MassDEP analysts told the Solid Waste Advisory Committee on Nov. 18 that overall disposal in Massachusetts was largely flat from 2023 to 2024 but that net exports increased substantially as non‑MSW (mainly construction and demolition debris) rose while in‑state landfilling declined.

YouTube video by Witold Wisniewski

Program manager Amelia Brown told the board the WaterWise conservation program saved just above 331,000 gallons per day in 2025, has lifetime savings of about 1,000,000 GPD from 37,000 devices and aims for nearly 4,000,000 GPD savings by 2030 at a program cost of about $0.74 per thousand gallons.

In a report that has drawn significant debate, the International Energy Agency (IEA) maintains its commitment to achieving global net-zero emissions by 2050, despite acknowledging factors that could potentially slow the transition to cleaner energy sources. Despite skepticism from figures like Donald Trump, the IEA is doubling down on its vision for a sustainable energy future, emphasizing the need for immediate and substantial shifts in energy production and consumption patterns worldwide to uphold its ambitious climate goals.

Council unanimously adopted the city’s 2026 budget, tax levies and appropriations. Separately, staff presented proposed multi-year electric rate increases and a sanitation rate study showing substantial rises in curbside composting costs; council directed further policy discussion before finalizing fee changes.

Meta has secured long-term power purchase agreements with Treaty Oak Clean Energy to support the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure in Louisiana, aiming to offset its growing energy demands from a new AI data center. The partnerships involve two large-scale solar projects, the Beekman Solar Project and the Hollis Creek Solar Project, which are expected to deliver 385 megawatts of clean energy to the local grid by 2027, generating $100 million in lifetime tax revenue and creating approximately 300 construction jobs.

ISO New England has made available the materials from its recent "New England's Evolving Grid" webinar, which presents findings from the 2024 Economic Study report that explores potential future grid scenarios in the region between 2033 and 2050. The study models the integration of emerging technologies such as solar PV, wind power, small modular reactors, and battery energy storage systems to assess their impact on meeting policy targets while maintaining reliability and affordability.

The Toquerville City Council adopted a joint regional water conservation plan after brief discussion emphasizing that the regional plan sets goals but does not change local enforcement authority.

At an Oct. 9 Shade Tree Commission meeting, commissioners and residents opposed proposed city code changes that would transfer final approval of development landscaping from the commission to the Planning Commission, and raised concerns that mayoral refusals to appoint members could imperil the commission's quorum and the city's Tree City USA role.

At an Oct. 9 meeting, the Athens Shade Tree Commission and dozens of residents urged the city to retain the commission's approval authority for new-development landscaping and opposed provisions that would exempt certain development types and speed code changes through planning and council.

Architects and consultants presented early benchmarking, sustainability goals and public engagement plans for the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport modernization project. A task force of local stakeholders began work; a public open house was scheduled for Oct. 15.

County officials will present emissions inventory results and sustainability goals to council members.

City officials evaluate solar projects and future goals for improving waste management systems.

Owen Sound, Ontario is poised to become a hub for innovation as it prepares to build what could be North America's first hydrogen-powered peaker plant, marking a significant step towards decarbonizing the region's electricity grid. This groundbreaking initiative, backed by the Public Utilities Commission and aligning with the Ontario government's clean energy objectives, aims to replace traditional fossil fuel reliance with a cleaner hydrogen-based alternative, further solidifying the city's role in pioneering sustainable energy solutions.

Story County seeks public feedback on its Climate Action Plan aimed at operational resilience.

Commission agrees to revise language linking carbon goals to APS's fluctuating commitment.

Transportation Committee discusses funding assessments and performance metrics for regional projects.

Planning Board evaluates new capital improvement program aligning with comprehensive community plans.

Commission discusses land use and measurement frameworks for Eugene's sustainability progress.

Honeywell finishes lighting upgrades and prepares for extensive mechanical updates in schools.

The city plans to assess gas system equity and electrification impacts through a comprehensive study.