The Long Branch Green Team invites your suggestions for other sustainability projects. To do so, simply enter your idea in the comments section at the bottom of the page.

We welcome any innovative approach to civic engagement, resource conservation, development, landscaping, waste management, economic stimulus, etc., that has a demonstrable impact on sustainability. They can include ordinances, implementation of alternative or new technologies, policies, practices, programs, etc.

Here are 3 projects that showcase new approaches to sustainability that were done here in Long Branch:

• The Long Branch Green Team (LBGT) initiated a "Demonstration Composting Project" at the 7th Avenue Community Garden in November 2018 until October 2020. An educational workshop was held and residents were invited to bring their kitchen waste to the garden where staff & volunteers layered and rotated the material. When it was converted to compost it was applied to the garden soil. We succeeded in reducing the waste DPW took to landfills and improving the quality of the garden soil. 

• The LBGT partnered with the Whalepond Brook Watershed Association to promote stewardship of the Lake Takanasee watershed. The planting of native species that support wildlife was undertaken. The role of rain gardens in flood control and maintenance of water quality was promoted in workshops offered to the public and local DPW staff. 

• Friends of Jackson Woods partnered with LBGT to maintain open space with clean-ups, plantings of native species and controlling invasive species. 

Here are some examples of innovative projects that other NJ towns have implemented: 

• Cherry Hill increased recycling an amazing 80% in the six months following the launch of a new recycling program that enlists citizens and local businesses to help increase the township’s recycling. Through the RecycleBank program, the town created a new system whereby everyone in the community has their recycling weighed and tracked. For every pound of waste, residents recycle, they are rewarded with points that can be used to shop at local and national businesses. 

• Atlantic Highlands is proud to be home to the largest municipal harbor in NJ. In order to be responsible stewards of the waterfront and dry dockland, the town felt it was important to be sure all visitors to the Harbor had a clear understanding of the prudent manner in which the harbor is to be used in order to ensure that high water quality is maintained. To that end, Atlantic Highlands passed an ordinance that specifies which activities can and cannot take place. Prohibited activities include, but are not limited to Sand Blasting, Spray Painting, Welding, Cleaning of Fish, Dumping, and Sewerage, and permitted activities to include Recycling, and Pet Cleanup. The town also has an active outreach program which includes mailings and web postings to help the harbor users abide by the ordinance and keep the marina clean.