As climate change and environmental concerns continue to be pressing issues, many individuals and communities are looking for ways to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. Bergen County is no exception, with numerous businesses, initiatives, and events promoting eco-friendly practices and sustainable living. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options in Bergen County for eco-conscious consumers and those who want to make a positive impact on the environment.
Eco-Friendly Shops
The Village in Edgewater
At its core, The Village is a nurturing play cafe that promotes a strong sense of community and connection among parents and their little ones. The Montessori-inspired space invites families to bond and learn together in a comfortable and engaging environment. One standout aspect of The Village is its exceptional collection of sustainable children's toys. Thoughtfully curated by an educator and designer, these non-toxic and eco-friendly toys not only delight the little ones but also align with parents' values and commitment to preserving the planet. By offering sustainable alternatives to conventional toys, The Village encourages responsible consumerism and helps raise the next generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
Todd Shelton in East Rutherford
When it comes to sustainable fashion, look no further than Todd Shelton, an East Rutherford-based brand committed to producing high-quality, ethically-made clothing. By focusing on timeless designs and utilizing eco-friendly materials, Todd Shelton offers stylish wardrobe staples that not only look great but also minimize their environmental impact.
MOM's Organic Market in Paramus
MOM's Organic Market is a one-stop-shop for all your eco-friendly needs. Located in Paramus, this grocery store offers a wide variety of organic, non-GMO, and locally sourced products, including fresh produce, natural health and beauty items, and eco-friendly household essentials. By shopping at MOM's, you’re not only supporting local farmers and producers but also contributing to a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.
With these three fantastic eco-friendly shops in Bergen County, NJ, residents can easily make environmentally conscious choices and support local businesses. So, next time you're in the area, be sure to check out The Village, Todd Shelton, and MOM's Organic Market for a sustainable shopping experience that benefits both you and the planet.
Green Initiatives
Resilience Planning
Resilience planning has emerged as a vital eco-friendly initiative in Bergen County, particularly in light of extreme weather events such as Hurricane Sandy. This approach focuses on safeguarding the community by enhancing infrastructure, protecting people and property, and minimizing disruptions to daily life. Bergen County's resilience planning includes measures such as floodproofing critical facilities, implementing stormwater management strategies, and upgrading the Overpeck Creek Tide Gates. By taking these proactive steps, Bergen County is working towards creating a more sustainable and resilient environment for its residents, in harmony with other eco-friendly practices in the area.
Green Building
Green building is an eco-friendly initiative that is increasingly popular in Bergen County. By utilizing construction techniques that minimize environmental impact and prioritize energy efficiency, green building contributes to a more sustainable community. Projects can be certified through rating systems like the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED, which evaluates aspects such as water and energy conservation, efficient fixtures, and renewable energy sources. By adopting green building practices, Bergen County residents and business owners can support a greener and more sustainable environment.
Electric Vehicle Parking
Electric vehicle (EV) parking is becoming an increasingly important aspect of Bergen County's sustainable initiatives. With the growing popularity of electric and alternative fuel vehicles, the need for accessible charging infrastructure is crucial. While charging stations in Bergen County have been limited, the county has made efforts to improve access by installing stations at Van Saun and Overpeck parks, the County Administration Building, and the Paramus Annex. To encourage further adoption of EVs, New Jersey has implemented measures such as requiring municipalities to consider EV infrastructure in their Master Plans and providing grant funding for publicly accessible charging stations. These actions aim to support the expansion of electric vehicle usage and contribute to a greener and more eco-friendly Bergen County.
Community Events
Party For The Planet
This year, the Bergen County Zoo's Earth Day celebrations are expanding with a weekend-long Party for the Planet event. Taking place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 22nd and 23rd, this conservation-focused event aims to raise awareness and support for local conservation projects in Bergen County. The celebration features a variety of activities, prizes, and interactive learning experiences, with local conservation organizations setting up booths to inform and engage the public. Highlighting the importance of this event, County Executive Jim Tedesco notes that it serves as a hub for conservation education and encourages residents to contribute to local initiatives. With the Bergen County Zoo's ongoing commitment to global conservation efforts, the Party for the Planet offers a unique platform to showcase the achievements of local organizations working to protect the environment.
Ridgefield Park Earth Day Nature Walk
Join the Ridgefield Park Earth Day Nature Walk at the Ridgefield Park Nature Preserve for a family-friendly guided tour. Gather at the nature preserve's parking lot by 9:00 AM, where an expert guide from the Ridgefield Park Environmental Commission will lead the walk. The event offers a sneak peek of the preserve before its grand opening on June 3rd. Make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring binoculars and cameras to capture sightings of various bird species, including eagles. While enjoying the walk, you may also help collect litter to maintain the preserve. This all-ages event offers an enjoyable way to celebrate Earth Day and appreciate nature.
Oradell’s Green Fair & Town-wide Clean-up
Join Oradell's Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 22, 2023, for a town-wide clean-up and Green Fair. The event, sponsored by the Oradell Environmental & Beautification Committee and Bergen County Clean Communities, takes place from 9 AM to 12 PM at Memorial Field. Gloves, bags, and supplies will be provided to participants. Don't miss this opportunity to help clean up the town and learn more about how to protect planet Earth.
Green Fairs and Festivals
Several green fairs and festivals take place throughout the year in Bergen County, celebrating eco-friendly living and raising awareness of environmental issues. These events, such as the Green Fair in Ramsey and the Sustainable Living Festival in Leonia, feature vendors offering eco-friendly products, workshops on green living, and opportunities to connect with local environmental organizations.
Bergen County’s commitment to sustainable living is evident in the numerous eco-friendly shops, green initiatives, and community events available to residents and visitors. By supporting these businesses and participating in these events, individuals can make a positive impact on the environment and help create a more sustainable future.
In addition to the businesses, initiatives, and events mentioned above, there are several other ways in which Bergen County residents can live a more sustainable lifestyle. For example:
Recycling: Bergen County offers a comprehensive recycling program that includes curbside pickup of recyclables, as well as drop-off centers for items such as electronics, hazardous waste, and textiles. By properly disposing of recyclables, residents can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and promote a circular economy.
Energy efficiency: There are several ways to increase energy efficiency at home, such as installing energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances, weatherizing windows and doors, and using programmable thermostats. These measures can help to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills, while also benefiting the environment.
Water conservation: Bergen County residents can conserve water by fixing leaks, using low-flow fixtures, and reducing water usage in the garden. Conserving water helps to preserve a precious resource and reduce the carbon footprint associated with water treatment and distribution.
Overall, sustainable living is not only good for the environment but also offers numerous benefits to individuals and communities. By supporting eco-friendly businesses, participating in green initiatives, and making conscious choices in everyday life, Bergen County residents can help to create a more sustainable and resilient future.