New York State has awarded Hector and Montour Falls the Climate Smart Community certification, acknowledging their endeavors to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts. The Climate Smart Communities program endorses local governments committed to lessening greenhouse gas emissions and bolstering community resilience against climate change ramifications.
Those aspiring to join the initiative must voluntarily pledge and strategize towards the program’s objectives, such as enhancing energy security, fostering a green economy, and ensuring taxpayer savings.
According to DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos, these recognitions highlight the communities’ dedication to sustainable actions and clean energy transitions, striving to enrich the quality of life for New York residents. While Montour Falls achieved a recertification as a bronze Climate Smart Community, Hector secured its inaugural bronze certification. The state currently offers bronze and silver certifications, with plans to introduce a gold level. This certification paves the way for Montour Falls and Hector to avail state funding, vehicle fuel rebates, and other support resources.
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