Mansfield earned gold-level certification in Sustainable CT, a voluntary certification program to encourage inclusivity and resilience in Connecticut municipalities.
Mansfield Town Manager Ryan Aylesworth said in a press release that he hoped Mansfield would be proud of both the recognition and the sustainability efforts.
“Recognition by Sustainable CT is a significant milestone in Mansfield’s longstanding commitment to sustainability,” says Town Manager Ryan Aylesworth. “This achievement reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and community members who have consistently championed sustainable practices and bold ideas.”
According to the press release, Mansfield earned its certification by demonstrating “significant achievements in 13 sustainable impact areas ranging from inclusive community building, thriving local economies, and vibrant arts and culture to clean transportation and diverse housing.”
Mansfield was one of 12 gold certified communities out of the 67 participating. According to its certification report on the Sustainable CT website, some of Mansfield’s most influential actions to get the gold certification were increasing renewable energy in municipal buildings, incorporating sustainability into its development plans and promoting waste reduction.
Along with the gold certification, Sustainable CT designated Mansfield as climate leader on Oct. 1. Mansfield took multiple actions, including developing an open space plan and implementing a community energy campaign, to earn the designation.
Lynn Stoddard, the chair of Mansfield’s sustainability committee, expressed gratitude for the team that made the gold certification possible.
“From the very first input meeting two years ago, through all the interviews and drafts, we appreciate the leadership and the tremendous time, expertise, and dedication our town staff and volunteers put into helping Mansfield achieve Sustainable CT Gold certification,” Stoddard said in the press release.
According to Mansfield’s success report, the town raised $37,219 through the Community Match Fund, a crowdfunding grant program by Sustainable CT. Mansfield also had 16 action success stories and 45 sustainability actions completed. Its strongest category was strategic materials management.
Mansfield also completed the state’s first net-zero elementary school in 2023, which contributed to its climate leadership status.
“After more than a year of operation, the school has exceeded the net zero energy design goals and is a net producer of renewable energy,” Mansfield’s success report stated.
Nearby towns that also received the gold certification include Vernon, Glastonbury and Manchester.
Nicole Chevalier, co-chair of Sustainable CT’s Board of Directors, commended the towns for prioritizing sustainability and equity.
“The work these towns do is critical to achieving the state’s ambitious environmental and climate objectives and we are incredibly proud of them,” Chevalier said.
Michael Purcaro, co-chair of Sustainable CT’s Board of Directors, said in the press release that there was positive change happening across the state.
“By recognizing the natural environment as the foundation for the health and well being of all people, our sustainable initiatives are driving real change in towns and cities across Connecticut,” said Purcaro. “We’re seeing improved efficiency in the delivery of government services, significant cost savings and a stronger sense of community. We congratulate our award recipients and commend them for their collective work to create a more vibrant state that provides opportunities for all to thrive.”