environment & energy
Overview
The CRCOG region is home to an array of natural features that support the ecological health of the region and state, provide enjoyment and recreational opportunities to our communities and visitors, and protect our own health and wellbeing. CRCOG leads various initiatives and provides tools and resources to help its member municipalities protect critical resources and incorporate sustainability principles into everyday practice. Past and current efforts including helping the region: prepare for oncoming consequences of climate change, reduce greenhouse gas, mitigate natural hazards, and address stormwater. For our efforts related to brownfields assessment and remediation, check out our Economic Development page.
NEW: CRCOG is undertaking the Capitol Region Stormwater Authority Feasibility study. Sign up to receive project emails here.
CRCOG INITIATIVES
Hazard Mitigation & Climate Adaptation Plan
CRCOG has updated the regional “Hazard Mitigation and Climate Adaptation Plan (HMCAP)”. The Plan was approved by FEMA and adopted by each municipality.
Regional Climate Action Plan
CRCOG is developing a climate action plan, supported by the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG), to reduce greenhouse gases in the region.
Stormwater
Through grant funding, CRCOG is undertaking a study to examine regional approaches to stormwater utilities.
partnership with sustainable ct
CRCOG has partnered with Sustainable CT to facilitate regional planning of sustainability initiatives, communicate and track progress, and provide CRCOG municipalities with overarching frameworks to achieve sustainability goals. CRCOG assists in reviewing applications for certification and has hosted interns who help communities apply for certification. CRCOG has partnered with Sustainable CT on multi-community projects, including a recent affordable housing initiative.
As of January 2025, 13 CRCOG communities have achieved certification:
- Gold: Glastonbury and West Hartford
- Silver: Coventry, Manchester, Mansfield, Marlborough, and Vernon
- Bronze: Bolton, Ellington, Granby, Rocky Hill, Suffield, and Windsor
- Climate Leader: Glastonbury, Manchester, and West Hartford
other projects and resources
CRCOG Projects
- Waste Management & Recycling
- Brownfields funding
- Sustainable Land Use Code Project, Model Land Use Regulations (2014): Model regulations for energy conservation and alternative energy; local foods systems; compact, mixed use development patterns; and housing diversity and affordability.
