NET ZERO 2050

In 2017, the Town of Westport (by RTM resolution) was one of the first municipalities in Connecticut to announce its goal of becoming Net Zero by 2050. Unlike the Paris Agreement, Westport’s RTM resolution is not singularly focused on greenhouse gas emissions, but rather a holistic view of Net Zero:

“Be it resolved that the Town of Westport shall commit to using its best efforts to continue to support climate action to meet the Paris Agreement and become a Net Zero community by the year 2050, where the community has reduced its impacts across energy, water, and waste so that they are sustainably managed, using approaches that are economically viable, of social benefit, and environmentally responsible.”

Want to learn more about Net Zero? Click here for a beginner’s guide.

 

COMMUNITY PARTNER

Sustainable Westport is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the Town of Westport in its goal to reach Net Zero before 2050 by reducing impacts across energy, water and waste using approaches that are economically viable, of social benefit, and environmentally responsible. 

The organization advises the First Selectman, town commissions, and departments on determining and setting environmental policy and decisions for the purpose of transforming Westport into a sustainable green community. Sustainable Westport also educates, connects, inspires, and supports Westport residents, businesses, and the town to adopt sustainable practices consistent with this purpose.

Visit the Sustainable Westport website for more information and resources. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook for sustainability news, events, tips, and more.

 

SUSTAINABILITY ACCOLADES

After being certified as a Bronze community in 2018, Westport was upgraded to Silver Certification status in 2021 by Sustainable CT, a statewide initiative whose mission is to “foster inclusive, resilient, and vibrant Connecticut municipalities that provide opportunities for all to thrive by: providing a menu of sustainability actions that build local economies, support equity, and respect the finite capacity of the environment; offering technical assistance to help advance sustainability initiatives; and recognizing and certifying municipalities for their achievements.”

In its application for Sustainable CT certification, Westport demonstrated significant achievements in actions in many 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.

 

SUSTAINABILITY RESOURCES & PROGRAMS

Westport Green Building Award for Achievement in Sustainable Design and Construction

The Town of Westport in partnership with Sustainable Westport co-sponsor a “Green Building Award” recognizing projects that make, or have made significant contributions to sustainability and Westport’s future as a Net Zero Community. For more information, including guidance for submissions and the application, click here.

Past Winner: 54 North Street

Past Winner: 23 Oak Ridge Park