Putnam Recognized For Work To Mitigate Climate Change

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — Aided by the re-established Putnam County Climate Smart Task Force, the county has taken several actions to reduce its carbon footprint and mitigate climate change — with the result that New York State’s Department of Environmental Conservation has certified Putnam as a Bronze Level Climate Smart Community.

"Putnam County remains one of the most beautiful places to live, work and raise a family. It’s important we continue to do our level best to protect its natural beauty and environment for not only this generation, but for those yet to come,” said County Executive Kevin Byrne. “We’ve already taken numerous steps to promote the use of clean energy and reduce our own carbon footprint in our daily operations and expenditures, and in doing so seized financial savings as well. I appreciate the NYSDEC for the recognition of Putnam County’s efforts, and I thank our Climate Smart Task Force for all their hard work on obtaining this important recognition.”

Byrne re-established the county's Climate Change Task Force in 2023.

Amongst its many efforts, the Climate Smart Putnam program has reduced greenhouse gas emissions and increased the usage of renewable energy, officials said. Specific steps included encouraging residents to practice sustainable habits such as recycling and preserving energy. The county has also taken several actions to become more sustainable including, but not limited to, solar panels installations, the Complete Streets Policy, and implementation of energy conservation measures (ECMs) in county buildings.

“Achieving Bronze Level Climate Smart Community status is a testament to Putnam County’s dedication to environmental stewardship and sustainability,” said Amy Sayegh, Deputy Chair of the County Legislature. “This milestone is the result of hard work and shared commitment to preserving our natural resources and ensuring a healthier, more sustainable future, while also saving taxpayer dollars with more energy efficient facilities. I’m proud of the strides we’ve made and look forward to continuing our work.”

Putnam County is among 154 other Climate Smart communities in New York State.

“These exceptional communities are helping DEC celebrate the 10th anniversary of the State’s Climate Smart Certification program by demonstrating sustained and robust commitment to local climate action,” NYSDEC Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said. “By achieving certification as a Climate Smart Community, municipalities are promoting sustainability, increasing zero-emission transportation, and reducing pollution. These communities are critical partners supporting Governor Hochul’s ongoing efforts to reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and advance a clean energy transition that benefits all New Yorkers.”

County officials promised to continue their sustainable efforts and strive to reach the highest level of achievement in the Climate Smart program.

"We’re very proud of the work we’ve put in to receive this esteemed designation,” said Putnam County Commissioner of Planning Barbara Barosa. “Our Bronze Certification recognizes the significant projects that our County has completed to conserve energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and make Putnam a more sustainable municipality.”

County officials thanked Ilona Campo, Putnam County Climate Smart Coordinator/Planning Assistant, for her contributions.

“Attaining Bronze Certification represents a significant milestone that required coordinated efforts across multiple departments, and alongside local government representatives and nonprofit professionals,” Campo said. “Since the re-establishment of the CS Task Force, I am honored to lead a team of talented individuals whose expertise has driven the exploration and execution of various projects that have been and can be implemented at both the municipal and county levels.”