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The Sustainable Litchfield Committee’s work has paid more dividends for the town, which this week learned that it has achieved Sustainable CT’s prestigious silver-level certification, currently the highest level of certification awarded to municipalities.
The Sustainable Litchfield Committee’s work has paid more dividends for the town, which this week learned that it has achieved Sustainable CT’s prestigious silver-level certification, currently the highest level of certification awarded to municipalities.
Litchfield and New Milford are the only two Litchfield County municipalities among the 27 municipalities statewide to gain silver certification. The Litchfield committee’s chairman, John Post, is crediting the achievement to the support and initiative of the committee’s town-wide partners.
“People have such enthusiasm and such willingness, and look what we all have accomplished so far for the town.” First Selectman Denise Raap added. “What an accomplishment! I am so proud of the work of this committee that was created just two years ago.”
In its application for Sustainable CT certification, the town demonstrated significant achievements in 11 sustainable impact areas, including inclusive community building, thriving local economies, clean and efficient energy use, vibrant arts and culture, clean transportation, and diverse housing.
“These achievements will certainly continue Litchfield’s reputation as a community that values and supports its residents, its local businesses, and its natural environment,” committee member Margaret Hunt said.
Sustainable CT is a statewide initiative that encourages town and cities to become more efficient, resilient and inclusive. One-hundred twenty-five municipalities representing 86 percent of the state’s population, have registered for the program. To date, 64 municipalities have earned Sustainable CT certification. Certification lasts three years, with submissions rigorously evaluated by independent experts and other Sustainable CT partners.
Sustainable CT is funded by 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.
Litchfield 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 sustainablect.org.
