Leading by Example

Located behind the farmhouse are two tracking solar panels that receive plenty of daily sun. These solar panels provide more electricity than Greenbelt uses and also power our electric car chargers. The installation of the solar panels have been a great addition to Greenbelt’s measures to reduce our carbon footprint. (Made possible with a generous donation from Tim and Emily Collins of Topsfield.)

In 2019, a dual electric car charging station was installed in the public parking area. Not only does it provide power for visiting electric vehicles free of charge, but it also promotes sustainability.

Greenbelt is headquartered in a centuries old building at the Allyn Cox Reservation in Essex. The building underwent an extensive renovation and expansion in 2007 that added office space and a conference room while incorporating a number of green building practices to improve efficiency and make wise use of materials. The building achieved a gold-level LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. 

As sea levels rise, the Cox Reservation faces many threats; the worst being flooding. In recent years, there have been large tidal surges, that have cause a considerable amount of flooding on the property.

The causeway is the only access that allows Greenbelt staff, members, and other visitors to get to the Cox Reservation. Erosion of transitional areas between wetlands and uplands, and damages to the salt marsh from storm surges are a few more examples of threats that the reservation now faces.

Due to these recent climate impacts, it became clear that developing a climate based management plan for the property was crucial.

Greenbelt’s Stewardship Department is moving to replace its gas-powered tools with electric and battery-powered tools.  Because much of our electricity is produced by our solar arrays, these tools would be powered by renewable energy.