~ Submitted by Bedford Mothers Out Front
Mothers Out Front of Bedford would like to thank Taissir Alani, the Town of Bedford’s Facilities Director, who was the guest speaker at our February chapter meeting.
More than 30 people zoomed in to hear his update on Bedford’s Progress to Net-Zero. Regarding sustainability initiatives, not only did we hear about past improvements, current happenings, and the environmental impact from Bedford’s 2021 Electric Vehicle Charging Stations, but also future plans: adding solar panels and battery storage to town buildings, creating a resilient microgrid for town buildings, electrifying more department vehicles, finalizing the ten-year energy plan, and more.
Following Taissir’s presentation, there was time for participants to engage in Q&A.
Also during the meeting, Mothers Out Front gave updates on several local chapter initiatives:
- Food Waste initiatives, including planning for an Earth Day educational composting event on April 23rd.
- 3% of Bedford’s total building emissions”
- Bedford participated in the Statewide Race Against Time Rally where over 3000 postcards were delivered to the Gas Utilities, asking them to submit plans for a just transition to renewables that do not include explosive gas. You might see some familiar Bedford faces in the MA rally video.
- Sustainability Director Initiative, advocating for the Town to move forward right away on hiring a Sustainability Director to implement the Net Zero Plan for all Bedford buildings that the Town Meeting voted for in 2017 and that the Select Board received in 2019. Surprisingly, our municipal energy use is 3% of Bedford’s total building emissions with residential being 24% and commercial is a huge 73%! This month the Bedford Select Board recommended an Energy & Sustainability Manager be included in the town budget. Having such a position will amplify for all of Bedford the great work that Taissir Alani, a true climate champion, has been doing for our town’s municipal buildings!
If you would like to join or learn more about Bedford Mothers Out Front, please reach out to us at: [email protected]
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