Brick 's Green Efforts Earn Sustainable Jersey Silver Certification

BRICK, NJ — Brick Township has achieved silver certification in the Sustainable Jersey program, township officials announced.

Mayor John Ducey presented certificates to all of the members of Brick's "Green Team," which is chaired by John Hyfantis and coordinates and encourages efforts throughout the township that help reduce waste, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and other environmental programs.

There are two levels of certification, bronze and silver. Brick achieved bronze status last year, which highlights the town implementing the first steps. "Silver certification means a municipality has made significant progress in a number of categories toward sustainability," according to the Sustainable Jersey website.

Sustainable Jersey is a nonprofit organization that promotes environmental and sustainability projects throughout the state; Brick is one of 45 communities, out of more than 400 participating, that have achieved silver status.

The certification makes Brick eligible to apply for grants for sustainability projects.

Assistant Municipal Planner Tara Paxton said the achievement of silver certification was a recognition of efforts of various groups and bodies throughout the township that encourage sustainability.

Programs from recreation, public works, land use, senior services, Buy In Brick, and so many more contributed to reaching that status, she said.

Certificates were presented to all of the members of the township's Green Team.

Photo by Karen Wall