and resilient future. There are several events and initiatives happening this month that offer ways to get involved and make a difference.

California Coastal Cleanup Day 'Trashure Hunt'

One of the most exciting events this month is the California Coastal Cleanup Day "Trashure Hunt" on Saturday, September 20. This event turns cleanup into a fun scavenger hunt where special "trash" items will be hidden at various locations across the state. If you find one of these items, you can redeem it for valuable prizes such as $100 gift cards for Habit Burger or DoorDash, Giants game tickets, and more.

In Alameda, cleanup sites include the Robert Crown Regional Shoreline at Eighth Street and Otis Drive. Registration is required online, and youth under 18 must have a signed permission form from a parent or legal guardian. Those under 13 need an adult present. Another location is the Alameda Community Sailing Center at 190 Central Avenue, open from 9 a.m. to noon. You can just show up or pre-register via email at Info@sailalameda.org.

Participants should wear weather-appropriate clothing, use sun protection, and bring a reusable water bottle. All other supplies will be provided. At the end of the event, all trash will be collected by Park District staff.

If you can't make the event on September 20, there are other options. Join CASA, Mission Blue San Francisco Bay Hope Spot, and DOER Marine for monthly coastal cleanups at Sea Plane Lagoon Promenade on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon. Check the CASA Facebook page for updates, as the event may be canceled if it rains.

Alameda Sea Level Rise Planning Fair

Another important event is the Alameda Sea Level Rise Planning Fair on Saturday, September 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the REAP Climate Center, 2133 Tynan Avenue. This free open-house style event invites residents to share their ideas, concerns, and hopes for the future of the waterfront. Attendees can learn about local risks, explore climate adaptation solutions, and participate in hands-on exhibits and creative stations to share their vision.

Childcare and interpretation will be available, and snacks will be provided. RSVP online to secure your spot.

Curbside EV Chargers Coming to Alameda

The City of Alameda is taking a significant step towards sustainability with the installation of public curbside EV chargers. Partnering with It’s Electric, this initiative aims to expand access to EV charging across the island. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the first installed chargers with the Alameda Housing Authority (AHA) will take place on Monday, September 22, at 11 a.m. at 2477 Eagle Avenue.

To use an It’s Electric charger, download the official app and request a cable. Drivers will receive a personal cable at no cost. Cable distribution by It’s Electric will begin this month in advance of the chargers going live. Property owners can sign up on the wait list to host a charger at their home, with no cost to the owner and a portion of charging revenue shared back.

Save Thousands on Your EV Purchase

Don’t miss the chance to save thousands on your EV purchase. The $7,500 federal EV tax credit will expire on September 30. This month, visit Ride and Drive Clean to learn about their Discount Campaigns for new and used EVs. A webinar on Wednesday, September 17, at 6:30 p.m., provides more information.

Even if you can't act by September 30, the Alameda Municipal Power (AMP) rebate for a used EV is still available.

Take Advantage of Solar Discounts

Every fall, Bay Area SunShares offers discounts on turnkey solar installations and home battery storage. This fall, get connected with pre-vetted installers for a limited-time discount on home solar and battery storage. Sign up for the SunShares discount before November 15.

Join a free webinar on Zoom to learn more about the program and meet the pre-vetted installers:

• Monday, September 29, 6 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 15, noon
• Thursday, November 6, 6 p.m.

These events and initiatives highlight the importance of community involvement in creating a sustainable future. Whether through cleaning up our coastlines, planning for sea level rise, or adopting electric vehicles, every effort counts.