The Climate Economy Programs are designed to help communities build and implement priority actions that increase economic vitality and affordability in a time of climate change.

Climate Economy Initiative

Climate Economy Initiative Climate Economy Resilient Communities Climate Catalysts Leadership Program Climate Catalysts Innovation Fund History and Background Summits The Climate Economy Initiative is designed to help communities and leaders build and implement priority actions that increase economic vitality and affordability in a time of climate change. The ultimate goal is to help model change…

Rochester Area Climate Initiative Report and Action Plan – February 2022

The greater Rochester area participated in VCRD’s Climate Economy Model Community Program (CEMCP) in 2021. CEMCP is community-driven process with local leaders, VCRD, Green Mountain Power, and Efficiency Vermont to cultivate economic development, innovation, and affordability in the face of climate change. Over 80 residents participated in the “Rochester Area Climate Initiative” (RACI) process with…

Building Efficient, Resilient Housing Building Efficient, Resilient Housing

Building Efficient, Resilient Housing

Home heating is the second largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Vermont, with the average Vermonter spending nearly $2,000 to heat stay warm. Based in Bristol, VT, Smith & McClain is a general contractor specializing in residential construction, solar power systems, electrical services, and energy efficiency. Their goal is to provide customers with the…

VCRD Innovator Stories

Studio Hill Farm – Agriculture for the Future

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that roughly 30% of global emissions leading to climate change can be attributed to agricultural activities, including pesticide use. One of the most effective tools for stopping the present increase in atmospheric CO2 is to build soil carbon through regenerative farming, grazing and land-use practices with a focus on soil health. Studio Hill Farm,…

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Climate Catalysts Innovation Fund: Small Grants for Innovative Local Climate and Energy Projects

New round of applications are now open and available: APPLY HERE   The Vermont Council on Rural Development, in collaboration with local funders invites applications for small grants to support local innovators developing solutions that move Vermont closer to its climate and energy goals. The fund is initially capitalized with at least $20,000 and will be administered…

LED Dynamics VCRD Innovator Story

Vermont is Home to a State-of-the-Art LED Producer

Lighting accounts for nearly 5% of global CO2 emissions. With LED lighting achieving savings of 50-70%+ compared to older technologies, LEDdynamics is helping to combat climate change from Randolph, Vermont. LEDdynamics is a cutting-edge LED technology producer. Manufacturing Technology Insights recently recognized LEDdynamics as a Top 10 Electric Manufacturing Solutions Provider. The company conducts all…