Sustainability and Climate Action in Riverwoods | Seeking Members for Resident Task Force

Join the RPC's Resident Task Force to Elevate Sustainability and Climate Action in Riverwoods

The Riverwoods Preservation Council (RPC) is embarking on an exciting initiative and is actively seeking members for a resident-driven task force. This dedicated team will be instrumental in crafting sustainability and climate action plans designed to further enhance our Village's commitment to environmental well-being. As a nonprofit volunteer environmental organization focused on ecological issues affecting Riverwoods and the surrounding region, the RPC is at the forefront of promoting sustainable practices.

Understanding Sustainability and its Importance for Riverwoods:

Sustainability involves utilizing resources at a rate that allows for replenishment, meeting our needs without compromising future generations. As a community deeply committed to ecological preservation, Riverwoods should champion sustainability activities, including:

• Upholding clean and healthful air standards
• Reducing energy consumption
• Building resilience to climate change impacts
• Promoting sustainable land use and housing development
• Expanding and maintaining a robust woodland and native ecology
• Guiding development to conserve natural topography, scenic views, and existing vegetation
• Fostering healthy community relationships through open space utilization, such as programs at Village Hall
• Engaging residents through natural resources, conservation, and woodland commissions
• Encouraging community participation in sustainability initiatives and events

Understanding Climate Action Plans for Riverwoods:

A climate action plan zeroes in on reducing the Village greenhouse gas emissions and explores ways to both mitigate and adapt to climate change. Proposed climate action strategies may encompass:

• Creating paths to encourage walking or biking instead of driving
• Committing to the purchase of zero- or low-emission vehicles
• Establishing streamlined solar codes
• Mandating electric vehicle charging stations in new developments
• Facilitating community solar programs for residents
• Insisting on renewable clean energy options in electric aggregation contracts
• Enhancing green infrastructure to mitigate future flooding events, incorporating elements like open space, rain gardens, and wetlands preservation.

The RPC is seeking task force members from across the Village, including students. The task force's ultimate goal is to present the Board with a comprehensive draft of the Riverwoods Sustainability Plan and a Climate Action Plan. Be a part of shaping a sustainable future for Riverwoods – join this impactful journey!

If you are interested in serving on the task force, please send an email to Julie Varvaro at 22jvarvaro@gmail.com.

Sign up for RPC emails/newsletters at Riverwoodspc@gmail.com. For more information and upcoming events visit riverwoodspreservation.com.