General Services Division of Sustainability

new building with sustainability features & extensive landscaping

The Division of Sustainability integrates sustainable practices throughout the department’s projects and operations with the goal to reduce energy, waste, carbon and greenhouse gas emissions while also educating Metro employees and the Nashville community about sustainability. Division staff is responsible for leading innovative, green building strategies and practices, which include the use of green materials in facility projects and operations, maintenance of indoor air quality, energy management, and construction project sustainable site development.

The Division is also responsible for Metro-wide energy management efforts including the integration of energy efficiency and renewable energy use. To support energy reduction, the Division of Sustainability supports the implementation of green building energy options (including energy conservation materials and methods) in new construction, rehabilitation, retrofits, and re-commissioning to ensure energy compliance plans review in all projects.

Center of Energy Responsibility interior with screens and computerized monitoring equipment

The division’s management operates in the Center of Responsible Energy (The CORE), which monitors building operations systems, solar electricity production, electric charging stations, utility consumption, and any associated major equipment operation and building automation in the Department of General Services’ buildings.

Socket, Nashville's Sustainability Outlet

Socket is the interactive, sustainability education program of the Nashville Metro’s Department of General Services. Socket educates Metro employees and the general Nashville community about sustainability.

With live energy feeds, educational videos and games, as well as sustainable living tips for the community, Socket is creating awareness, changing behavior and engaging the people of Nashville to help build a sustainable city for generations to come.

The program's dog mascot, Socket, visits events to encourage and spread the word about sustainability.

Visit Socket, Nashville's Sustainability Outlet