University celebrated by Baker-Polito Administration during 15th Annual Leading by Example Awards
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UMass Dartmouth recently received a Leading by Example Award from the Baker-Polito Administration and Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources for its campus decarbonization plan.
The recognition came at the 15th annual Leading by Example Awards Ceremony at UMass Lowell, where UMass Dartmouth was honored alongside ten other Massachusetts state agencies, public higher education institutions, municipalities, and public sector individuals for leadership in promoting initiatives that reduce environmental impacts and associated energy costs of state operations.
“Public sector leaders at the state and local level play a crucial role in contributing innovative approaches and solutions that help our state meet its ambitious climate and clean energy goals,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “Today’s award ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate the good work of our state and municipal leaders and the action they are taking to protect our environment, reduce costs and embrace forward-looking solutions to our energy challenges.”
UMass Dartmouth was celebrated alongside UMass Amherst, UMass Lowell, and Salem State University for their collaborative efforts that led to a comprehensive decarbonization study to understand better the strategies and technologies needed to meet carbon neutrality by 2050 or sooner. In addition, the institutions worked closely to translate their respective roadmaps into action and share lessons that can be applied to future decarbonization studies at other state facilities.
“The ongoing efforts of state agencies, municipalities, and public higher education institutions are driving our ambitious climate goals forward in a meaningful way, and we’re pleased to recognize their dedication and commitment to the Commonwealth through the annual Leading by Example awards,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Kathleen Theoharides. “Governor Baker recently signed an Executive Order outlining a significant expansion of the Leading by Example program, and the Baker-Polito Administration is committed to supporting the efforts of state and municipal entities that are working to implement innovative clean energy solutions.”
The Leading by Example (LBE) program is administered by the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and works collaboratively with state agencies and public colleges and universities to advance clean energy and sustainable practices that reduce the environmental impacts of state government operations. Cities and towns across the Commonwealth receive similar support and grant funding through DOER’s Green Communities Division.