Green

A green St. Louis region will protect and enhance its natural systems while improving the performance of its water supply, stormwater, and wastewater infrastructure. Green strategies create networks for natural habitat, recreation, access to nature, flood mitigation, and water and air quality improvement.

Residents in communities across the region desire clean air, water, and access to open space and parks for recreation and enjoyment. They also expressed concern about flooding, soil erosion, and the increasing costs of sewer services. The Regional Water Infrastructure Assessment and Pilot Study process also show that water resource needs and costs will increase significantly in the coming decades as sewer districts and cities in the region replace obsolete infrastructure and improve water quality.

A healthy and well-functioning natural environment is critical to a strong economy and citizen quality of life. Investments in parks and green spaces can benefit communities. OneSTL partners will pursue strategies and policies for blue and green infrastructure investments that will save money for both governments and citizens while also providing enhanced water quality and reduced flood risk.

Indicator Definition Desired Trend Baseline Current

Developed Land per Capita

Number of developed acres per capita

Down 2006

0.255
acres

2016

0.266
acres

Air Quality

Average number of days per year the EPA Air Quality Index exceeds 100 for ozone (unhealthy for sensitive groups)

Down 2009-
2011

30.3
days

2020-
2022

12.3
days

Rainscaping

Acres of land treated for stormwater overflow using water quality best management practices

Up 2010

578
acres

2022

11,803
acres

Tree Cities

Percent of municipalities that are certified by Tree City USA

Up 2010

20.4%

2021

29.5%

Tree Canopy

Percent of land with tree canopy cover

Up 2010/
2012

39.0%

-

Watershed Plans

Number of watersheds with a plan or active organization

Up 2010

8

2021

31

Water Quality

Rivers and streams impaired (polluted), in miles

Down 2012

709.5

2015

711.9

Sustainable Codes

Percent of local governments that have an energy conservation code and/or a green construction code

Up 2013

86.8%

2022

87.0%

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Total metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO­2e) emissions per capita

Down 2010

21.10
MTCO2e

2015

19.20
MTCO2e