Switch Together, a group solar-buying program offered by the national nonprofit Solar United Neighbors, is now available to Clearwater residents. This program makes it more affordable to install solar panels by offering significant discounts, along with optional add-ons, such as battery storage and electric vehicle chargers.

Switch Together provides free educational webinars and in-person events to explain the process and benefits of going solar. The program also conducts a rigorous review of installer qualifications, ensuring participants receive high-quality installations from trusted professionals.

Registration is free, and there is no obligation to purchase a system. Don't miss this opportunity—register by May 28.

For more information, attend the Florida Solar 101 session April 24, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Clearwater Countryside Library.

Clearwater is developing an active transportation plan to enhance mode-of-travel options powered by human energy, such as walking, biking, and other non-motorized transportation. The plan aims to identify and implement active transportation projects throughout the city, creating a comprehensive network of walking and biking facilities.

To help shape this initiative, the city will host a community workshop April 10, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Countryside Library, at 2642 Sabal Springs Dr. Residents are encouraged to attend and contribute to the development of the plan.

Clearwater is proud to participate in the 15th Annual Wyland National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation, joining cities nationwide in promoting sustainability. From April 1–30, residents can pledge to conserve water, reduce plastic waste, and take simple actions that create a lasting impact on our community.

This year’s challenge features the Impact Insight Initiative, which helps participants understand how their conservation efforts benefit both Clearwater and the nation.

Make your pledge by clicking the button below and help Clearwater become one of the most water-wise cities in the country! Plus, by participating, you'll have a chance to win eco-friendly prizes. Join us in making a difference—every drop counts!

Keep Pinellas Beautiful is hosting a special event on Wednesday, May 7, from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Clearwater Community Sailing Center. This gathering invites tourism businesses and stakeholders to explore the Keep Pinellas Beautiful Hospitality Eco-Partnership program and share best practices in sustainability.

The event will feature networking opportunities, breakout sessions, conservation organizations, and guest speakers from:

• City of Clearwater
• Visit St. Pete Clearwater
• Amplify Clearwater
• Florida Sea Grant
• USF Hospitality & Tourism Management Program
• Keep Pinellas Beautiful

Attendees will gain fresh ideas, access free sustainability tools, and discover partnership opportunities. Refreshments will be provided.

On March 10, Clearwater began a citywide tree assessment and inventory to maintain a healthy and safe urban canopy. In collaboration with certified arborists, the Public Works Department will evaluate trees in the city’s rights-of-way, assessing their structural integrity and health. The project will start at Clearwater Beach and progress toward Old Clearwater Bay.

Each tree will be cataloged and tagged, allowing residents to check its status online. This inventory will help identify maintenance needs and address potential hazards, supporting Clearwater’s long-term tree care efforts.

Clearwater is proud to announce that we received a refund of $105,691.32 for the solar installations at Coachman Park and electric vehicle chargers at Lot 11, thanks to the IRS’s new Elective Pay (or Direct Pay) program. This groundbreaking initiative, now available to tax-exempt entities, allows the city to receive cash back for eligible renewable energy projects over the next 10 years.

Navigating the complexities of this federal program in its first year was no small task, making this achievement even more significant. A special thanks goes to our dedicated summer intern, Caitlin Allgoever, whose hard work was instrumental in securing this refund. This success highlights Clearwater’s commitment to sustainability and maximizing resources.

The recycling center at the Clearwater Sea-Blues Festival Feb. 28, at Coachman Park has been a successful initiative in encouraging proper recycling at city events. With the help of dedicated volunteers, our volunteer program and sustainability division aim to expand these efforts at future events, contributing to a cleaner and more eco-conscious Clearwater.

On March 8, the sustainability team participated in the Market Marie at Coachman Park, educating the public on climate-friendly modes of commuting. Zero- and low-emission transportation reduces harmful pollutants, improves air quality, and supports a healthier Clearwater community.

Don't miss this fantastic community event, held on the second Saturday of every month, featuring more than 130 vendors offering fresh produce, face painting, food trucks, and more.

Severe weather last fall caused the sidewalk along Countryside Boulevard to collapse, putting the road at risk of washout. To stabilize the embankments and prevent further erosion, modular baskets were installed—preserving natural habitats and water quality without relying on chemical stabilizers or imported materials.

In a sustainable and innovative approach, sand recovered from North Beach after the storm was repurposed for repairs. Thorough testing confirmed it was free of chemicals and heavy metals, reducing disposal costs and eliminating the need for additional fill material. Native flower seeds were also planted, enhancing biodiversity and beautifying the area.

The Countryside Ditch Repair Project highlights Clearwater’s commitment to resource efficiency and environmental stewardship, staying true to our motto: Bright and Beautiful, Bay to Beach.

If you have questions about the city's sustainability or environmental programs, email our sustainability team (pictured left to right): Sustainability & Environmental Division Manager Cassie Cordova, Sustainability Intern Chloe Tucker, and Sustainability Specialist Melody Yin.