Environmental Advisory Council

Members

• Zachary Davis, Chairperson
• Theresa Landewe, Vice-Chairperson
• Vicki Meitus, Secretary
• Louise Willis, Member
• Mark Vondra, Member
• Kabindra Shakya, Member
• Jaquelin Camp, Member
• Allison O’Donnell, Young Adult
• Carole Kenney, Board Liaison
• Rose Grosso, Staff Liaison
• Contact EAC

Meetings

• 6:30PM
• 2nd Wednesday monthly
• Administration Conference Room
  (Township Building – Upper Level)

Mission Statement
The Upper Merion Township Environmental Advisory Council is dedicated to exploring and promoting ways to create a more environmentally protective and sustainable community while providing support and advice to the Township’s Board of Supervisors, Commissions, and other personnel.

Goals
Our goals include:

• Developing policy recommendations, including those related to encouraging sustainable practices and improving Township recycling programs;
• Promoting natural resource conservation within the Township and the broader community;
• Increasing education and awareness through community activities, social media, and TV specials;
• Working with the community, regional, and local environmental organizations to promote environmental education and outreach; and
• Evaluating available grant funding opportunities to facilitate the implementation of environmentally beneficial projects in the Township.

Ready for 100

In August 2019, the Upper Merion Township Board of Supervisors passed a Ready for 100 Resolution, which is a national campaign to encourage and assist municipalities in transitioning from fossil fuels to 100% renewable energy sources. The UMT Ready for 100 plan is to move to clean, renewable electricity by 2030 and a heat and transportation transition by 2040. In addition, Upper Merion will replace all vehicles in the township fleet with electric as they age. Learn more.

Improve your environmental awareness and natural resource conservation: 

• Conservation International – Live Green
• Visit Greenerchoices.org for products for a better planet
• Simple steps toward conservation collectively go a long way to helping conserve our state’s natural resources – learn more at iConservePA.org
• Find sustainable living tips from water bottles to paperless bills at O.Berk

Educational Seminars

• Residential Trash & Recyclables Removal Services Evaluation
  On December 2, 2013, a PowerPoint presentation called “Residential Trash & Recyclables Removal Services Evaluation” further explored the options presented by the EAC. It also provided the Board of Supervisors with additional information on the subject to assist them with their ability to take action in this area if they deem practical.
• Waste & Recycling Hauling Systems Presentation
  November 29, 2012

Five Easy Ways to Go Green at Home

• Bring a Bag – When you go shopping, bring a reusable tote to carry your groceries or other items after making purchases.
• Reuse water bottles – Less than 20 percent of plastic water bottles get recycled after a single use, so instead of buying a pack of plastic bottles, drink from the tap or purchase a reusable water bottle and fill it up each time.
• Save Electricity – Cut down on electricity by washing clothes in cold water and putting them outside to dry, opening a window and letting in the light, and using smaller kitchen appliances when possible.
• Reduce gas guzzling – Obeying the speed limit helps reduce unnecessary acceleration, which will save on the amount of gas used and the percentage of carbon dioxide produced by your car. Also, keep your tires properly inflated to improve your mileage.
• Stop paper bills – Save paper and time! Online statements are available and automatic payments can be set up through the company’s site or your bank.

Agendas & Minutes