Maricopa County has a current population approaching four million and long-term projections showing the population nearly doubling again in less than 40 years, so it's clear that strategies to help maintain a vibrant quality of life will be even more important in the future. An important part of these strategies will be maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment. Recognizing the relationship between a healthy environment and the County’s long-term success, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors directed County departments to prepare and implement a long-term strategy whereby the County will reduce its carbon footprint, help save money, and enhance the region’s environment. Several months of collaboration and coordination between its departments and community stakeholders has resulted in a new and innovative plan known as the Maricopa County Green Government program.