Pippa Bell Ader is a co-leader of Sustainable Westport’s Zero Food Waste Challenge. She is a frequent contributor to “06880,” on environmental issues.
Today’s piece is not one she wanted to write. She says:
What do the Connecticut towns of Bristol, Fairfield, Glastonbury, Old Saybrook and West Hartford have that Westport doesn’t?
They all have gold certification from Sustainable CT. Certification recognizes sustainability best practices in Connecticut municipalities.
Westport achieved Bronze in 2018 (the first year certification was awarded), and Silver in 2021.
But in 2023, when it was time to start recertification (good for 3 years), our town administration chose not to.
Our Silver Certification has expired. Westport has been set aside in our pursuit of higher sustainability standards for our community.
As someone who devoted time and energy to Westport’s previous 2 certification processes, I was deeply disappointed by the town’s decision. This is not the Westport I know and love.
The Westport I know is a climate leader, as evidenced by our town’s decision to use best efforts to create a Net Zero Community by 2050. Without stronger advocacy by the town administration, I fear this resolution will become meaningless.
Yes, achieving Sustainable CT certification is a lot of work. But the certification process can serve as a guide and impetus for the town.
The 13 action areas focuses on the most impactful measures and steps a municipality can take towards sustainability, from ensuring well-managed natural resources and installing renewable and efficient energy infrastructure, to promoting the local economy, resilience and equity .
Composting is one key element of sustainability. (Photo/Scott Smith)
Westport is already doing a lot of good work. But there is more we need to do if we want to ensure a sustainable Westport, and honor our town resolution. Right now we are far from using our best efforts.
Let’s recommit to our goals of becoming a Net Zero community, and diligently work towards Gold Certification.
Even if we do not meet all the requirements for Gold Certification, we can significantly move the needle towards improved sustainability.
Non-profit groups like Sustainable Westport can’t do it alone. The town must be a partner. Certification requires town administrative leadership, and support and involvement by residents, organizations and businesses.
Westport must not be content to watch from the sidelines as other towns surpass us. The Westport we love is a leader, not a non-participator.
To see the comprehensive list of the actions Westport can take towards certification – and in many cases have already completed – click here.
It’s time to get in the game. Let our town leaders know that you want Westport on a level playing field with the other Connecticut Gold Certified towns.
Let’s go for gold!
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