ORION TOWNSHIP, Mich. – The Michigan Green Communities program has recognized Orion Township in their participation in the Michigan Green Communities Challenge. Over 60 local governments were awarded either bronze, silver or gold in their achievements in climate adaptation and resilience, environmental justice, recycling, energy efficiency and more.
Out of the 62 governments awarded, seven received bronze certification, 20 received silver certification and 35 received gold certification.
Orion Township received gold certification is multiple areas: economic development, land use, climate resilience, climate adaptation, energy efficiency, renewable energy, materials management (recycling, composting, waste diversion), water conservation and protection, and community engagement.
According to a press release from the office of Chris Barnett, Supervisor of the Board of Trustees of Orion Township, “Most remarkable was Orion Township’s demonstrated increase in quantity and quality of both commercial and recreational development, while also increasing investment in and improvement of local parks and nature reserves all while prioritizing and enhancing community social, financial, environmental, and physical wellbeing. Examples include General Motor’s Orion Assembly, Orion Township’s purchase of Great Lakes Athletic Club and their investing in and re-visioning of the space into a community recreation center, upgraded and renovated several sewer lift stations and other waste management measures resulting in a 20% reduction in household disposal since 2020, and over $3 million invested in Orion Parks and trails.”
The Michigan Green Communities (MGC) program is a sustainability networking, benchmarking and technical assistance program open to all local Michigan governments at no cost.
According to the press release, “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.”
Additional questions regarding the Michigan Green Communities program can be directed to Danielle Beard, Michigan Green Communities Program Coordinator at [email protected].