Westport Honored With Sustainable CT Certification

Westport CT

16 November, 2021

5:42 AM

Description

Press release from the Town of Westport: November 4, 2021 First Selectman Jim Marpe announced today that Westport is among twenty-three Connecticut municipalities to be recognized this fall for achieving Sustainable CT certification. Westport met high standards in a broad range of sustainability accomplishments to qualify for the prestigious Silver-level certification. The highest level of certification currently offered is silver. Sustainable CT, a statewide initiative that inspires and supports communities in becoming more efficient, resilient, and inclusive, announced its 2021 fall certified communities this week. Mr. Marpe said, "I am very pleased that Westport was able to achieve the Sustainable CT Silver Level award after receiving Bronze in 2018. Through the hard work and diligence of former Operations Director Sara Harris and the Town Department Heads, who managed the complex submission that allowed the town to achieve this distinction, Westport continually demonstrates its commitment to sustainability now and into the future." "I also want to acknowledge the tireless and ongoing support from Sustainable Westport and Earthplace. With their focus on programs and forums on sustainability, such as the Zero Food Waste Challenge and home efficiency audits, these organizations are pivotal in the movement towards achieving our goal of Net Zero by 2050. Most importantly, I want to thank the residents of Westport, who have taken on the challenges, great and small, to become involved in the growing movement to protect our environment for future generations. With increased local engagement and impact, it will be possible to make our planet healthier and more sustainable." In its application for Sustainable CT certification, Westport demonstrated significant achievements in actions in many sustainable impact areas ranging from inclusive community building, thriving local economies, and clean and efficient energy use, to vibrant arts and culture, clean transportation and diverse housing. Sustainable CT has seen strong momentum and growth as a valuable, high-impact program. One-hundred twenty-five municipalities have registered for the program, representing 86% of the state's population. Collectively, sixty-four municipalities, 60% of the state's communities, have earned Sustainable CT certification. Certification lasts for 3 years, with submissions rigorously evaluated by independent experts and other Sustainable CT partners. "Congratulations to our newest Sustainable CT certified communities," said Lynn Stoddard, Executive Director of the program. "We are inspired by the leadership and collaboration of elected officials, staff and residents to make Connecticut communities more inclusive, healthy, connected, and strong." The program includes actions that help towns and cities build community connection, social equity, and long-term resilience. The program's action roadmap and support tools are especially relevant as towns seek practices and resources to promote racial justice, respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, and address climate change. Sustainable CT is independently funded, with strong support from its three founding funders: the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation, the Smart Seed Fund, and the Common Sense Fund. Additional support is provided by the Connecticut Green Bank and a growing number of community foundations and other sponsors. Westport and all 2021 certified communities will be recognized later this month at the Annual Convention of the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities. For more information, visit www.sustainablect.org. This press release was produced by the Town of Westport. The views expressed here are the author's own.