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The Catalyst Communities Initiative is a comprehensive program that provides education, training, planning, and technical resources to local governments as they work toward their sustainability goals.
The initiative offers an array of resources on various environmental, social, and economic topics to help communities across Michigan make a just transition to decarbonization and meet our MI Healthy Climate Plan goals. The initiative aims to provide a range of resource options to meet communities wherever they are, regardless of geography, population size, or pre-existing knowledge.
Catalyst Communities webinars are free, recorded, and then posted online, which takes out the constraints of time, travel, and cost for communities. Individuals registering for a webinar who are unable to attend will receive notification when the recording is available for on-demand viewing.
June 24, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Food Waste Collection and Composting - How to develop a curbside pick-up and municipal drop-off program
Food waste is estimated to make up almost 24% of Michigan’s municipal solid waste, with a significant portion coming from the residential sector. One way to capture and recycle this valuable resource is through community drop-off programs which offer a proven path to introduce food waste recycling to residents. Learn about developing and existing programs, the challenges and opportunities associated with food waste composting efforts and how pilot programs can be used to foster investments into curbside collection of food waste.
July 23, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Food Waste and Composting Myths, Debunked
Misconceptions can often lead to barriers in implementing and growing food loss and waste reduction (FLWR) practices in our communities. In this session, Danielle Todd, Executive Director of Make Food Not Waste, will address and dispel common misconceptions in FLWR including myths around sources of food waste, food consumption, food donation and food rescue, food in landfills, and composting. This session will include discussion on overcoming barriers to FLWR and provide information on how you can help reduce food waste in your community.
August 12, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Helping Catalyze Behavior Change In K-12 School Cafeterias Through Student Led Waste Audits, Projects & Experiential Learning
Join us for this session to learn about strategies aimed at assisting schools in effectively engaging K-12 students, our future leaders, in composting initiatives. This session will help parents, teachers, school administrators, and community leaders alike, on their journey to enhance awareness on ways we all can all assist with diverting organic waste from landfills through composting. It will also provide tips on how to mitigate contamination and establish an efficient, cost-effective organics management program in schools and the community. Hear about the Lunch Rescue & Recycle program which promotes behavioral change within K-12 cafeterias through waste audits and experiential learning opportunities.
August 27 , 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Catalyst Communities: Pathways to Preservation: Reforesting our streets and protecting our wild spaces
In this webinar, the City of Sterling Heights Sustainability Team will discuss how the city is implementing the Pathways to Preservation and Play millage which the voters approved in the 2024 general election. The mileage provides funding to reforest city streets devastated by the emerald ash borer and Dutch elm disease. The program also provides funds to purchase undeveloped land for preservation purposes. In this webinar, Ryan Fox, with the City of Sterling Heights, Office of Planning, will discuss the logistics of their large-scale tree planting program and how the city is reviewing parcels for preservation purposes. Attendees will also learn about the public engagement process that led to the passage of the millage, providing for the tree planting rollout and land preservation activities underway.
Catalyst Communities Kick-off (recorded 11/19/20, 121 min)
Communities across Michigan are experiencing high water events, extreme temperature, increases in rainfall, and changes in agricultural and natural systems which are impacting the welfare of our state's residents and upending everyday business. Though these events span the state, localized impacts have--and will continue to--profoundly affect health, safety and quality of life in every local community. To help communities better prepare for increased frequency and ferocity of weather disruptions, we have launched the Catalyst Communities initiative, which provides information, training, and resources to suit every community's unique needs.
