Northampton has developed a creative model for achieving carbon neutrality, one that combines innovation and new technology to make the town cleaner, safer and more efficient. Converting school buildings’ heating and cooling systems reduces energy costs, as does placing solar panels atop existing buildings. Optimizing the use of electric vehicles while adding bicycle lanes reduces vehicle traffic, and creates safer roads while limiting greenhouse gas emissions and improving the town’s air quality.
The town’s bold approach to confronting the negative impacts of climate change, now a regular part of daily life, is moving the city towards the best of all worlds: a safer environment at lower cost. While the federal government has abandoned its responsibility to help municipalities manage effectively, Northampton is showing that it can improve its quality of life without outside help.
Marvin Berkowitz
Needham Heights