Suffield Earns Sustainable CT Certification

Information via Town of Suffield

SUFFIELD, Conn. – Suffield is among twenty-three Connecticut municipalities to be recognized this fall for achieving Sustainable CT certification. Suffield 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 2021 fall certified communities this week.

“I am so proud of the hard work and collaboration of Suffield’s municipal team which resulted in not only this certification, but also proactively prepared our town to be a more inclusive and sustainable community and ready to tackle the future’s challenges,” said Suffield First Selectman Melissa M. Mack.

In its application for Sustainable CT certification, Suffield demonstrated significant achievements in actions in twelve sustainable impact areas ranging from inclusive community building, thriving local economies, and clean and efficient energy use, to vibrant arts and culture, clean transportation and diverse housing. Suffield’s successfully completed actions included Inclusive Engagement, Communication and Education, noting the Inclusivity Speaker Series and Suffield Farmers Market; Install Efficient Exterior Lighting, detailing Suffield’s streetlight conversion to LEDs; and Recycle Additional Materials and Compost Organics highlighting mattress and electronics recycling programs at the Suffield landfill.

Project Lead and Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) Superintendent Jamie Kreller added, “This effort, which involved many town departments, demonstrates our commitment to thinking creatively to improve Suffield’s engagement and sustainable practices.”

Sustainable CT has seen strong momentum and growth as a valuable, high-impact program. One-hundred twenty-five municipalities have registered for the program, representing 86% of the state’s population. Collectively, sixty-four municipalities, 60% 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.