| Date Recorded | Title | Description | Category |
|---|---|---|---|
| 04/29/25 | Catalyst Communities: Hauling and Recycling Food Scraps, Glass, and Cardboard from Commercial Customers | Country Oaks and CO Sustainability has been operating in Southeast Michigan for several generations, coming up with new ways to collect, haul, and process various materials for reuse. Join us for this insightful webinar to hear how they do it! Learn about the materials they collect and process, and how they are put to reuse to, in some cases, lower landfill bound materials from commercial customers by up to 85%. | Materials Management |
| 1/17/24 | Part 1 of a 3 Part Mini-series - Introduction to Climate and Health Adaptation Planning: A Health in All Policies Approach | This Catalyst Communities webinar features the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Michigan Climate and Health Adaptation Program (MICHAP). This webinar is the first of a three-part webinar mini-series that focuses on climate adaptation planning that leverages MICHAP and other state department and university resources. Join us for this min-series to gain insight into how climate change impacts Michigan communities and the health of our residents. You will learn about climate adaptation planning from a human health perspective featuring MICHAP’s Planning Guide, developed to support communities through a climate adaptation planning process that recognizes the climate health pathways most likely to impact community health. Subsequent webinars will dive into phases of the climate adaptation planning process with community case studies following the Climate and Health Adaptation Planning Guide for Michigan Communities. By participating in the three-part webinar series, communities will be positioned to engage with MICHAP in a future technical assistance planning opportunity. |
Climate |
| 2/21/24 | Part 2 of a 3 Part Mini-series - Climate and Health Adaptation Planning: A Health in All Policies Approach | Climate and Health Adaptation Planning: A Health in All Policies Approach, is the second of three part mini-series in the Catalyst Communities Webinar Series. In this webinar, we focus on integrating health considerations into climate adaptation planning. Building upon the foundational insights from the first session, this session aims to deepen participants' understanding of the essential planning phases outlined in the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Michigan Climate and Health Adaptation Program (MICHAP) Climate and Health Adaptation Planning Guide for Michigan Communities. The webinar will also provide an opportunity to learn from peers who utilized strategies in the Guidebook to develop and implement a countywide climate and health adaptation plan. By participating in the three-part webinar series, communities will be positioned to engage with MICHAP in a future technical assistance planning opportunity. | Climate |
| 4/10/24 | Part 3 of 3 Mini-series - Climate and Health Adaptation Planning: A Health in All Policies Approach | Climate and Health Adaptation Planning: A Health in All Policies Approach, is the third in a three-part mini-series in the Catalyst Communities Webinar Series focusing on integrating health considerations into climate adaptation planning. Applying the concepts shared in the first two webinars from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Michigan Climate and Health Adaptation Program (MICHAP) - Climate and Health Adaptation Planning Guide for Michigan Communities, this session aims to show how community engagement and support for climate adaptation can be enhanced through use of before and after images of climate adaptations for specific sites in a community. The webinar will also detail how landscape performance metrics can be quantified for example site designs with respect to onsite stormwater management. By participating in the three-part webinar series, communities will be positioned to engage with MICHAP in a future technical assistance planning opportunity. | Climate |
| 1/24/24 | Planning for Sustainable Small Harbors: Project Overview & Useful Tools | This webinar will feature the work of the Sustainable Small Harbors project, designed to help coastal community leaders assess and strengthen their waterfront assets. The project team recently published a guidebook for communities interested in developing and implementing long-term environmental, economic, and social sustainability plans. Attendees will gain an in-depth understanding of the project and learn about relevant tools to help communities navigate coastal planning. | Climate |
| 12/13/23 | Michigan Green Communities New Sustainability Plan Resource Kit Tutorial and Program Updates |
The Michigan Green Communities (MGC) program is announcing the release of a sustainability plan resource kit! This tool will help Michigan communities embed sustainability into their operations and policies, as well as set them up for pursing federal and state climate and infrastructure funding. Join MGC program staff during this webinar to learn more about:
Michigan Green Communities is open to all cities, villages, townships, and counties in Michigan at no cost. This webinar is intended for both current and prospective participants. |
Climate |
| 4/26/22 | Lessons Learned in Creating a Municipal Climate Action Plan | Local governments play an essential role in paving the path toward net-zero carbon emissions, but navigating this task isn't easy. This webinar will help local governments understand how to get started on their decarbonization journey. The City of Royal Oak will lean on their recent experience to provide tips for developing a community-wide greenhouse gas inventory and sustainability action plan. | Climate |
| 10/23/24 | “Net Zero” for Local Governments: Braiding Technologies to Deliver Efficient, Renewable Buildings | Many are familiar with the concept of braiding complementary funding sources to achieve local clean energy projects. This webinar will extend the metaphor to the physical realm: That is, braiding various “net zero” building technologies—envelope upgrades, heat pumps, on-site renewable electricity and storage, and EV charging—to achieve integrated, high-performance buildings. Learn about strategies to holistically improve the energy efficiency of local government buildings to reduce carbon, improve the health and safety of occupants, AND save your community money by significantly reducing monthly utility bills. Experts from skilled trade associations will explain how the integrated “net zero” approach to renovations and new construction projects can work for local governments, offering advice on getting started and engaging with relevant skilled trades professionals in your region. They will also share how you can turn this approach into persuasive funding proposals that will make these projects even bigger financial winners for your community. |
