Eatontown Borough Works to Undo the Damage of Invasive Plants (Monmouth County)  

That battle against invasive species is being fought locally in Monmouth County. The Eatontown Environmental Commission joined forces with colleagues in Colts Neck Township and the Borough of Rumson to form the Monmouth Invasive Species Strike Team (MISST). The group is helping communities learn best practices for eradicating invasive plant species and restoring healthy habitats through trainings. The first event was held at Bliss Price Arboretum and Wildlife Sanctuary in Eatontown. 

Merchantville Grows Gardens and Promotes Food Security (Camden County)

Concerned with the overall health and well-being of their town, a coalition of residents and community groups in Merchantville Borough are implementing projects to nurture environmental stewardship, encourage a culture of wellness and promote food justice. The Merchantville Green Team and Incredible Edible Merchantville have enhanced the Merchantville Community Gardens that are located behind the Merchantville Community Center. Merchantville Borough, a Sustainable Jersey bronze-certified town, received two $2,000 Sustainable Jersey grants, funded by the PSEG Foundation, that have supported this work.

Climate Change Lesson Plans by NJ Teachers for NJ Teachers

The New Jersey Climate Change Education Hub, launched in June 2022, equips educators with teaching materials aligned to the new Climate Change Education Student Learning Standards. The free hub has exemplar lesson plans written by New Jersey educators, a database of more than 1,500 teaching resources, professional learning opportunities and guidance for school boards. The New Jersey Climate Change Education Initiative recommended that for standards to be effectively implemented, teachers need to be supported with adequate resources.

Delaware Township School Learning Garden Provides Access to World Beyond the Classroom (Hunterdon County)

Students, teachers, birds, bees, toads and worms enjoy a beautiful outdoor space where they can thrive and learn at the Delaware Township School (DTS). Girl Scout Troop 81295 had a vision for how to transform an unused portion of their schoolyard and through hard work, the members of this troop inspired and partnered with the community to help them complete the important project. With the help of a $2,000 Sustainable Jersey for Schools grant funded by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA), the school accomplished a lot.

Grants to Improve Air Quality and Energy Performance in Women- and Minority-Owned Small Businesses

The School and Small Business Energy Efficiency Stimulus (SSBS) Programs are part of a $180 million grant initiative for New Jersey public schools and women- and minority-owned small businesses to improve the air quality and energy performance of their buildings. The programs provide grants for up to 75% of costs to maintain, repair or replace HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) systems and install energy efficient and water-conserving plumbing fixtures and appliances.