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The City of Asbury Park has been awarded a Sustainable Jersey bronze level certification for its commitment to going green, officials announced via a written news statement.

Sustainable Jersey is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that provides tools, training and financial incentives to communities as they pursue green initiatives. Currently, 79 percent or 445 of the State’s 565 municipalities participate in the program.

“We are proud to receive the Sustainable Jersey bronze level certification, a testament to our commitment to going green.” Councilperson Eileen Chapman said. “Asbury Park joins a group of municipalities that are leading the way with impressive sustainability initiatives in New Jersey.”

The award comes in response to the municipality meeting a set of rigorous requirements, including completing 18 sustainability actions in nine categories, thereby earning them 190 points for their Municipal Community Garden, Environmental Shade Tree Commission’s beautification projects, farmer’s markets, participation in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, and efforts to create a pedestrian friendly bikeable community.

The certification makes the City eligible to apply for “green” grants in the future, officials said. This is the second time the City has received the accolade. 

The City will be honored at the Sustainable Jersey Awards Luncheon on Nov 14 in Atlantic City during the League of Municipalities conference.

The City has reinstated its Green Team, a volunteer committee comprised of city officials and community leaders, who will work to support and promote the creation of a sustainable community, city officials said.

For more information, visit www.sustainablenewjersey.com.

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