Grand Rapids is one of the first local governments ever to achieve platinum certification for its environmental leadership by the statewide Michigan Green Communities program.
The city achieved its platinum certification as part of the annual MGC Challenge.
This is where local governments are awarded bronze, silver, gold or platinum seals of achievement. A news release says these achievements demonstrate community leadership in various areas, including energy efficiency, climate resilience, recycling, mobility, environmental stewardship and more.
The categories the city received platinum status for exemplary action include increasing tree canopy coverage in the City and diverting waste from landfills among others.
The cities of Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor are the first to achieve this highest level of recognition.
