BRATTLEBORO — In response to your recent editorial, I would like to inform the public about the many ways that Brattleboro's municipal government and business communities have been working over the past ten years to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability.
In 2002, Brattleboro joined the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign, an international network of cities and towns working to reduce carbon emissions, sponsored by ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability.
In 2003, the Selectboard approved a Climate Action Plan (available at www.brattleboro.org) that set emissions reduction goals and outlined the means for achieving those goals. Out of 35 measures in the plan, more than half have been implemented or expanded upon, and the Town has achieved its initial reduction goals. The plan is currently being updated.
In 2008, the Town and Brattleboro School District completed an energy-efficiency project in 15 municipal and school buildings, which significantly reduced energy use. Brattleboro Climate Protection, a nonprofit organization that works closely with the Town to achieve sustainability goals, has organized numerous workshops and programs for local businesses, landlords, and homeowners to reduce energy use while promoting renewable energy sources.
The Brattleboro Energy Committee (formed in 2009 and recently expanded to 10 members) is working hard on many fronts to promote energy efficiency, renewables, and transportation alternatives while reducing carbon emissions.
Brattleboro citizens can take pride in the fact that their town is a leader in promoting sustainability, and is an example for other towns in the state and region. For more information, contact me at 251-8135 or pcameron@brattleboro.org.