Ellen Tohn’s article “Wayland’s climate work: Progress and potential,” Feb. 14, highlighted the power of community action and how we can “lead by example to move our municipal buildings and operations off fossil fuel and help our neighbors to do the same.”
We should all be heartened by successful efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while saving significant amounts of money: $120,000 annual savings from four solar systems, $60,000 annual savings from new high efficiency streetlights, and a staggering $3.7 million in energy costs over 20 years from over 42 completed energy capital projects.
There’s more, and more to come, including opportunities for everyone to benefit the environment, the town and their own wallets. Because, as Tohn points out, 79% of greenhouse gas emissions in our community come from our homes and vehicles, residents can explore options for reducing fossil fuel use, and in most cases, lowering expenses. How? Community-based Energize Wayland (community.massenergize.org/Wayland) provides a lot of information about options as well as access to volunteer coaches.
Climate change can feel overwhelming, so it’s good to have a place to have an impact. When every 1/10 degree increase in average global temperatures makes a real difference, our involvement takes on added significance.
Marjorie Lee
Brooks Road
