Woodbridge Recognized for Sustainable CT Bronze-Level Certification

The Town of Woodbridge is among the Connecticut municipalities to be recognized this year for achieving Sustainable CT certification.

‍Sustainable CT, a statewide initiative that inspires and supports communities in becoming more efficient, resilient, and inclusive, announced this year’s list of certified communities.

Woodbridge met high standards in a broad range of sustainability accomplishments to qualify for the prestigious Bronze-level certification.

Hillary Drumm, Co-Chair of Woodbridge’s Sustainability Committee, said, “We’re proud to see Woodbridge recognized for our growing commitment to sustainability and long-term community resilience. This recognition reflects not only our commitment to sustainability, but also the collective efforts of our volunteers, town staff, and residents who continue to prioritize a greener, more resilient Woodbridge.”

In its application for Sustainable CT certification, Woodbridge demonstrated significant achievements in thirteen sustainable impact areas, ranging from inclusive community building and thriving local economies to vibrant arts and culture, as well as clean transportation and diverse housing. Woodbridge successfully completed various actions, including establishing a Poet Laureate, advancing sustainable snow management, and implementing a food waste collection program at Beecher Road School, among others.

“This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication of Hilary Drumm and the thoughtful initiatives led by our Sustainability Committee, and the leadership and tireless efforts of my Executive Assistant, Alison Valsamis,” said First Selectman Mica Cardozo. “Their work exemplifies what can happen when staff, volunteers, and community leaders come together in pursuit of a more sustainable future for Woodbridge.”

“Congratulations to our certified communities,” said Jessica LeClair, executive director of Sustainable CT. “We are inspired by the leadership and commitment of these communities. From elected officials and town staff to resident volunteers, these certified towns are improving opportunities and the quality of life for all.”

“Once again, our municipalities have successfully initiated and implemented projects that address climate resilience, energy efficiency, equity, land conservation, waste reduction, and economic development, among other important priorities,” said Nicole Chevalier, co-chair of Sustainable CT’s Board of Directors. “The work these towns do is critical to achieving the state’s ambitious environmental and climate objectives, and we are incredibly proud of them.”

The program includes actions that help towns and cities build community connection, social equity, and long-term resilience. It includes an action roadmap and support tools that are especially relevant as towns seek practices and resources to promote racial justice and respond to the on-going challenges of climate change and economic uncertainty.

Michael Purcaro, co-chair of Sustainable CT Board of Directors, sees profound changes taking place across the state. “By recognizing the natural environment as the foundation for the health and well-being of all people, our sustainable initiatives are driving real change in towns and cities across Connecticut,” said Purcaro. “We’re seeing improved efficiency in the delivery of government services, significant cost savings and a stronger sense of community. We congratulate our award recipients and commend them for their collective work to create a more vibrant state that provides opportunities for all to thrive.”

Sustainable CT has strong multi-year support from the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation, Hampshire Foundation, Common Sense Fund, Connecticut Green Bank, and the Community Foundation of Eastern Connecticut.

Woodbridge will be recognized at the Sustainable CT’s 2025 Awards Celebration on October 28 at the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam.