Groton Earns Climate Leader Designation, $16,667 Resilience Prize

Groton has earned Sustainable CT Climate Leader designation and a $16,667 prize for a climate resilience project, according to the Town of Groton. The town is one of seven Connecticut municipalities receiving the designation in 2026.

“This designation reflects Groton's longstanding commitment to sustainability and climate resilience, and the collective efforts of our elected leaders, Town staff, community partners, and residents,” said Jonathan Reiner, director of planning, development and public works. “We're proud of what we've accomplished and look forward to continuing this important work.”

“One of the things I'm especially proud of is how equitable community engagement was incorporated into the development of Climate-Ready Groton,” said Lisa Noriega, town sustainability and resilience specialist. “Making sure residents have opportunities to share their perspectives and help shape our climate priorities is an important part of building a more resilient community. It's exciting to see that work recognized alongside the Town's other sustainability accomplishments.”

“Congratulations to our Climate Leaders,” said Jessica LeClair, executive director of Sustainable CT. “The decisions of local government – from zoning to transit systems, sidewalks, and building codes – play a huge role in determining the carbon footprint and resilience of residents and businesses. We are inspired by the leadership and commitment of these communities.”

Groton will be recognized Tuesday, Nov. 10, from 4 to 7 p.m. at The Wadsworth in Hartford. Sustainable CT's celebration page offers registration, including guests. Event questions and accommodation requests go to info@sustainablect.org, with accommodation requests due Tuesday, Oct. 27. People needing hearing accommodations may call 711.

Town announcement questions go to Noriega at 860-446-5983 or lnoriega@groton-ct.gov. Sustainable CT questions go to communications director Jim Hunt at 860-259-4732 or jamesh@sustainablect.org.

Source: “Climate Leader designation” (groton-ct.gov)