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Click on the links below for resources and research about Western Massachusett's ongoing efforts for conservation, preservation and sustainability.
Renewable Energy
State Programs
- Green Communities Act of 2007 On July 2, 2008, Governor Deval Patrick signed the Green Communities Act of 2007 into law. This landmark energy legislation is a comprehensive, multi-faceted energy reform bill that encourages energy and building efficiency, promotes renewable energy, creates green communities, implements elements of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), and provides market incentives and funding for various types of energy generation.
- Green Jobs Act of 2008 will support development of the clean energy technology industry that will move Massachusetts toward the green economy of the future.
The Green Jobs Act will provide support for the growth of a clean energy technology industry, helping Massachusetts to meet goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Backed by $68 million in funding over five years ($43 million from the FY07 surplus and $5 million per year from the Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust), this legislation gives initial authorization for $5 million in RET funding next year as well as $1 million each in for seed grants to companies, universities, and nonprofits; workforce development grants to state higher ed, vocational schools, and nonprofits; and low-income job training (Pathways Out of Poverty); plus $100,000 for a study of the clean energy sector.
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The Green Communities Act makes the electricity marketplace in Massachusetts to favor efficiency over additional power generation, saving energy and money for consumers, and to support the development and use of renewable energy by residents, businesses, and municipalities.
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The Oceans Act, which requires the development of a first-in-the-nation comprehensive management plan for Massachusetts's state waters, allows for the development of wind, wave, and tidal power as part of a plan that balances new and traditional uses with preservation of natural resources.
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The Clean Energy Biofuels Act gives preferential tax treatment to non-corn-based alternatives to ethanol, requires biofuel content in all the diesel and home heating fuel sold in the state, and proposes a new fuel standard for the region that will encourage a range of emissions-reducing technologies for cars and trucks.
Networking and Industry Development Groups
- Green Drinks Springfield & Green Drinks Northampton are local network groups for anyone interested in sustainability, renewable energy, all things "green," the environment, and the new Green Movement.
- GreenSpringfield is an organization designed to connect local business professionals, offer networking opportunities for the purpose of stimulating environmental business development and economic growth in Western Massachusetts.
Environmental Consulting and Engineering Firms
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