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 9/18/24 | Energy Justice Through Utility-Sponsored Community Solar in Michigan — What is Possible? | Is true "community" solar possible in Michigan without legislation enabling third-party ownership? Are utility-sponsored community solar models capable of delivering energy just outcomes to low-to-moderate income (LMI) households? In this webinar, we will help you answer these questions using a case example. In 2019, the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy partnered with the Village of L'Anse and WPPI Energy to create an LMI community solar program. Karl Hoesch, doctoral candidate at the University of Michigan, School for Environment and Sustainability, will share his evaluation of the energy justice outcomes of that program. He will discuss the outcomes of this Clean Energy for Low Income Communities Accelerator project, share what worked in L'Anse from the perspective of participating residents, and offer insights about what best practices might be replicated using newly available federal resources. Local government officials and employees, small and medium sized businesses, and nonprofits could all benefit from joining us for this | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 8/28/24 | MI Solar Communities Guidebook | Join us for an insightful webinar, where Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association (GLREA) will provide an overall executive summary of their MI Solar Communities Guidebook. The overall goal of the guidebook is to provide help to local government, organizations and individuals learn more about renewable energy, with an emphasis on solar, and to provide the resources to support deployment. This webinar will help provide insight on deployment of renewable energy in Michigan, resources to support deployment, Community Solar - what it is and how it works, GLREA’s Solarize program, utilizing other sources of renewable and energy storage. Don’t miss an opportunity to learn more about the future of solar in Michigan. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 8/21/24 | Navigating the New Renewable Energy Siting Legislation: Insights for Local Governments | In November 2023, the Michigan legislature passed the Clean Energy Future Package and the Clean Energy and Jobs Act, which included legislation that drastically alters the landscape of siting renewable energy projects in the state. Local governments, from cities to villages to townships to counties, play a key role in siting renewable energy and are now faced with understanding and adapting to this new landscape. How can your community prepare for these changes and approach challenges? Attend this webinar to learn about planning and zoning for utility-scale renewable energy in the context of the new siting process. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 7/31/24 | Partnering with Underserved Communities on Clean Energy Projects and Manufacturing | The Partnering with Underserved Communities on Clean Energy Projects and Manufacturing webinar will provide an overview of how to work collaboratively to develop clean energy projects or clean energy manufacturing in underserved communities. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about the significant federal and local government programs aimed at directing investments and benefits to support clean energy initiatives in underserved, distressed, and energy legacy communities. The event will share examples of how to create ownership and value-added opportunities for the communities where you are hosting projects and how to connect with neighborhood organizations, economic development groups and other non-government organizations contacts in underserved communities. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 4/24/24 | Home Energy Rebates Program Closing Listening Session | The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) will host a closing virtual listening session for the home energy rebates program to invite feedback on the implementation of the Michigan Home Efficiency Rebates Program (IRA Section 50121), and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates Program (IRA Section 50122). The Home Efficiency Rebates will provide funding to lower the upfront cost of whole-home energy efficiency upgrades in single-family and multi-family homes aiding retrofitting and electrification efforts. The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates will help finance the upfront cost of efficient electric technologies in single-family and multi-family homes. |
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 3/27/24 | Catalyst Communities Webinar Series: Empowering Communities through Energy Storage & the MI Solar Access Program | Join us for an insightful webinar, where we will explore the benefits that energy storage offers to expand renewable energy projects. This webinar will provide an overview of energy storage technologies and how it can lead to cost savings, improve overall grid reliability, and enhance sustainability. Additionally, we will examine how energy storage can be utilized during power outages, integrated with renewable energy, and help reduce peak demand. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable information about the MI Solar Access Program and how local governments and businesses can qualify to submit an application to fund a Community Solar, Solarize, or Energy Storage System project. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 3/26/24 | Home Energy Rebates Program Opening Listening Session | The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) will host an opening virtual listening session for the Home Energy Rebates Program to invite feedback on the implementation of the Home Efficiency Rebates Program (IRA Section 50121) and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates Program (IRA Section 50122). The Home Efficiency Rebates will provide funding to lower the upfront cost of whole-home energy efficiency upgrades in single-family and multi-family homes aiding retrofitting and electrification efforts. The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates will help finance the upfront cost of efficient electric technologies in single-family and multi-family homes. The agenda will start with education around the home energy rebates program, with most of the session focused on hearing about top community priorities, barriers to implementation of the home rebates program, and Environmental Justice considerations in formulating potential implementation projects. |
