Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger, a long-time leader on climate, issued Executive Order 1 in her first 30 days in office in January 2023 to strengthen and accelerate the County government’s efforts to reduce climate-damaging emissions and meet the goals of New York’s nation-leading Climate Leadership & Community Protection Act.
Ulster County is the first County government in the state seeking to align its climate efforts with recommendations of the State’s “Scoping Plan” – the roadmap for achieving the emissions reduction requirements and equity goals of the climate law.
Buildings
Any new or majorly renovated County buildings must be:
- Highly energy-efficient
- All-electric for HVAC and other mechanicals
- Equipped with Electric Vehicle charging
Renewable Energy
- Meet 100% of County electricity needs from locally-generated renewable energy by 2030
- This year, assess all County buildings and facilities for renewable energy and battery back-up
Waste
- Sets goal of diverting 100% of the County's organic waste from landfills by 2030
- Strengthens Green County Purchasing Policy & eliminates single-use plastic purchases
- Initiate composting at County buildings
Transportation
- Electrify County buses and expand service
- Build out charging infrastructure by 2025 for a 100% zero-emissions County-owned cars
- Expand trail network and bicycle-friendly and pedestrian-friendly improvements
Promoting Equity + Jobs in the Clean Energy Transition
- Help residents & small businesses access clean energy resources, especially in disadvantaged communities
- Create a Workforce Innovation Center to equip workers with the skills for the new Green Economy
- Ulster County Climate Corps internship and job training