About the Office of Sustainability
Overview
Established in 2008, the Office of Sustainability was created to champion forward‑thinking approaches to environmental stewardship and resilient urban living. Through leadership and strong partnerships with City departments, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and residents, the office supports the development of West Palm Beach as a healthy, equitable, and environmentally progressive community.
Mission
To improve the City’s water and energy performance, advance flood resilience, and empower the community to take meaningful actions that support long‑term environmental health.
Key Focus Areas
Our core focuses are saving water, reducing energy use, and strengthening the City’s resilience to environmental challenges commonly faced by coastal communities. We advance these goals by coordinating initiatives related to resilient infrastructure, sustainable City operations, and local ordinances, paired with community education and engagement.
Sustainability Initiatives
Single-Use Plastics
Plastic Straw and Stirrer Ban
The City of West Palm Beach is committed to environmental stewardship and reducing litter and pollution in our waterways and public spaces. Plastic straws, stirrers, and other single‑use plastics harm wildlife, impact stormwater systems, and contribute to waterfront litter.
On February 25, 2019, the City introduced Ordinance 4836-19 proposing a ban on the distribution, sale, and use of plastic straws and stirrers. The ordinance received strong support from community groups, including the Surfrider Foundation – Palm Beach County and Surface71. It passed unanimously on March 11, 2019, and took effect on October 1, 2019.
Go Beyond the Ordinance
Businesses and residents are encouraged to commit to eliminating and/or reducing the following single-use plastic items:
Pollinator Week
Pollinators—such as birds, bees, butterflies, beetles, and small mammals—are essential to healthy ecosystems. They help native plants reproduce, support biodiversity, and contribute to food production, soil protection, and carbon storage.
Pollinator Week 2026 highlights the critical relationship between pollinators and native host plants, especially those that sustain butterfly and moth larvae. Planting native species in home gardens, community spaces, and public landscapes creates vital habitat and food sources that help protect vulnerable pollinator populations.
The City of West Palm Beach encourages residents to support pollinators by choosing native plants and ground cover, and creating pollinator‑friendly spaces.
Additional Resources:
Native Plant Landscaping Guidance