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 3/20/24 | Home Energy Rebates Program Kick-off Webinar | The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) authorized the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to carry out the Home Energy Rebates Program to help households save money on energy bills, improve energy efficiency, and reduce indoor and outdoor air pollution. The Home Energy Rebates Program consist of two programs: the Home Efficiency Rebates (IRA Section 50121) and the Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (IRA Section 50122). The Home Efficiency Rebates will provide funding to lower the upfront cost of whole-home energy efficiency upgrades in single-family and multi-family homes aiding retrofitting and electrification efforts. The Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates will help finance the upfront cost of efficient electric technologies in single-family and multi-family homes. Join us for the Michigan Home Energy Rebates Planning Kickoff webinar, where we will begin discussing state implementation of the Home Energy Rebates Program in preparation for hosting virtual and in-person listening sessions. |
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 3/5/24 | Renewables Ready Communities Award: Request for Proposal and Application Overview Webinar | In 2023, the State of Michigan's budget allocated $30 million for the incentivization of renewable energy. As such, the Renewables Ready Communities Award will grant up to $5,000 per megawatt to Michigan municipalities involved in eligible renewable energy projects which attained local permits on or after October 1st, 2023. In this webinar we will discuss the award's eligibility criteria, application process, and intended awardees. This webinar is intended for Michigan communities that permitted or expect to host any portion of a renewable energy project of at least 50 MW, the developers of said projects, or any party interested in Michigan's renewable energy landscape. If you want to learn more about this funding opportunity, or are unsure if this applies to your community, you are encouraged to attend! | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 1/26/24 | Community Energy Management Program Request for Proposal and Application Overview Webinar | The Community Energy Management (CEM) Program has been amended to expand the total amount of funding available, eligible projects areas, and the maximum award size. These changes were made possible by additional federal funding from the State Energy Program’s (SEP) Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) allocation and the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) allocation. This webinar will highlight the additional funding and increased award sizes that are available, along with the expanded eligible project areas that communities can consider when applying. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 12/04/23 | MI Solar Communities: Utilization of Geothermal and Other Resources | This webinar provides information for advocates, organizations, and local governments about energy efficiency and geothermal energy, as presented in the updated Michigan Solar Communities Guidebook. The guidebook features content about resources, sustainable finance options, and examples of community solar models that fit into Michigan’s framework. This webinar is designed to provide attendees with an understanding of geothermal energy and how to access other related resources to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Join us to learn the basics of geothermal energy, participation in initiatives like NCSP, and case studies of community scale geothermal systems in Michigan. |
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 11/27/23 | MI Solar Communities: Reducing the Cost of Solar through Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association (GLREA) Solarize | Reducing the Cost of Solar through GLREA Solarize is a webinar that aims to provide information for local governments, businesses, non-profit organizations, or community groups on how to group buy residential solar, as presented in the updated Michigan Solar Communities Guidebook. The guidebook features content about resources, sustainable finance options, and examples of community solar models that fit into Michigan’s framework. GLREA Solarize is a program that supports communities’ effort to make going solar more affordable and easier to access for individuals. Come to the webinar and learn about the basics of Solarize, which will include topics such as the partnership between the community and an installer, community outreach and education, examples of Solarize models and more. |
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 11/01/23 | MI Solar Communities: How to Finance and Develop a Community Solar Project | MI Solar Communities: How to Finance and Develop a Community Solar Project is a webinar that aims to provide information for advocates, organizations and local governments on how to finance and develop a community solar project, as presented in the updated Michigan Solar Communities Guidebook. The Michigan Solar Communities Guidebook features content about resources, sustainable finance options and examples of community solar models that fit into Michigan’s framework. You won’t want to miss on this opportunity to learn what deployment and investment in solar energy means in Michigan. