CARMEL- By reducing its carbon footprint and mitigating climate change, Putnam County has become certified as a Climate Change Community.
Putnam’s Climate Smart has reduced greenhouse gas emissions and increased the usage of renewable energy. Specific steps included encouraging residents to practice sustainable habits such as recycling and preserving energy.
The county also implemented several actions to become more sustainable including the installation of solar panels, the Complete Streets Policy, and implementation of energy conservation measures in county buildings.
County Executive Kevin Byrne thanked the New York State DEC Wednesday for recognizing Putnam’s efforts. He also expressed appreciation to the county’s Climate Smart Task Force for “all their hard work on obtaining this important recognition.”
Ilona Campo, the county’s Climate Smart coordinator, was also pleased with the designation. “Attaining Bronze Certification represents a significant milestone that required coordinated efforts across multiple departments, and alongside local government representatives and nonprofit professionals,” she said. “Since the re-establishment of the task force, I am honored to lead a team of talented individuals whose expertise has driven the exploration and execution of various projects that have been and can be implemented at both the municipal and county levels.”
State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar congratulated the county’s leadership. “By achieving certification as a Climate Smart Community, municipalities are promoting sustainability, increasing zero-emission transportation, and reducing pollution. These communities are critical partners supporting Governor Hochul’s ongoing efforts to reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and advance a clean energy transition that benefits all New Yorkers.”
Putnam is now one of 154 Climate Smart communities across the state.
