In 2009, the Town of Bethlehem established the Sustainable Bethlehem initiative to showcase its commitment to becoming a more sustainable community, especially in light of the growing effects of climate change. The Sustainable Bethlehem initiative’s goals are:
- Have the Town lead by example through improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in its operations and by actively promoting its own sustainability successes and informing residents of available resources to become more sustainable at home and work.
- Foster a prosperous business environment for both local and new businesses focused on delivering products and services that meet the current and future needs of Bethlehem and the region.
- Enhance Bethlehem’s character to incorporate more mixed-use options that will enhance a live, work, play environment.
- Support a safe and accessible network of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure that is well maintained and extensively utilized for commuting, recreation, and daily trips.
- Conserve open space and protect natural areas through effective land use policies.
- Provide diverse, affordable, and energy efficient housing options.
Selected Accomplishments
Responsible Growth
Energy Efficiency
- Upgraded wastewater treatment plant with more energy efficient aerators
- Replaced all lights at Town Hall with LEDs
- Opened 3 public and 2 Town EV charging stations
- Began transitioning Town fleet to cleaner vehicles
- Completed greenhouse gas inventories for the community and our Town government
Green Innovation Economy
- Plug Power, a global green hydrogen leader, moved its headquarters to Bethlehem
Waste Management
- Expanded our state-of-the-art Compost Facility
- Opened food scraps drop spots
- Collected 2+ million cubic feet of yard waste annually
Climate Change Adaptation
- Established procedures for Cooling and Warming Centers during severe heat waves and cold snaps
- Started street tree planting program
- Created Native Plant Demonstration Garden at Town Hall
Land Protection
- Protected 307-acre Historic Heath Farm in Glenmont and Selkirk
- Protected an additional 386 acres throughout Bethlehem between 2018 and 2024
- Created the 147-acre Normans Kill Ravines park in Delmar and Elsmere
Renewable Energy
- Built Town-owned 3.75 MW solar facility
- Updated Town code to make solar installation easier
Transportation Options
- Restoring and expanding our 47-mile sidewalk network, including the Blessing Rd and Cherry Ave Ext multi-use paths
- Launched Bethlehem Safe Streets education campaign to support drivers, cyclists, and walkers