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 10/17/23 | Streamlining Solar Permitting and Benefits of SolSmart for Michigan’s Local Governments | Streamlining Solar Permitting and Benefits of SolSmart for Local Governments webinar will cover why Michigan’s municipalities should consider participation in SolSmart and SolarAPP+. The permitting and inspection process is one of the most important tools that local governments have at their disposal to encourage solar energy installations. Streamlining the permitting process can help communities and homeowners go solar more easily. For local governments considering solar energy adoption, come learn how you can become a SolSmart designee and streamline your permitting process through the SolarAPP+. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 3/02/23 | Clean Energy Technology Adoption within Michigan's Manufacturing Sector | Addressing industrial carbon emissions is essential in meeting Michigan’s greenhouse gas emission reductions obligation under the United State Climate Alliance (i.e., Executive Directive 2019-12) to avoid the many challenges posed by climate change. Industry roadmaps are a proven technique for providing strategic guidance for economic development efforts to accelerate innovation and commercial activity, and are a dynamic tool for setting priorities, allocating resources, aligning stakeholders, and focusing efforts. This webinar seeks to showcase the roadmap of clean energy technology adoption in Michigan’s industrial sector. Accelerating the adoption of technologies that decrease energy use during production is a critical avenue to achieving decarbonization goals. This webinar will outline the clean energy technology adoption roadmap and value chain, specifically focusing on manufacturers’ adoption post-meter in two areas: energy production and energy efficiency. Dr. Sarah Crane, the research lead from the Economic Growth Institute at the University of Michigan, will discuss her findings from this project focused on clean energy technology adoption by industry in Michigan, along with identified gaps and opportunities. |
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 2/28/23 | Opportunities for Renewable Energy in Michigan’s Commercial and Industrial Sector | The webinar will feature the work conducted from the Michigan Clean Energy Assets Roadmap Program. Growing Michigan’s renewable and clean energy industries represents a multibillion-dollar economic opportunity, with significant additional benefits, such as, being environmentally clean, energy-efficient, and providing a cost-effective approach essential in meeting Michigan’s greenhouse gas emission reductions obligation under the United State Climate Alliance (i.e., Executive Directive 2019-12) necessary to avoiding the many challenges posed by climate change. Industry roadmaps are a proven technique for providing strategic guidance for economic development efforts to accelerate innovation and commercial activity, and are a dynamic tool for setting priorities, allocating resources, aligning stakeholders, and focusing efforts. The Michigan Clean Energy Asset Roadmaps for renewable energy (wind, solar and geothermal) sectors was developed to quantify (i.e., map) each sector and identify, evaluate, and detail opportunities to significantly accelerate sector growth. This webinar seeks to showcase the current catalog of renewable energy resources in Michigan, as well as understand market impediments and what it takes to grow the renewable energy sectors in Michigan. In this webinar, Loch McCabe and Dan Radomski, both research leads from the Centrepolis Accelerator at Lawrence Technological University, will discuss their findings from this project focused on wind, solar, and geothermal products, technologies currently in use in Michigan, along with market and supply chain analysis. |
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 7/12/22 | Fundamentals of Energy Savings Performance Contracting in Michigan | Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) offers states, localities, public infrastructure, and institutional facilities an opportunity to finance energy efficiency investments by leveraging the energy, water and operational cost savings that projects achieve over time. While ESPC projects have already financed over $50 billion in energy-saving investments, estimates by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory show there could be over $300 billion in additional cost-effective ESPC projects nationally. Facilities such as state and municipal buildings, universities, K-12 schools, and hospitals, as well as highway, street, and parking lot lighting are particularly well suited to these investments. This workshop will gather key stakeholders for ESPC projects throughout Michigan with a particular emphasis on reaching underserved communities, provide an overview of how to apply this financing mechanism in Michigan, and hear from facility managers who have implemented these projects. |
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 1/13/22 | Rental Home Energy Programs and Policies for Cities | RMI and EcoWorks recently supported a cohort of 10 cities in Michigan working to address energy use and equity in rental housing. These cities modeled best practices from leading examples across the country to develop policies and programs in partnership with local community-based organizations. All resources and content produced by this cohort are being made freely available to other Michigan municipalities. RMI and EcoWorks will review the curriculum of this engagement, reflect on outcomes and lessons learned, and detail the resources that other municipalities can use to inform and accelerate their own efforts. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 10/08/21 | How to Become a Solar-Friendly Community Through SolSmart | SolSmart is a national designation program that provides technical assistance and recognition to local governments who take action to promote solar energy growth. In this session, learn about the basics of SolSmart and how your community can achieve SolSmart designation. Additionally, hear from SolSmart designees in Michigan to gain insight on how to navigate the program. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 9/23/21 | Experiences with Michigan Community Solar | Community solar is a hot topic in Michigan, but do you know what it actually entails? In this session, learn about the various definitions of community solar, what’s been done in Michigan thus far, and how low-income community members can benefit. Also hear from experts who helped establish some of the state's early community solar projects as they share their experiences and lessons learned. