Westchester County is making it easier for local communities to copy what already works.

The county has launched a free online Green Initiatives Repository, a searchable database of about 70 environmental programs already in use across Westchester. The idea is simple: instead of every town starting from scratch, officials in places like Bronxville, Scarsdale and Eastchester can see what neighboring communities are doing—and adapt those ideas locally.

The new resource includes programs focused on recycling, composting, clean energy, electric vehicles and sustainability. According to the county, it's the first database of its kind in Westchester and features contributions from municipalities across the county.

The launch coincides with a new episode of the county's Westchester, Explained podcast, where Director of Energy Conservation and Sustainability Pete McCartt discusses the county's environmental goals and practical ways residents can reduce waste and save energy at home.

The county says the effort builds on years of progress. Since 2005, Westchester has reduced its waste stream by 27%, recycling rates have remained above 50%, and its residential food-scrap recycling program now diverts more than 1,100 tons of material each year. The long-term goal is to reach New York's target of diverting 85% of waste from landfills by 2050.

County officials say one of the biggest challenges isn't creating new programs—it's making sure residents and local governments know what resources already exist. The new database is designed to close that gap by giving communities a place to share ideas that have already been tested elsewhere in Westchester.

The Green Initiatives Repository is available free through Westchester County, and the latest Westchester, Explained podcast can be streamed on the county's website.