What we mean by sustainable action…
NVCOG defines sustainable action as the responsible and equitable use of resources to preserve and enhance the wellbeing of current and future generations. This definition’s most crucial components are:
- equity
- acknowledgment of limited resources
- serving the public
- mindfulness of future needs
- a dedication to continuous improvement
What does sustainable action look like in practice?
- encouraging our towns to consider sustainability when reviewing land use site plans.
- supporting alternative transportation options, to keep emissions down and encourage healthy lifestyles;
- awarding millions of dollars to revitalize contaminated properties;
- promoting waste management options that are safe and ecofriendly;
- and championing environmental justice.
Sustainable action in the Naugatuck Valley Region
Use the interactive map below to explore examples of sustainable organizations, programs, and projects in NVCOG municipalities.
Notice something missing? Contact Christine at coneill@nvcogct.gov.
Click on a municipality.
How are towns recognized for sustainable action?
Sustainable CT is a voluntary certification program to recognize thriving and resilient Connecticut municipalities. Each summer, we partner with two Sustainable CT Fellows who help our municipalities with the certification process. Click here to learn more.
Sustainability Toolkit-Coming soon!
NVCOG is developing a sustainability toolkit, in conjunction with our Regional Plan of Conservation and Development and State Plan of Conservation and Development. The toolkit will incorporate best practices for investing in renewable and sustainable energy sources, promoting equitable transportation services, and protecting the water environment. This page will be updated to include more information on the toolkit, so check back soon!
Environmental Sustainability Forums
NVCOG hosts quarterly Environmental Sustainability Forums (ESFs) to provide training and discussion spaces on important issues in our region. All forums are recorded. Below are links to past ESFs:
- Spring 2022: MS4 Compliance
- Summer 2022: Commercial Waste Solutions
- Fall 2022: Brownfields (upcoming)
If you would like to be informed about upcoming ESFs, kindly email coneill@nvcogct.gov to be added to the listserv.
Natural Environment:
- EPA Sustainability Hub: This Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) webpage is your one-stop shop for all things sustainability. Whether you’re curious about waste management, green infrastructure, environmental restoration and remediation, natural resource conservation, or wildlife protection, the EPA has educational material and case studies to expand your knowledge base.
- CIRCA & Resilient Connecticut: The Connecticut Institute for Resilience and Climate Adaptation (CIRCA) focuses on regional resilience and adaptation planning through engagement and risk assessments that inform pilot projects as well as municipal and regional scale initiatives.
Built Environment:
- UConn CLEAR: The Center for Land Use Education & Research (CLEAR) is Connecticut’s land use education center. This website provides information, education and assistance to land use decision makers, in support of balancing growth and natural resource protection.
- One branch of CLEAR, the Nonpoint Education for Municipal Officials (NEMO), focuses on MS4 guidance for towns. MS4 deals with matters of impervious surface and stormwater management.
- Recycle CT Wizard: This comprehensive search engine analyzes almost any item or material and lets you know if it can be recycled. If it cannot be recycled as part of the single-stream load, the Wizard may offer additional advice on how to dispose of it.
NVCOG’s Sustainable Plan Review Checklist: A variety of sustainability-minded features to consider when reviewing a land use site plan.
Economy:
- The American Sustainable Business Network has a useful guide called The Power of Sustainable Purchasing.
- The EPA has a section of their website dedicated to green products: Sustainable Marketplace: Greener Products and Services | US EPA
Transportation:
- Federal Transit Authority’s “Greenhouse Gas Estimator” Tool: This is a Microsoft Excel-based spreadsheet tool that allows users to estimate the partial lifecycle GHG emissions generated from and the energy used in the construction, operation, and maintenance phases of a project across select transit modes.
- Bike Walk Connecticut: This non-profit promotes active transportation, which is better for the environment, health, and quality of life.