Putnam County is one of 10 municipalities in the Hudson Valley to receive Bronze Certified status.

 Carmel, NY – Earlier this week, Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne announced New York State’s Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has certified Putnam as a Bronze Level Climate Smart Community. Aided by the Putnam County Climate Smart Task Force, Putnam County has taken several actions to reduce its carbon footprint and mitigate climate change. By doing so, these actions accumulated points to meet the criteria of a Climate Smart Community.

The Climate Smart Putnam program amongst its many efforts has reduced greenhouse gas emissions and increased the usage of renewable energy. 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.

"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 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.”

“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.”

“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.”

"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.”

The County would also like to extend its gratitude towards Ilona Campo, Putnam County Climate Smart Coordinator/Planning Assistant, for her contributions in leading Putnam to this great achievement.

“Attaining Bronze Certification represents a significant milestone that required coordinated efforts across multiple departments, and alongside local government representatives and nonprofit professionals,” said Ilona Campo, Climate Smart Coordinator. “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.”

Putnam County is proud to be amongst 154 other Climate Smart communities in New York State. The County promises to continue its sustainable efforts and strives to reach the highest level of achievement in the Climate Smart program.