JoCo Sustainability

One of Johnson County Government’s core values is stewardship – the idea that individually and collectively, we are building a better community today and for future generations. This means the county takes seriously its responsibility to protect the economic, environmental and human resources it has been given. Across county government, departments are taking the initiative to make our operations more efficient, effective and sustainable; like the old scout saying, we intend to leave the county better than we found it for generations to come.

Efforts are ongoing to improve the sustainability of our own business practices, the buildings we operate and the communities we serve. The county also offers a variety of services to help residents and businesses create sustainable practices in their own lives.

Sustainability News

County Tools and Services

Many departments in Johnson County Government provide tools and services that can help you improve the sustainability of your home or business. Check out the links below for a list of services.

Air Quality: Indoor

Many people are surprised to learn that there are very few federal, state or local regulations regarding indoor air quality (IAQ), whether it is in the home or the workplace. Although IAQ may not be regulated, we try to provide you with the information and guidance necessary on how to best proceed with indoor air problems.

Contact Phone: 913-715-6900

Learn more about Indoor Air Quality

Food Policy Council

The mission of the Johnson County Food Policy Council is to improve the health and well-being of individuals, the community and our environment through a just, equitable and sustainable food system in Johnson County.

Contact Phone: 913-477-8325

Green Business Program

Our staff can help your organization establish a recycling or composting program. Approved entities can receive up to $500 in supplies such as bins, etc. We offer technical assistance, educational tools, and training for staff. Contact us today.

Contact Phone: 913-715-6938

Learn more about the Green Business Program.

Greenhouse Gas Inventory Update

Johnson County is committed to maximizing the economic, environmental and societal benefits of its operations within the community and has undertaken a comprehensive sustainability program that addresses topics ranging from air quality and energy efficiency to recycling and water resources. As part of its commitment to operating in a more sustainable manner, the County has adopted greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets. The Johnson County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved a resolution in December 2007 establishing the following goals:

Contact Phone: 913-715-6923

Learn more about the Greenhouse Gas Inventory Update.

Household Hazardous Waste Disposal

Safely dispose of those unwanted household chemicals such as paint, motor oil, cleaners and much more. This service is a FREE service for Johnson County residents only.

Schedule Your Appointment

Johnson County K-State Research and Extension

The Johnson County branch of the K-State University Research and Extension office provide research based information on a wide range of topics including: 4H/Youth Development, Crops and Livestock, Lawn and Garden, Natural Resources and much more. They also host several classes and events each year.

Contact Phone: 913-715-7000

Free Soil Test for Johnson County Residents

Learn more about Johnson County K-State Research and Extension

Kansas City Regional Climate Action Plan

The Climate Action Plan, was developed by Climate Action KC, the Mid-America Regional Council, and hundreds of interested community member, stakeholders and decision-makers. The plan includes strategies that will help mitigate climate change by achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, and adapt to and bounce forward from the many risks climate change poses.

Learn more about the Climate Action Plan

Parks and Recreation: Natural Resources Management Plan

Johnson County Park and Recreation District (JCPRD) is committed to maintaining the health and diversity of our natural resources through active and responsive stewardship. Of the 10,000 managed by the park district, 8,700 acres are natural areas.

Contact Phone: 913-438-7275

Learn more about the Natural Resource Management Plan

Park and Recreation: Trail Guide

The JCPRD Trail Guide of hiking and biking trails in Johnson County, is available at all JCPRD facilities.

Learn more about JCPRD trails.

Recycling 101

Not sure what can and cannot go in your recycle bin, our Recycling 101 page answers that question. Find out what materials are accepted in your curbside recycle bin. For materials that aren't accepted curbside, find out other recycling options.

Contact Phone: 913-715-6936

Learn more about Recycling 101

Solar Power

Interested in adding solar power to your home or business? Find construction guidelines as well as permitting information here.

Contact Phone: 913-715-2200

Learn more about solar power.

Solid Waste Management

In Kansas, counties are responsible for solid waste planning, and in Johnson County this is done through the Johnson County Solid Waste Management Committee who develop a solid waste management plan (SWMP).