28-05-2025
Easthampton recognized as 'climate leader community'
EASTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) – The city of Easthampton has been officially recognized as a 'Climate Leader Community' by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER).
The city joins an inaugural group of just 19 municipalities across the Commonwealth to receive the designation.
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The recognition was announced at a ceremony in Watertown on May 2, where Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll presented awards to representatives from the selected communities. The honor acknowledges Easthampton's commitment to sustainability and long-term climate resilience, building on its previous designation as a Green Community, which it has held since 2010.
To qualify for Climate Leader status, Easthampton submitted a municipal decarbonization roadmap—a strategic plan to guide the city toward achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Key strategies outlined in Easthampton's roadmap include:
Transitioning the city's vehicle fleet to electric models,
Electrifying municipal buildings and improving energy efficiency,
Engaging residents, businesses, and institutions to support sustainability efforts,
Integrating climate resilience into municipal operations with a focus on equity and environmental justice.
With this certification, Easthampton becomes eligible for up to $1.15 million in state funding to support local climate and energy initiatives. The grants may be used for projects such as solar energy installations, clean heating technologies, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and other green infrastructure upgrades.
The Climate Leader Community program aims to accelerate climate action across Massachusetts by supporting municipalities that are leading the way in reducing emissions and building sustainable systems.
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