Timeline

A Brief History of Green Marlborough

January 2007

Local resident Jen Boudrie writes the Energy and Environmental Inventory for Marlborough, an initial baseline for energy and environmental measures.  This is the first step towards creating a Sustainability Action Plan and receiving the Green Community designation from the state of Massachusetts in 2010.

March 2007
Twelve people attend a meeting that leads to the creation of Green Marlborough which becomes a proactive, program-based, community organization dedicated to local environmental solutions.

July 2007
Green Marlborough distributes 200 free energy efficient light bulbs to help residents save money and reduce energy consumption, and raise awareness about Green Marlborough.

April–November 2007
The first Stream Team assesses Mowry Brook in Marlborough to support public health.  Reports are submitted to the Marlborough Conservation Officer and sent to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife.

November 2007
The Mayor signs the Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) pledge as Green Marlborough members and municipal employees look on.

January 2008
The first Green Marlborough TV show is produced to bring attention to local sustainability interests.  Dozens of people have helped to create monthly shows.

Spring 2008
Green Marlborough resident Jen Boudrie creates the Sustainability Action Plan which is reviewed by a 14-member taskforce made up of Green Marlborough members, municipal staff, business owners, and energy professionals.  It is being implemented to improve energy, water, recycling, and land use management in Marlborough.

April 2008
Green Marlborough members create the 1^st Marlborough Earth Day Fair.  Hundreds attend the fair each year to learn about local sustainability and how they can help the city and the planet.

September 2008
Green Marlborough members begin to participate in a regional effort to clean up the Assabet River to improve the health of the river that runs through our region.

June 2009
Two Green Marlborough members start Walk with Green Marlborough.  Since then hundreds of residents have been introduced to eight local trails in the comfort of a guided group to bring attention to often unrecognized natural resources in the city.  People enjoy the camaraderie, fresh air, good exercise, nature observation, and learning about the trails.  They also learn the importance and value of preserving open space.

January 2010
Green Marlborough organized a home weatherization team.  With the guidance of weatherization professionals they reduced the home’s energy use 28% and used skills they learned to work in their own homes.

March 2010
Green Marlborough is honored to receive the annual “Green Award” from the Marlborough Regional Chamber of Commerce for its achievements.

December 2010
The City of Marlborough received “Green Community” designation and a $217,125 grant from the state of Massachusetts to fund municipal energy efficiency in buildings and vehicles, and a part-time Energy Efficiency Manager position.

Spring 2011

Green Marlborough creates the Green Guide for Marlborough, a resource for residents on home energy efficiency, water conservation, recycling, local food, organic landscaping, transportation, and recreation.

April 2011
A Green Marlborough member creates the first Massachusetts Sustainable Communities Conference which is hosted in Marlborough.  It is sold out in advance and attracts 350 people from across the state.

 

Green Marlborough distributes Mass Save information to 500 people.  Forty residents sign up to reduce home energy costs and increase energy savings.

Summer 2012
The City of Marlborough implements a new curbside automated truck trash/recycling bin system which increases recycling rates.  The city also creates a community garden with 40 plots for residents.  Green Marlborough members actively supported recycling and local gardening programs.

August 2012
Green Marlborough initiates a fundraising effort to support local environmental initiatives and support local solar installations.

June 2013
Jen Boudrie organizes a Sustainable MetroWest Gathering for local environmental leaders to initiate, renew, and strengthen cross-community relations.

Help us Grow!
Green Marlborough residents are doing as much as they can “for free” for the community.  We want to continue the momentum of our early years.  Please donate your talent, time, or money to Green Marlborough.  We need your help to move beyond what we have accomplished so far and see our wonderful city continue to improve beyond what we have already accomplished – to become an even healthier, safer environment – for people who live and work in Marlborough, and for future generations.  Thank you!