During the MassEnergize Community Climate Leaders Conference in early April, Acton was recognized as a “community, team, or organization whose leadership has made a meaningful difference in advancing climate action at the local level.”
MassEnergize said that “through dedication, collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to their community, the town of Acton Energize Acton committee and the Acton Sustainability Department demonstrate what is possible when people work together to create real change. When we think about working together, one community comes to mind demonstrating the collaboration between its municipal staff and community based group, and that is Acton.
“Acton launched one of the earliest coaching programs, piloted neighborhood focused outreach, continued to convene webinar, home tours, and currently has embarked on multi-family outreach, and received the state designation as a Massachusetts Climate Leader and received funding to undertake a significant decarbonization project. A long time participant in our PlugIn Metrowest initiative, today we recognize Karen Root Watkins of Energize Acton, and Andrea Becerra, Acton’s sustainability director.”
Sustainability Director Andrea Becerra noted, “There was quite a large showing of Acton residents and Sustainability staff present at the MassEnergize Community Climate Leaders Conference, which seemed fitting for an award recognizing the collaboration between municipal staff and community volunteers. I think we were all moved by the recognition. So much of our climate work is accomplished in partnership with volunteers, from the Clean Energy Coaching program to Energize Acton. It’s both wonderful and necessary to work together to make meaningful progress on our Climate Action Plan.”
Acton Energy Coach and Select Board Member David Martin added, “A portion of the recognition is for Acton’s robust energy coaching program, with nine coaches who have helped hundreds of residents with unbiased answers about clean energy. We’re beginning to assist commercial clients, too.”
