NEWS

Downing receives Green Star Award from ELM
June 11, 2015

BOSTON – State Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D- Pittsfield) was honored with the 2015 Green Star Award from the Environmental League of Massachusetts (ELM) during Tuesday’s Earth Night spring gala in Boston.

With over 300 environmental, business and labor leaders in attendance, ELM singled out Downing as an “Environmental Champion” for his leadership as Senate chair of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities, and Energy.  In introducing the Senator, Nancy Goodman, ELM’s Vice President for Policy, noted Downing’s sponsorship of legislation for a diversified energy portfolio, increasing renewable energy and energy efficiency, pension fund divestment from fossil fuels, and a ramp up in free home energy audits.   

ELM President George Bachrach added, “Senator Downing not only represents his district exceedingly well, but he has become a state and national leader for an enlightened 21st century energy policy.” 

Downing has served as the Senate chair of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities & Energy since 2011.    

“Everything in the Legislature is a team effort,” said Downing.  “If I have been effective it's because of the support of my colleagues and constituents, as well as partners like ELM who have come together to help Massachusetts lead the way. Our work is not done and I look forward to doing all I can to expedite our transition to a clean energy economy.”  

The Environmental League of Massachusetts is dedicated to protecting the health of our environment and citizenry by safeguarding the land, water and air of our Commonwealth. ELM is focused on environmental advocacy and strengthening the voice and effectiveness of the environmental community.  ELM advocates for strong environmental laws and regulations on a broad range of environmental issues, voices the concerns of citizens, ensures that laws are properly implemented and enforced, and educates the public.

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