Connecticut Sustainability Week Events Run Through Oct. 4

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Posted Wednesday, October 1, 2025 9:00 am

E+E Leader Team

Connecticut is in the final stretch of its second annual Sustainability and Resiliency Week, with events continuing through October 4, 2025. The initiative, launched by Governor Ned Lamont on September 28, is highlighting the state’s efforts to advance climate resilience, clean energy, and environmental protection across communities.

With several days of programming remaining, residents, students, and industry leaders can still attend in-person, online, and hybrid sessions on issues including nature-based solutions, water quality, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation. Full event schedule here.

Priorities for a Changing Climate

“From wooded hillsides to a diverse coastline, Connecticut’s natural resources are key to its character,” Governor Lamont said in the announcement. “By bringing together residents, policy experts, elected leaders, educators, advocates, and others, we celebrate the work underway and generate momentum for the work to come.”

The state has already implemented policies to cut carbon emissions, expand renewables, and reduce waste, while also building the infrastructure for electrified fleets and climate-ready communities. The week of events is designed to showcase this progress and generate broader collaboration across sectors.

What to Expect After October 1

Workshops on climate resilience and extreme weather preparedness, featuring state and local officials alongside community leaders.
Water quality and resource protection sessions, including a workshop hosted by the Connecticut Water Planning Council.
Transportation and energy initiatives, where the Department of Transportation will highlight its Pollinator Program and energy efficiency projects, and the Department of Administrative Services will share progress on renewable energy in state facilities.
University of Connecticut sustainability activities, engaging students in nature-based learning and strategies to reduce their environmental footprint.

Voices Across the State

Katie Dykes, Commissioner of the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, stressed the urgency: “Here in Connecticut, we’ve experienced more extreme weather events—from intense flooding to dangerous wildfires—resulting in tragic losses of life and hundreds of millions of dollars in damage. Making sure our communities are prepared and resilient is a top priority.”
Michelle Gilman, Commissioner of the Department of Administrative Services, said sustainability is embedded in daily operations: “From improving energy efficiency in state buildings and expanding solar power, to building the infrastructure for an electrified fleet, these efforts reduce costs and emissions while strengthening resilience.”
Andrew Mais, Commissioner of the Connecticut Insurance Department, highlighted consumer protections: “We are focused on giving consumers the tools and protections they need to stay resilient today and in the future.”
Laoise King, Deputy Commissioner at the Department of Transportation, pointed to “projects and initiatives that reduce our carbon footprint and make a difference throughout the state.”
Patrick McKee, Director of the UConn Office of Sustainability, noted the importance of engaging students, faculty, and staff in statewide efforts.

Regional Context

Connecticut’s approach mirrors a broader trend in the Northeast. Massachusetts recently expanded its Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness program, while New York has accelerated funding for climate-resilient infrastructure through its Environmental Bond Act. These initiatives reflect a shared urgency in states facing coastal flooding, storm surge, and extreme heat — risks that are intensifying with climate change.