Governor-Elect Visits Annual Environmental Summit

– Kelly Kennedy, CTLCV

“Your goals are my goals,” Malloy announced to  the capacity crowd of environmental advocates and legislators gathered at yesterday’s annual environmental summit.  Malloy’s  unannounced half-hour visit  in the midst of a packed transition schedule signaled his level of concern for the environment and sustainable economic development.

Seeming to be chomping at the bit to get to work on what he described as Connecticut’s “long ignored, festering problems,” Malloy emphasized that as Governor he will be fully engaged on the complex issues of energy and transportation.  Malloy’s remarks also revealed a regard for Connecticut’s environment as an asset that is fundamental to the quality of life here.

Yale professor and Green to Gold  author Dan Esty opened the summit, discussing the anticlimactic  UN climate talks in Cancun and the urgent need for the US to make a serious commitment to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions. Yet Esty emphasized the opportunity for states like Connecticut, historically known as a center of innovation, to take the lead in building the industry and creating the jobs that will provide the innovative solutions essential to managing  environmental and energy problems.  

Legislative leadership from both political parties, business representatives and environmental advocates led discussions throughout the day about  what’s on the horizon for Connecticut’s energy,  transportation, land use and water management policies. 

The summit took place at the Boathouse in Hartford’s Riverfront Park, one day after a conference on successful business sustainability practices sponsored jointly by CBIA and the CT Department of Environmental Protection.