Warwick takes the 10% Challenge

Warwick - Rising energy prices, oil spills, dependence on foreign oil, air pollution, global warming—these problems may seem beyond the control of individuals. But people working together can make a difference. Leaders of the Warwick community have taken up the 10% Challenge initiated locally by Sustainable Warwick. The goal is increased energy awareness and a 10% reduction in some form of energy in one year. All four municipalities—the Town and Village of Warwick, the Village of Greenwood Lake, and the Village of Florida—and school districts and libraries in Warwick and Florida are participating in the campaign. The Albert Wisner Library currently has electricity monitors to lend out and a display of relevant books. Looking at energy was not new to these supporters, who have already made significant changes. The Warwick Valley Central School District has an energy performance contract that will include installation of more efficient lighting and lighting controls and more efficient furnaces and heating controls. It has also recently been awarded a $100,000 federal grant for energy projects. Both the Village and Town of Warwick have had energy audits. The Town of Warwick installed photovoltaic panels on the Senior Center. Greenwood Lake has installed three LED streetlights that cut electricity costs and provide excellent quality downward lighting and is currently engaged in a wind study to evaluate the feasibility of wind power. The Village of Florida has passed an Energy Star building code for new construction. The Florida Union Free School District has contracted with Honeywell to improve energy efficiency. The new Albert Wisner Library makes use of daylighting and has a programmable thermostat and a geothermal system that eliminates a fossil fuel burning furnace. The 10% Challenge, a project originated by the nonprofit Sustainable Hudson Valley, aims to engage communities in reducing nonrenewable fossil fuel use, slowing greenhouse gas emissions, and decreasing pollution, which can adversely affect health. Saving energy can also save money and create green jobs. The town and the village of Red Hook were the first to officially pass resolutions, closely followed by the Town of Warwick and Villages of Warwick, Greenwood Lake, and Florida. New York State, like other states and municipalities, has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by 2050. The quicker these reductions are made, the more impact they will have. Over the next year, Sustainable Warwick will sponsor several events on energy at various locations. Its Web site will offer detailed information on saving energy. The organization has also asked for a small number of interested groups to sign on to the 10% Challenge and will work with them to see what ideas and questions arise. Anyone can take the 10% Challenge, of course. Becoming aware of energy use is a first step. Visit your local library, municipal office, or www.sustainablewarwick.org for more information. This article was provided by Mary Makofske.