Binghamton, NY – Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, congratulated the City of Binghamton for winning the 2013 Environmental Quality Award. The City, which Senator Gillibrand nominated this past February, will receive the Environmental Protection Agency’s prestigious honor for their commitment and significant contributions to greening the region.
“I congratulate the City of Binghamton for their dedication to securing a cleaner New York,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Mayor Ryan and Binghamton citizens have shown a true commitment to sustainability. From improving Binghamton’s quality of life to creating new local green jobs, these environmental champions will help lead the way towards a green energy future for our city and our country.”
“Sustainability is a win all the way around, and we’ve been committed to staying on the front edge of this movement,” said Mayor Matt Ryan. “It saves money, creates jobs, conserves resources and protects the health and safety of our people and our planet. We couldn’t do it without support at the state and federal levels, and that has been growing stronger in recent years. A special thank you to Senator Gillibrand for her leadership in promoting sustainability. No issue is more critical to our communities, and we need to continue building on our efforts in the coming years.”
Leading the way in energy efficiency reform, the City of Binghamton released its Energy and Climate Action Plan in 2011 which sets a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 25% by the year 2025. The plan outlines strategies for cutting energy costs, promoting energy independence and reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the region. Last year, the installation of a 49.68 KW solar photovoltaic system at the City’s Water Treatment Plant was completed.
The City of Binghamton also educates residents on green best practices, implementing an innovative educational and outreach initiative, called the Energy Leadership Program, designed to spur demand for energy efficiency upgrades in Binghamton and the Southern Tier.
In April 2009, the City became a member of ICLEI- Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI), committed to participating in ICLEI’s Cities for Climate Protection campaign, which involves undertaking the 5 Milestone process for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In 2007, Mayor Matt Ryan signed the United States Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, pledging a reduction in the City’s greenhouse gas emissions.