A Profile of Sustainable Dobbs by Aidan Crowe
Sustainability is an integral part of any vibrant community, and as the frequency of sustainability issues rises, it's important that Dobbs Ferry residents have agency over how these issues are handled. One organization helping to make this a reality is Sustainable Dobbs.
Sustainable Dobbs is uniquely positioned to connect people to grassroots efforts and influence local policy since it is both a volunteer organization and a task force of the Dobbs Ferry government. While the committee consists of around 12 official members, there is a much broader network of volunteers and regional partners which have included Our Streets Dobbs Ferry, Dobbs Ferry Food Pantry, Hudson Valley Regional Council, and Sustainable Westchester, to name a few.
The network that Sustainable Dobbs has built within the past several years allows them to effectively tackle local sustainability issues with a multi-faceted approach. Sustainable Dobbs targets five different focus areas: Transportation, Built Environment + Energy, Zero Waste, Gardens + Greenspaces, and Water. Here, as well as on the Sustainable Dobbs Instagram page, Sustainable Dobbs Facebook page, and seasonal SD Newsletters, you can find news on relevant local events and information on how to make sustainable life choices.
Sustainable Dobbs partners with the Dobbs Ferry DPW to run a DeWaste station at each Jazz Forum Arts summer concert at the Dobbs Ferry Waterfront. This was the 4th year running the station that aims to make the concert a zero waste event by composting and recycling garbage. The result of this summer’s partnership led to over 93% of the trash diverted from the waste stream, surpassing the standard 90% that qualifies it as a zero waste event. Collaborations like this one encourage residents to be conscious about sustainability and ensure that recreational events themselves are sustainable.
Sustainable Dobbs has created a powerful network of community members and impactful projects, but implementing a plan for long-term sustainability within the community is no easy task. Committee member Janet Roseff highlighted the sometimes lengthy bureaucratic process in local government and the lack of public awareness as the main hurdles of the organization’s work. “Getting the word out is one of the biggest challenges,” said Janet.
In a time where misinformation is prevalent, guiding the world towards a brighter future in the face of climate change may seem like a tall task. But it’s important to realize what you can do to make a difference, however small. Sustainable Dobbs is an incredibly valuable resource for individuals and the community alike. For these reasons, we strongly suggest that you check out the Sustainable Dobbs website and consider getting involved! You can email them directly at sustainabledobbs@gmail.com!
Aidan Crowe, a graduate of Dobbs Ferry High School, is a rising senior at American University. He served as the Intern for Friends of Waterfront Park this summer.
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