The Green Needham Collaborative is focused on helping residents cut their energy use. Our primary initiative in this regard is the 10% Energy Challenge. Over 500 families have taken the 10% Energy Challenge so far, which represents pledges of energy-saving actions that would keep over 4 million pounds of CO2 out of the atmosphere!
This year, in honor of Needham’s Tercentennial, our goal is to double that number to 1,000 families that have taken the 10% Energy Challenge, helping to bring about a sustainable future while celebrating our past. We have been working to realize the 1,000 family milestone (which happens to represent 10% of the Town’s population) by seeking the help of service organizations and other civic groups, businesses (including realtors, restaurants, etc.), houses of worship, schools and municipal groups. We plan to recognize groups that participate in Needham 1,000 by having a sufficient number (typically 30%) of their members taking the 10% Energy Challenge. Businesses can also qualify by cutting their energy use.
To recognize these groups and organizations, we will commission an attractive plaque to be hung in a public building. The plaque will name each of the qualifying groups, organizations, businesses and schools who have participated in the 10% Energy Challenge. Several groups have already qualified. Our Needham 1,000 Team is busy reaching out to organizations throughout Needham. For example, we have been working with realtor organizations, some of whom have already qualified to be recognized on the plaque. And we are working with some of Needham’s service organizations, encouraging them to not only involve their organizations but to institute a friendly inter-group challenge.
We could certainly use help in achieving our goal. If you would like to assist, please contact Jim Glickman at or Eleanor Rosellini.
