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(Photograph provided by Green Newton)
As I write this, Hurricane Idalia is slamming in Florida and more hurricanes are brewing in the Atlantic. We all know that climate change is making our weather ever more extreme. But that is why we do what we do at MassEnergize: support and empower communities to make a difference in tackling the climate crisis! Thank you for your continued support and interest in our work.
As always, please reach out to let us know what else we can be doing to support you or your community on the road to a healthier planet for all!
(Photo Courtesy of Ellen Sachs Leicher at Harvard Energize)
This month we spoke to Ellen Sachs Leicher from Harvard Energize as she shared ways that MassEnergize is helping them achieve their climate goals.
Harvard launched their Climate Initiative in 2022, with the aim of making Harvard more resilient and sustainable in the face of climate change challenges. The initiative is based on their Climate Action Plan that was approved by the Town Select Board last year. Prior to 2022 a variety of committees were working on climate issues, so in an effort to coordinate activities the Town’s Energy Committee approved joining the MassEnergerize community and forming Harvard's Climate Initiative.
Harvard's Climate Initiative is now in the implementation phase of their Climate Action Plan, with 6 focus areas that have been broken down between municipal actions and residential actions. In these 6 focus areas, there are 17 climate actions featured on the Harvard Energize platform which tie back to their Climate Action Plan.
After securing a $1,500 grant, Harvard Energize is currently implementing its latest project: ‘We Are Going Green’ yard flags. Ellen Sachs Leicher talks about how it is sometimes hard to see the changes people are making with EV’s hidden in garages and heat pumps in basements. "I want people to make a difference, and I want them to show it," says Ellen.
The flags have QR codes which take you to the Harvard Energize site. If you live in Harvard and want a flag, all you have to do is sign up to the Harvard Energize site and complete two testimonials! The goal of this project was based on inspiration from one of MassEnergize’s recent Community of Practice speakers. "They talked about the social science of behavior… If you get 25% of people to do something, the other 75% will come." Harvard Energize has a target of having 200 flags put up around town and has already reached a third of that target. Neighboring towns of Acton and Groton loved the idea so much, they’re also implementing their own versions of the project!
Where else can you see Harvard Energize in action over the coming months?
Harvard Flea market - October 7th - In collaboration with Harvard’s diversity group, Arm in Arm, Harvard Energize will have a booth at the Flea Market running a competition for making culturally different chutneys and salsas with local ingredients.
A Guide to Forest Management - October 14th (rain date October 15th) - Harvard Energize will be hosting a walk on local forest trails to show why forest management is important. This will be followed by introducing land coaches in the spring, who will visit local yards and neighborhoods to talk about local and native plants, and what to do with regards to invasive species.
To find out more about Harvard Energize's upcoming events, please visit their website!
Great News! State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough) has secured $100,000 in the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget forMassEnergize! This allocation is in recognition of the valuable work that MassEnergize is doing throughout Massachusetts to empower local communities to take household-level actions against climate change.
“By providing a platform that gives us opportunities to combat climate change at a community and household level, we can make a meaningful difference by starting small and scaling up,” said State Senator Jamie Eldridge. “MassEnergize’s work is critical for our climate. I thank my colleagues for joining me in supporting this great organization.”
Watch this space for further details on our plans for this allocation and the benefits it will have for your communities.
SAVE THE DATE!
Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024
8:30AM - 3:00PM
We are excited to host the first ever MassEnergize Spring Summit 2024! Join us for a day of hands on workshops, skill building, inspiration and celebration! Practical workshops will provide you with new tools to enhance the critical work you do in your community; networking sessions will allow you to meet new peers; and speaker sessions will inspire and celebrate the amazing work being done to address the climate crisis!
Concord Ag Day is a once a year farmers’ market celebrating local agriculture, organized by the Concord Agriculture Committee to showcase Concord farms and local produce. This unique market showcases the bounty of Concord’s many farm businesses at the height of the growing season. Find more information about the event here.
It’s easy to feel powerless when thinking about climate change. Join us for a Rare Conversation with Heather White, environmental policy expert and author of 'One Green Thing: Discover Your Hidden Power to Help Save the Planet, about how individual action fits into the climate solution puzzle, and how it can also help counter climate anxiety. Register here for this event.
Climapalooza (September 16th, 6PM - 9PM - University Park Commons, Cambridge)
Join Climable for an incredible night of music and fun in Cambridge. Catch fabulous local performers and TONS of their friends at this climate action rally and benefit concert! The show kicks off at 6 pm- so bring a blanket, your dancing shoes, and a can-do attitude! Find more about the event here!
Long time Wayland residents Tony and Margie Lee will present an introductory program on climate change. They hope to give you the confidence to start conversations with friends, neighbors and relatives.
At the conclusion of this discussion, you will be invited to sign up for a 4-session climate change course “Can We Stop Climate Change?” led by the Lees on Thursdays, October 5, 12, 19 and 26, 10:00 to 11:30 AM.
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