The Murphy Administration on Monday launched New Jersey Climate Week by emphasizing the state’s commitment to building resilience against the growing impacts of climate change. The kick-off event also recognized The Watershed Institute with the “Our Water’s Worth It” award for its contributions to regional stormwater management.
Gov. Phil Murphy noted that as the most densely populated state, New Jersey faces significant flooding threats from climate change.
“Through the work of DEP and coordination across many other state agencies, we are driving down our greenhouse gas emissions and providing the strong leadership and investments needed to equip our communities to better protect lives, property, and infrastructure,” he said.
The “Our Water’s Worth It” awards are part of a campaign to raise public awareness about the importance of protecting the state’s water resources. In presenting the award, Environmental Protection Commissioner Shawn LaTourette praised The Watershed Institute for its work in making communities more resilient to increasing precipitation and severe storms.
“The Watershed Institute understands the urgency to create a more climate-resilient future for all New Jersey residents,” LaTourette said. “Throughout Climate Week, we are urging all residents to learn more about the very real threats of climate change… and the steps we can all take to be better prepared.”
Jim Waltman, executive director of The Watershed Institute, stated that the award underscores the importance of regional collaboration in addressing the harmful impacts of climate change, such as increased flooding and polluted stormwater.
“We are proud to help bring together municipalities, community leaders, and residents to find shared solutions,” he said.
