Submitted by Sustainable CT
(May 21, 2024) — Sustainable CT, a voluntary certification program to recognize thriving and resilient Connecticut municipalities, is proud to announce the certification achievements of eleven towns, including Haddam, for their exceptional commitment to sustainability.
Through the efforts of the Haddam Sustainability Committee and the Town Planner, Haddam has received a Bronze certification, along with Barkhamsted, Colchester, Durham, Ellington, Groton, Marlborough and Thomaston.
Haddam and the other seven towns have demonstrated 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 toward creating vibrant and sustainable communities.
In addition to the towns achieving Bronze certification, Sustainable CT also recognized Old Saybrook for Gold certification, its highest honor. Old Saybrook has showcased extraordinary leadership and innovation in sustainability. Their Gold certification recognizes comprehensive and effective sustainability strategies that serve as a model for other municipalities. It has also been designated a Climate Leader.
East Haddam has been awarded Silver Certification, reflecting the town’s advanced initiatives in sustainable practices and community engagement. This achievement highlights their proactive approach to sustainability.
In addition to Old Saybrook, Branford also was awarded a Climate Leader Designation, which is presented to municipalities that demonstrate outstanding leadership in addressing climate change through reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing climate resilience strategies. Both Branford and Old Saybrook have set a high standard for climate action and serve as exemplary leaders in the state.
“We are thrilled to celebrate these towns for their impressive achievements,” said Lynn Stoddard, executive director of Sustainable CT. “Their certifications and climate leadership exemplify the dedication and innovative spirit that are essential for building a sustainable future. We congratulate each community for their hard work and commitment to making Connecticut a better place to live, work and visit. And we are particularly proud of Old Saybrook for their outstanding work in achieving Gold certification, with the highest point total in our program’s history.”
Sustainable CT certifications are awarded based on the completion of a broad range of sustainability actions, from community building and thriving local economies to vibrant arts and culture and environmental stewardship. Municipalities must demonstrate significant achievements across twelve impact areas to qualify for certification.
Certification is effective for three years, during which time the towns can continue to implement and build upon their sustainability initiatives. Sustainable CT provides a detailed framework and support for municipalities striving to enhance their sustainability and community well-being.
All these towns will be recognized at Sustainable CT’s “Spring into Summer 2024” event on June 11, 2024 at Wickham Park in Manchester. The official annual awards ceremony for these and other towns that earn certification and Climate Leader designation during 2024 will be held in the Fall.
For more information about Sustainable CT and the certification process, please visit sustainablect.org.
Sustainable CT is independently funded, with strong multi-year support from the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation, Hampshire Foundation, Common Sense Fund, Connecticut Green Bank, and the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut.
