Celebrate Earth Day

Celebrating Earth Day

Happy Earth Day! On this day each year, we celebrate our connection to the planet. Here in Wakefield, we are making strides toward sustainability thanks to the efforts of concerned citizens, businesses, grassroots organizations and town government.

Our accomplishments include: a partnership between the Great American Rain Barrel Company and our DPW to offer repurposed rain barrels at a reduced cost to all Wakefield households that order by May 9th; the entrance of Black Earth Composting to the Wakefield market, offering weekly compost pickups at a price that will decrease as more residents enroll; schools and youth groups engaging our young people in community gardens and sustainability projects; the near elimination of single-use plastic bags that is reducing litter as well as toxins from incineration; a Farmers Market that continues to thrive as it enters is 2nd decade; merchants promoting a walk, ride, bus to shop day this Saturday; and recognition from regional environmental organizations of Wakefield’s potential to promote cost-effective energy efficiency and renewable energy programs.

We also have much to look forward to on this Earth day, including: a revitalized Rail Trail effort that will offer a safe and healthy way for people of all ages and abilities to recreate; an Envision Wakefield effort that has made pedestrian, cycling and public transportation access a central marker of success; and an opportunity to rethink how, when and where we recycle.

Of course, sustainability challenges remain. Climate, water and waste remain urgent issues that must be addressed at the local level. Wakefield’s recently established Environmental Sustainability Committee recognizes the need for long-term, cohesive vision that balances action and awareness. The Committee is comprised of residents Rob Darnell, Robin Greenberg, Mary Hajjar, and Myra Sessions, each appointed to three-year volunteer terms, as well as representatives from the Town Council, School Committee, WMGLD Commission and DPW. The Committee met for the first time earlier this month and is already engaged in securing electric vehicle chargers, planning community events and supporting a town-wide greenhouse gas inventory. The next meeting is Thursday, May 9th and the public is always welcome.

Today is Earth Day. Tomorrow is Election Day. While this is a coincidence of the calendar, what is not a coincidence is that the people we elect tomorrow will set the tone for how our town moves forward with sustainability. Please take the time to educate yourself on the candidates and, most importantly, please vote tomorrow.

Julie Smith-Galvin, Wakefield Town Councilor

Councilor.Galvin@wakefield.ma.us