Rock Island's Green Team is an innovative municipal effort to bring all City departments together to figure out ways to can operate in a more efficient and environmentally responsible manner. The team "thinks green" for City operations that may afford an opportunity for saving taxpayer dollars through reduced utility charges, and for exploring new opportunities for economic growth. The City Manager created the Green Team which consists of volunteers from each City department who have an interest or passion to create a more sustainable environment. The mission is to create a healthier, safer city that encourages and implements sustainable growth and maintenance of the community.

The Green Team is working to make Rock Island a leader in environmental solutions and is currently organized in the following subcommittees:

• Education, Outreach and Communications
  
• Waste Management
  
• Energy
  
• Budget and Grants
  
• Sustainable Development
  
• Environmental Management System
  
  

The Green Team goals for December 2008 to March 2010 are:

1. Analyze alternate energy sources and recommend policy.
   
2. LEED certification for new or expanded City-owned buildings.
   
3. Reduce carbon footprint to 7% below 1990 levels by 2012.
   
4. Develop green purchasing policies.
   
5. Reduce City energy consumption.
   
6. Employee education to increase green living at home and at work.