As we recognize Earth Day, it is the ideal time to reflect on the impact we have on our planet and how we can collaborate to create a more sustainable future. Here are a few initiatives that the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) has collaborated with other state agencies and entities that have made a positive difference:
Energy Efficiency/Decarbonization: DAS has worked with Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU) to construct the first building by the State of Connecticut that will be Net Zero Energy in terms of its carbon footprint; Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) for a brand-new Western District Headquarters that meets CT High-Performance Standards, and the main facility established sustainability goals of meeting LEED v4 Platinum, as well as targeting Net Zero Energy; and with Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) getting a brand new technical high school that meets CT High-Performance Standards, it will be fossil-fuel free, zero carbon ready, and net zero energy ready.
Renewable: DAS in conjunction with the Connecticut Green Bank and Attorney General's Office (AGO) to develop and execute a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to allow state agencies to install solar photovoltaics on state properties through the Connecticut Green Bank. The Executive Branch has its first 3 projects underway at three Department of Correction facilities that will be complete before the end of the year. The state has several projects in the pipeline at various stages of implementation that will be completed in the next few years.
Transportation: DAS is required by statute to electrify our state-owned fleet to electric vehicles (EV) by 50% by 2026 to 100% by 2030. DAS has been working with a firm to finalize the design on our first few locations and develop an EV roadmap for electric vehicle charging infrastructure at state properties that lease out fleet vehicles from DAS.
Water Conservation: DAS and DEEP finished the completion of the water recirculation filter and pump infrastructure improvements at DEEP's Quinebaug Fish Hatchery in 2023 which will save thousands of gallons of water daily to reach closer to our goal of reducing our water consumption by 10% by 2030, per Governor Lamont's Executive Order 1.
Organic Collections: DAS has partnered with Blue Earth Compost to implement a composting program at 450 Columbus Blvd to compost food scraps. In 2023, 32,498 pounds of food have been composted, mitigating CO2 emissions. This is equivalent to the mitigation of almost 7,000 pounds of carbon dioxide, 349 gallons of gasoline burned; 51 seedlings planted, 4,200 kWh of energy created, and over 7,000 miles driven by the average car.
With the implementation of these sustainable measures and the collaboration between state agencies, we can contribute to a healthier community and planet for current and future generations. Let's celebrate Earth Day every day by taking action to protect and preserve our environment.
