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A Year of Climate Action in York: What We’ve Achieved Together

December 2025

Community action can feel small when taken one step at a time. But when neighbors come together with shared goals, those small steps quickly add up to meaningful change.

Over the past few years, residents across York have been working together to make homes more energy-efficient, reduce environmental impact, and build a more sustainable community. Thanks to the efforts of volunteers, homeowners, and local supporters, the results are already making a difference.

Here’s a look at what this citizen-driven movement has accomplished so far—and how community members are continuing to lead the way.

Supporting Energy-Smart Homes

Since April 2023, more than 170 homes in York have worked with volunteer energy coaches to make their homes more efficient and comfortable.

Through this program, residents have received guidance on how to:

  • Lower heating and electricity bills

  • Improve year-round home comfort

  • Reduce their carbon footprint

  • Access thousands of dollars in energy rebates

Energy coaching helps homeowners understand which upgrades make the most sense for their homes, whether that means improving insulation, installing heat pumps, or switching to cleaner technologies.

And the best part? Energy coaching is free for York residents.

If you’ve been thinking about making your home more energy efficient, this could be the year to get started.

Expanding the EcoHomes Community

Education is another key part of building a more sustainable community.

Since launching in 2021, the EcoHomes newsletter has grown to reach nearly 1,300 York households. Each issue shares practical tips and ideas to help residents make everyday choices that support a healthier environment.

From reducing energy use to cutting down on waste, the goal is simple: make sustainable living approachable and achievable.

If you enjoy the newsletter, consider inviting friends and neighbors to join the list. The more people involved, the greater the impact.

Bringing the Community Together

Another highlight of the past few years has been the growing success of York’s Climate Action Fairs.

These events bring together residents, local experts, and organizations to explore practical climate solutions for everyday life. Hundreds of attendees have participated, learning about:

  • Electric bikes and electric vehicles

  • Electric lawnmowers and leaf blowers

  • Solar installation and heat pumps

  • Energy-saving home upgrades

The fairs also include hands-on activities for children, making them a fun and educational event for the whole family.

The tentative date for the 2026 Climate Action Fair is May 2, 2026, so mark your calendars.

What Residents Are Doing at Home

While community programs play an important role, the real impact comes from the everyday choices people make at home.

EcoHomes subscribers shared many of the changes they’ve made over the past year to live more sustainably. Some of these actions are big investments, while others are simple lifestyle shifts—but every step helps.

Here are just a few examples from York residents:

  • Talking with friends and neighbors about home improvements like adding insulation or reducing dryer use

  • Buying yogurt in returnable glass containers

  • Reducing holiday consumption through Yankee swaps and reusable gift bags

  • Switching to glass containers for food storage instead of plastic

  • Biking to local businesses

  • Transforming homes to all-electric systems powered by solar energy

  • Installing heat pumps

  • Starting regular compost pickup services

  • Purchasing electric vehicles

  • Volunteering as energy coaches and EcoHomes writers

  • Installing rooftop solar panels

  • Adding home insulation

  • Choosing a living potted spruce as a holiday tree and planting it afterward

  • Hanging clothes out to dry—even if it means showing off a little laundry to the neighbors

These actions reflect the creativity and dedication of people who care about protecting their community and environment.

Looking Ahead

The progress York has made so far shows what’s possible when people work together toward a common goal. From home energy upgrades to simple everyday changes, residents are finding ways to reduce their environmental impact while strengthening the community.

Every conversation, every home improvement, and every new idea helps move the town closer to a more sustainable future.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed their time, energy, and creativity to this effort.

Together, you’re helping keep York beautiful, resilient, and thriving for generations to come.

Happy 2026 and happy holidays to the entire York community!

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