The Town of Trumbull is among seventeen Connecticut municipalities to be recognized this fall for achieving Sustainable CT certification. Trumbull met high standards in a broad range of sustainability accomplishments to qualify for the prestigious bronze-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 2020 fall certified communities last week.
“I am thrilled that Trumbull has achieved bronze-level certification as a sustainable community,” stated First Selectman Vicki Tesoro. “This certification acknowledges the forward-thinking work the Town has done and continues to do. It is a true team effort and I thank the members of the Sustainable Trumbull Team for all their hard work.”
In its application for Sustainable CT certification, Trumbull demonstrated significant achievements in actions in nine sustainable impact areas ranging from inclusive community building, thriving local economies, and vibrant arts and culture to clean transportation and diverse housing. Trumbull successfully completed actions including sustainable land use practices, recycling and solar initiatives, and economic assistance.
“By achieving bronze-level certification, the Town of Trumbull has demonstrated a commitment to maintaining a sustainable community,” stated Land Use Planner Rob Librandi. “We will continue to build on this success by working closely with all Town departments, boards and commissions to achieve silver certification. We will also bring other members of our community to help with our efforts including our schools, local businesses and volunteer organizations. Together we can showcase Trumbull as a model of sustainability, cooperation and success.”
Sustainable CT has seen strong momentum and growth as a valuable, high-impact program. One-hundred twelve municipalities have registered for the program, representing 80% of the state’s population. Collectively, sixty-one municipalities, over 36% 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. “They join a growing number of certified towns and cities that are demonstrating municipal practices that make our communities more inclusive, healthy, connected, and strong.”
The program is managed by the Institute for Sustainable Energy at Eastern Connecticut State University and 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 and respond to the COVID-19 crisis
Sustainable CT is independently funded, with strong support from its three founding funders: the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation, the Common Sense Fund, and the Smart Seed Fund. Additional support is provided by: the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut, Connecticut Community Foundation, Fairfield County Community Foundation, Main Street Community Foundation, and other sponsors.
Trumbull and all spring and fall 2020 certified communities will be recognized later this year at the Annual Convention of the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities in December. For more information, visit www.sustainablect.org.