Submitted by Sustainable CT
(October 2, 2025) — The Town of Haddam has been awarded Silver Certification from Sustainable CT, a statewide program that supports sustainability best practices in Connecticut municipalities. The award follows the town’s Bronze certification award, which was presented last year, and marks a continuing effort by the members of the Haddam Sustainability Committee, especially the work of Linda Talbott and Helen Hastings. Silver Certification reflects advanced initiatives in sustainable practices and community engagement. This achievement highlights a proactive approach to sustainability and an extraordinary commitment to equity.
Sustainable CT announced a record total of thirty-six awards: twenty-eight municipal certifications and eight Climate Leader designations.
In addition to Haddam, the other Silver Certified Municipalities are:
- Bridgeport
- Coventry
- Darien
- Madison
- Marlborough
- Ridgefield
- Rocky Hill
- Southbury
- Stamford
- Windham
Gold Certified Municipalities are as follows:
- East Haddam
- Hamden
- Manchester
- Mansfield
- Norwalk
- Vernon
The six communities listed above achieved the program’s highest honor, demonstrating exceptional leadership and innovation. Their comprehensive sustainability strategies serve as models for other towns and cities across the state.
Bronze Certified Municipalities are as follows:
- Andover
- Beacon Falls
- Cheshire
- Essex
- Guilford
- Roxbury
- Torrington
- Waterford
- West Haven
- Windsor
- Woodbridge
Bronze certification celebrates significant achievements across a range of sustainability actions, including environmental stewardship, public health, and social equity. Their Bronze certification is a testament to their dedication and collaborative efforts towards creating vibrant and sustainable communities.
Climate Leader Designees are as follows:
- East Haddam
- Hamden
- Manchester
- Mansfield
- Middletown
- Norwalk
- Pomfret
- Vernon
The Climate Leader designation is reserved for municipalities making notable progress in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening climate resilience. These eight municipalities have set the bar for climate action in Connecticut.
“We’ve had a remarkable Fall,” said Jessica LeClair, executive director of Sustainable CT. “This cycle resulted in a record number of awards, underscoring the creativity and dedication of our communities. We’re especially proud that some of Connecticut’s smallest and largest communities earned certification. The leadership demonstrated by our awardees ensures that Connecticut will continue to grow as a healthier, more resilient, and more vibrant place to live, work, and visit.”
Sustainable CT certifications are awarded based on municipalities completing a broad range of sustainability measures—covering everything from inclusive community engagement and local economic development to arts, culture, and environmental health. To achieve certification, municipalities must show measurable progress in twelve impact areas. The Climate Leader designation recognizes towns that commit to ongoing greenhouse gas reductions and climate adaptation efforts.
Certifications are valid for three years, during which municipalities can continue to expand their initiatives. Sustainable CT provides a detailed framework and support for municipalities striving to enhance their sustainability and community well-being. All of the certified communities will be celebrated at Sustainable CT’s 2025 Awards Celebration on October 28, 2025 at Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam.
