Reducing Negative Environmental Impacts

Newton residents place a high value on protecting the environment. Consistent with the principle, “Think Globally, Act Locally,” they expect their local government to be a model of environmental sustainability and resource management. We propose the following initiatives to reduce Newton’s negative impacts on the environment:

1) Improve and expand our recycling program;

2) Reduce our carbon footprint by increasing the energy efficiency of city buildings, installing solar panels where viable, and eliminating the non-essential use of city vehicles through the development of a comprehensive fleet management plan;

3) Adopt environmentally-sound open space care practices that protect our parks and preserve street trees and our urban forest; and

4) Reduce air pollution and fuel consumption from private vehicles through public actions, such as improved street maintenance, enhanced public transportation resources, and smart intersection technology that relieves traffic congestion.