Scottsdale has long been recognized as an environmental leader and continually seeks ways to be more environmentally conscious. From protecting over 30,500 acres of desert to operating one of the world’s most sophisticated water recycling facilities, along with adopting and enforcing numerous green policies citywide - Scottsdale prides itself on integrating bold innovative eco-friendly concepts.

The City of Scottsdale is committed to enhancing the lives of its residents and effectively managing model conservation efforts to protect valuable resources for future generations. Read more about ongoing Sustainable Scottsdale initiatives and how you can be part of the solution.

Current Projects:

Heat Mitigation Plan

Heat remains to be one of our region’s top sustainability challenges, with far-reaching impacts on our community's health, infrastructure, environment and economic well-being. In 2020, Scottsdale partnered with Arizona State University to assess patterns of urban heat in the city Scottsdale and identify promising cool strategies. Learn more about the Cooler Scottsdale Study and the progress on Scottsdales first Heat Mitigation Plan.

Heat Mitigation Plan

Sustainability Plan

As part of our commitment to be more sustainable, build creative solutions and solve environmental challenges, the city of Scottsdale is crafting its first .

Scottsdale's Sustainability Plan

News

Right Tree, Right Place program keeps Scottsdale safe and shaded
The city of Scottsdale is partnering with SRP to remove approximately 130 trees dangerously encroaching on powerlines. Trees more suitable for the respective areas will replace those removed at a ratio of three new trees for each removed.

Identifying strategies for a cooler Scottsdale
Scottsdale City Council will discuss the development of the city’s first Heat Mitigation Plan at a council work session on Sept. 13, along with details about the Scottsdale Sustainability Plan 2022.

Scottsdale City Council approves 2022 Transportation Action Plan
The plan is focused on flexible transportation planning, implementing new technology and investing in existing infrastructure.

Every tree counts – be part of Scottsdale’s citizen tree inventory
Members of Scottsdale’s Environmental Advisory Commission want residents to learn about the benefits of trees, plants and animals by collecting data right outside their homes via an online portal and app.

Scottsdale Earth Week celebrates commitment to sustainable future
Scottsdale Earth Week begins Friday, April 22 (Earth Day), and runs through Friday, April 29 (Arbor Day), concluding with a tree-planting ceremony to celebrate Scottsdale’s 40th year as a Tree City USA community.

Earth and Arbor Day 2021

What We Do

Water

As a desert city, Scottsdale understands the value of water and continues to help local businesses and citizens understand water conservation and responsible water stewardship.

Preserve

Scottsdale is proudly home to McDowell Sonoran Preserve, a permanently protected desert habitat and largest urban preserve in the U.S., encompassing more than 30,500 acres and 200+ miles of trails.

Parks & Trees

Scottsdale has created parks, open spaces, paths and trails that are home to plants, trees and wildlife that strengthen the natural ecology and the community's quality of life.

Waste Reduction & Diversion

Scottsdale helps its citizens dispose responsibly and offers resources and information to ensure your recycling doesn't go to waste.

Energy & Fuel

Scottsdale continues to be committed to conserving and managing energy in an environmentally responsible and sustainable way to ensure the future of Scottsdale is bright.

Transportation

Scottsdale is devoted to air quality and resource conservation, helping you get where you need to go and reducing Scottsdale's carbon footprint while doing so.