Clean Energy Durham Launches 2030 Society to Highlight and Support City/County Greenhouse Gas Goals

Dozens of Durham residents sported colorful “2030 Society Founder” medallions around their necks at the November 18^th launching of the 2030 Society, a group of individuals, businesses, and organizations supporting the City and County goal of reducing community greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by the year 2030.

Organized by nonprofit Clean Energy Durham, the 2030 Society provides financial support to Clean Energy Durham’s work in 30 Durham neighborhoods to engage neighbors in helping each other reduce their use of household energy.  Clean Energy Durham’s leadership role was recognized by Mayor William V. “Bill” Bell, who read a proclamation proclaiming November 18, 2010 “Clean Energy Durham Day.”

“Clean Energy Durham is one of the leading organizations in the country working on energy education at the neighborhood level,”  said Mayor Bell.  “Clean Energy Durham’s model, now in demand from other communities, brings recognition to Durham and will play a leading role in helping the City and County reach their goal of reducing the community’s greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by the year 2030.”

The launch event was held at the offices of local architect Phil Freelon, whose firm, The Freelon Group, is one of the 2030 Society Founders.   Also among the Founders was County Commissioner Ellen Reckhow, who pointed out that greenhouse gas reduction benefits the community through reduced energy bills, air quality improvement, reduced traffic congestion, increased transportation choices, and economic development and job creation through energy conservation services and new technologies.

2030 Society Founders each pledged $2,030 to support Clean Energy Durham’s community outreach work.  Additional 2030 Society members will be added over the next 20 years as more residents reach a cumulative total of $2,030 in donations.

Check out our complete listing of 2030 Society Founders.