Paramus Takes Step Toward Sustainability Certification

Paramus has started the process of becoming Sustainable Jersey certified, which would identify the Borough as a green community and make it eligible for certain grants.

The governing body took the first step last week when it passed a resolution declaring its intent to become certified.

Now the Borough has to assemble a green team, which Shade Tree Director Joe Sexton said would comprise other department heads, members of the governing body and perhaps Borough Administrator Joseph D'Arco. The green team will decide the course the Borough takes in attaining Sustainable Jersey certification.

Municipalities can earn points toward certification by taking certain actions, like calculating their carbon footprint, conducting energy audits of municipal buildings, or compiling a natural resource inventory. The threshold for becoming certified is 150 points.

Sexton, who is overseeing the Borough's certification, said Paramus has always been a leader in sustainable practices. The Borough adopted a forestry management plan early on, and has a biodiesel program in the Department of Public Works.

Over the next few weeks, Sexton plans to send letters to prospective members of the Paramus green team. Sexton said certification would lead to broad benefits for the Borough.

"It's in the best interest of the Borough of Paramus and the residents and the business community of the Borough of Paramus to pursue this achievement," he said.