Photo By: Merwin Kinkade

The Montclair Environmental Commission (M.E.C.) was established by ordinance in 2001, consistent with state laws creating environmental commissions. The Commission is comprised of seven members, one of whom is also a member of the Planning Board, plus two alternates.

Their role is to study, evaluate, and make recommendations to the Township Council and the Planning Board regarding local environmental issues, including (but not limited to) the following topics: solid waste management and recycling; clean water resources; stormwater management; energy conservation and renewable energy resources; air, noise, and light pollution; transportation and circulation planning; preservation and use of parks and other open spaces; land use; and protection of flora, fauna, soil and landscape throughout the Township. In addition, they review the potential effects of applications before the Planning and the Zoning Boards. The M.E.C. also provides environmental information to residents.

The Montclair Environmental Commission is committed to sustainability, a policy incorporating economic responsibility, environmental stewardship, and equitable, just social benefits into municipal decision-making, operations, and purchasing. In 2002, the Commission produced the Sustainable Montclair Planning Guide, an over-arching environmental 'how-to' policy guide for the municipal government.

For creating this 'living document', and its subsequent endorsement by Township Council Resolution, the M.E.C. was presented the 2003 Annual Environmental Achievement Award from the Association of N.J. Environmental Commissions (ANJEC). It is expected that implementing sustainability programs and projects in Montclair will result in long-term cost savings, improved health for residents and municipal employees, preservation of property values, energy conservation to reduce our town's contribution to climate change, plus additional environmental and quality of life benefits.