To the Editor:

The Albany County Legislature is moving aggressively to make progress on going green. 

We voted unanimously this week to approve a million dollars in bonding to fund green capital projects, the second year in a row we did this. This will continue many needed steps. 

Our replacement schedule for county vehicles is focused on zero and low emission vehicles and adding charging stations. There’s an emphasis on solar and sometimes geothermal heat in our buildings. Air-source heat pumps will be utilized as well. Energy efficient improvements are ongoing such as more efficient boilers, better windows, and insulation and LED [light-emitting diode] lighting. 

This initiative is in addition to the Sustainable Technology and Green Energy (STAGE) Act passed in the county legislature in June designed to help attract and grow new businesses in the renewable-energy sector. A good example is the new Plug Power fuel cell plant in Slingerlands that has committed to creating 1,600 new green jobs.

Though going green is a worldwide challenge, local governments can take a leadership role. So too can its residents. Be a stickler for recycling, buy energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs, keep heat and air-conditioning levels at only what you truly need. Consider having a composter in your yard as I do. It is invigorating to see what we can accomplish when we work together.

Mark Grimm

Guilderland

Editor’s note: Mark Grimm represents part of Guilderland in the Albany County Legislature.