Ulster named ‘Climate Smart Community’
Ulster County has been designated the state’s ninth “Climate Smart Community.”
The county was presented with a bronze-level certification on Sept. 17. Only two other communities statewide have been bronze-level certified.
In addition to reducing energy use, Ulster County is purchasing renewable energy credits to offset the greenhouse gas emissions associated with electricity use and is taking a comprehensive approach to reducing energy use and emissions associated with transportation.
Initiatives include a vehicle-efficiency policy, adding advanced vehicles to the county fleet, supporting low-emission public transit and installing nine charging stations for electric vehicles.
The county Legislature adopted a Climate Smart Community pledge in 2011. Eight local governments in the county currently participate in the program, including the city of Kingston.