10 U.S. cities are stepping up to reduce energy waste by promoting green building designs and energy-efficient practices.

Residential and commercial buildings are the single largest user of energy in the United States, consuming 40% of total energy use. Total energy use can soar to as high at 75% in major cities.

The City Energy Project is a joint project with the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and the Institute for Market Transformation (IMT) to help “create healthier and more prosperous American cities by improving the energy efficiency of buildings.”  

Participating cites will work with the NRDC and the IMT to build energy-efficient buildings and upgrade existing ones.

The project is funded by former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s foundation and other charitable groups. NRDC estimates the proposed emission reductions would compare to removing over 1 million cars off the road and save home and business owners over $1 billion over a year.

Here is the list of the 10 City Energy Project cities and the mayors leading the way:

1. Atlanta: Mayor Kasim Reed
2. Boston: Mayor Martin J. Walsh
3. Chicago: Mayor Rahm Emanuel
4. Denver: Mayor Michael B. Hancock
5. Houston: Mayor Annise Parker
6. Kansas City, MO: Mayor Sly James
7. Los Angeles: Mayor Eric Garcetti
8. Orlando: Mayor Buddy Dyer
9. Philadelphia: Mayor Michael A. Nutter
10. Salt Lake City: Mayor Ralph Becker

Written by JESSICA ROBERTS