The City of Ferndale has received a gold certification in recognition of environmental leadership by the 2021 Michigan Green Communities Program (MGC). 44 participating Michigan municipalities were awarded gold, silver, or bronze seals of achievement, reflecting community leadership in areas of energy efficiency, climate adaptation and resilience, recycling, environmental justice, and more. Ten communities received bronze and twelve received silver, which positions Ferndale among twenty-two communities to receive the gold certification.  

Ferndale’s gold status reflects the distinguished actions in planning, economic development, land use, climate resiliency, energy efficiency, material management (recycling, composting, waste diversion), clean mobility, and community engagement. The City’s most notable programs from 2021 include the participation in the ICLEI150 Race to Zero Program, the development of the City’s first Climate Action Plan and a Green House Gas Inventory, the updates of planning ordinances to improve resource protection, and the launch of food waste initiatives and plans for sustainable City upgrades.  

“I am proud to look back on the City’s environmental progress through the MGC. These accomplishments have been years in the making, and have taken a passionate community, a supportive council, and many dedicated staff members,” said Ferndale’s Zero Waste Program Coordinator Claire Dion. “With continued teamwork, Ferndale will build more innovate sustainability solutions and move towards a carbon natural future.”

The Michigan Green Communities (MGC) Program is open to all local governments in Michigan at no cost. MGC is a sustainability networking, benchmarking, and technical assistance program. It guides and supports communities to adapt to changing climates, protect infrastructure, improve the quality of life for residents, and create a more environmentally and economically sustainable future for the state of Michigan.  

“The Michigan Green Communities Challenge Gold Award is a testament to the Ferndale community values creating a healthy environment for current and future residents and businesses to thrive in. It is a recognition of Ferndale’s City staff, local government leadership, and residents demonstrating their values in action,” said Ferndale Environmental Sustainability Commission Chair Jennifer Young. “I’m proud to be a member of this community. When we implement sustainable practices, it sends a message throughout the region that we take pride in our community.”

Michigan Green Communities is supported by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy; the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services; the Michigan Economic Development Corporation; the Michigan Association of Counties; the Michigan Municipal League; and the Michigan Townships Association. More details about this program can be found at www.migreencommunities.com. Questions regarding the Michigan Green Communities program can be directed to info@migreencommunities.com.