To the Editor:

New Jersey is already experiencing the effects of climate change. Local temperature data shows that Mercer County has experienced a 3.6°F degree increase in average temperatures during the past century. We are also experiencing precipitation peaks, 2018 was the wettest year since record keeping began in 1895.

By adopting the Climate Action Plan, Princeton committed to reducing our community’s greenhouse gas emissions 50 percent by 2030 and 80 percent by 2050. Buildings are Princeton’s single largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for nearly two-thirds of production-based emissions. The Princeton Environmental Commission and the Master Plan Subcommittee of the Planning Board have drafted a Green Building and Environmental Sustainability Element for the town’s Master Plan.

The master plan is a dynamic long-term planning document that provides a conceptual layout to guide future growth and development. Master planning is about making the connection between buildings, social settings, and their surrounding environments. The draft Green Building and Environmental Sustainability Element outlines strategies to encourage green building practices, address climate change, reduce energy usage and transition to renewable sources, optimize our town’s land use and mobility, while protecting and enhancing water and open space resources.

The draft plan is posted on the municipal website at princetonnj.gov. We urge those who are interested to review the document. The Planning Board will consider the draft element at their meeting on June 18.

Heidi Fichtenbaum
Princeton Environmental Commission Vice Chair
Carnahan Place