DEC Announces City of Geneva is New York's 18th Certified Climate Smart Community
The Geneva's vibrant farmer's market (above) is just one example of how the city earned points toward CSC Certification.
City of Geneva Recognized as Model Municipality for Actions to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Build Climate Resiliency
Supports Governor Cuomo's Goal to Reduce Statewide Emissions 40 Percent by 2030
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today recognized the city of Geneva as New York's 18th local government to be designated a Certified Climate Smart Community.
DEC Commissioner Basil Seggos said "Geneva's achievement of Climate Smart Communities certification is an expression of its commitment to clean energy and responsible stewardship of its historic character and lakeside beauty. I applaud Geneva for its accomplishments in reducing energy use in city operations and creating a more sustainable community."
The city of Geneva earned certification points in nearly all 10 Climate Smart Communities Pledge Elements, illustrating a well-rounded climate action strategy that embraces both mitigation and adaptation. As part of its ongoing efforts to become a sustainable community, the city of Geneva included being a Certified Climate Smart Community in its Comprehensive Plan and created a team to implement this goal in 2015.
The city will receive two Certified Climate Smart Community signs highlighting its achievement.
In particular, the city of Geneva has focused on improvements in the efficiency of its operations that have reduced greenhouse gas emissions and resulted in cost savings. The city conducted detailed energy audits of all its buildings, and Geneva has saved thousands of dollars through use of an energy management system and upgrades to interior lighting and air conditioning units. As part of switching to clean sources of power, Geneva purchased Green-E certified renewable energy credits (RECs) to offset 100 percent of its electricity use in municipal facilities.
Geneva has also embraced strategies that reduce emissions from the community and make the city more resilient. The city participates in the Energize NY finance program for eligible commercially owned buildings to undertake major energy upgrades and renewable energy projects. Geneva has also invested in the local farmers market, brownfield remediation, and rain gardens for stormwater management.
Alicia Barton, President and CEO of NYSERDA said, "Congratulations to the city of Geneva for its commitment to fighting climate change and ensuring our state's environmental well-being for generations to come. As a Climate Smart Community, the city serves as a model for other communities in supporting Governor Cuomo's nation-leading clean energy goals through comprehensive strategies that offer cost savings while reducing greenhouse gas emissions."
Ron Alcock, Mayor of the city of Geneva said "The City of Geneva appreciated the checklist of actions to help focus our efforts in becoming a more sustainable community. The CSC process was very useful to help us achieve this goal and continue our work being stewards of the environment and our natural setting in Geneva."
Launched in 2014, the Climate Smart Communities Certification Program recognizes local governments that have taken action to reduce emissions and protect their communities from a changing climate. The 18 Certified Climate Smart Communities represent New York's foremost leaders in local climate action.
To learn more, visit the Climate Smart Communities program webpage.