Environmental Activist From Avon Honored By State

AVON, CT — A local sustainability activist and official was recently honored by the Connecticut General Assembly for his work promoting environmentally friendly policies in town.

Bernie Zahren — co-founder and chairman of the Avon Clean Energy Commission — was recognized recently for his efforts to assist the commission and with his Clean Feet Investors Sustainable Investment Funds.

"The Town of Avon is fortunate to have had the (ACEC) working to bring sustainable planning and infrastructure to Avon to reduce the town’s carbon footprint," reads a release from Clean Feet Investors. "The ACEC is responsible for recommending the Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on five municipal buildings including four schools."

Zahren and the commission assisted Avon in achieving Bronze-level certification through the Sustainable CT program.

The commission also works with Peoples Action for Clean Energy (PACE), Energize CT, and the CT Green Bank.

Zaheren and his three daughters have created the Notre Dame Endowment for
Sustainability.

According to Zaheren, he practices sustainability in his personal life, having a wind turbine, geothermal heating and air conditioning, and solar panels for his home in Avon.