Politics & Government

Wyckoff Becomes Only Bergen Town to Achieve 'Silver' Sustainable Jersey Status

Township says a team effort led to its increased distinction from the 'Bronze' status.

Wyckoff has become one of only 20 municipalities in the state to achieve a ‘Silver Sustainability’ level by Sustainable Jersey, the township committee announced via a release after its meeting this week.

According to the release, 137 towns across the state have been certified by Sustainable New Jersey since the program launched in 2009. Of those, only 20 across the state, and one in Bergen County, have received the ‘Silver’ distinction.

“Silver certification means a municipality has made significant progress in a number of categories toward sustainability and is a state-wide and national leader,” Sustainable Jersey explains on its website.

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In order to reach the new level of distinction, towns must present the statewide organization with proof of certain sustainable activities. Below are some of the projects the Wyckoff Environmental Commission, Green Team, and members of the community completed to achieve the distinction:

  • Construction of a Rain Garden at the Wyckoff Library
  • Wyckoff schools’ sustainability program implementation
  • The Wyckoff Rec Department Pledge, which urges all kids to take reusable bottles to township games, instead of disposable ones
  • Chamber of Commerce’s creation of a Green Wyckoff Business Program
  • Completing an energy audit in the township
  • A resident awareness program encouraging everyone to recycle

Wyckoff received ‘Bronze status with the organization in 2011.

Find out what's happening in Wyckoffwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

According to township officials, the difference between the two distinctions is about 200 points on a submission application outlining sustainable actions a municipality has taken.

“Wyckoff’s efforts achieving the Sustainable Jersey Silver Level Certification is truly a community effort,” the Committee said in a statement about the achievement.


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