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 8/11/21 | EPA Climate and Energy Resources for Local Governments | The State and Local Climate and Energy Program from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers a multitude of tools and publications to help local governments reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy efficiency, and explore renewable energy options. In this session, hear from EPA representatives as they walk through key resources for Michigan local governments to help formulate cost-effective, energy saving strategies and achieve cross-cutting community benefits. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 7/13/21 | Sustainable Wastewater Infrastructure and Energy Savings with SWIFt | The Department of Energy's Sustainable Wastewater Infrastructure of the Future (SWIFt) Accelerator is partnering with the state of Michigan to help reduce energy consumption and adopt next-generation technologies at local wastewater treatment facilities across the state. Learn about the various opportunities provided by SWIFt, including a new Wastewater Energy Management Toolkit, to help municipalities engage with their water utility and find ways to save energy. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 6/17/21 | Clean Energy Financing Through Michigan Saves | In this session, learn about the nation's first nonprofit green bank, Michigan Saves. Originally established through a Michigan Public Service Commission grant, this now independent bank provides energy consumers with low-interest financing for their efficiency improvements through partnerships with private-sector lenders. Hear the details from a Michigan Saves expert as well as real community experiences from a local municipality and their partners. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 5/13/21 | Financing Energy Efficiency Improvements Using Energy Savings Performance Contracts | While clean energy improvements save utility customers money over time, some property owners find it challenging to finance the upfront costs of energy efficiency upgrades or renewable energy projects. Local governments can help building owners overcome this hurdle by creating a PACE (or Property Assessed Clean Energy) district, which allows building owners to access longer-term loans through a voluntary special assessment on their property tax bill. In this webinar, learn about PACE financing from Lean & Green Michigan, a public-private partnership that serves as the statewide administrator of the PACE program for 47 local governments around the state. Elise Matz and Todd Williams of Lean & Green Michigan are joined by local county treasurers, Eric Schertzing of Ingham County and Bob Robinson of Eaton County to share their experiences using PACE. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 4/27/21 | Planning & Zoning for Utility-Scale Solar | Have you heard of solar farms in other communities, but don’t know if your community would be interested or a good fit? Perhaps you have already started zoning and want to share your experiences? In this session, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about planning and zoning for utility-scale solar energy (projects spanning at least 20 acres) and provide practical tools to help accomplish your local government's goals. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 4/13/21 | Planning & Zoning for Utility-Scale Wind | Wind energy technology has changed in the last decade, and many zoning ordinances haven’t kept pace. Does your ordinance need an update? In this session, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about planning and zoning for wind energy and provide practical tools to help accomplish your local government's goals. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 3/30/21 | Introduction to Planning & Zoning for Wind and Solar | From wide-open rural areas to compact cities, Michigan is beginning the transition to alternative energy. To prepare for the development of wind and solar in your community, Dr. Sarah Mills and Hannah Smith from the University of Michigan’s Graham Sustainability Institute discuss the positives and negatives, and why planners - especially those in rural communities - need to start planning and zoning for renewable energy now. This webinar is the first in a three part mini-series geared towards helping local Michigan governments on determining whether, how, and where clean energy fits within their community. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 3/17/21 | Helping Facilitate Rooftop Solar in Your Community | The cost of solar panels has dramatically decreased over the last few years, making rooftop (or small ground-mounted) solar energy accessible to more Michiganders. But many homeowners may be unaware of this changing landscape or unsure where to start. Julie Roth of Ann Arbor’s A2Zero discusses Solarize, a bulk-buy solar program and a new toolkit to help bring the benefits of distributed generation to more households. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 3/2/21 | Facilitating Community-wide Clean Energy Improvements Using PACE Financing | While clean energy improvements save utility customers money over time, some property owners find it challenging to finance the upfront costs of energy efficiency upgrades or renewable energy projects. Local governments can help building owners overcome this hurdle by creating a PACE (or Property Assessed Clean Energy) district, which allows building owners to access longer-term loans through a voluntary special assessment on their property tax bill. In this webinar, learn about PACE financing from Lean & Green Michigan, a public-private partnership that serves as the statewide administrator of the PACE program for 47 local governments around the state. Elise Matz and Todd Williams of Lean & Green Michigan are joined by local county treasurers, Eric Schertzing of Ingham County and Bob Robinson of Eaton County to share their experiences using PACE. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 2/21/21 | Conducting Energy Audits on Municipal Facilities | Conducting an energy audit--reviewing utility bills and physically inspecting facilities--can help communities identify opportunities to reduce energy use and save money. An energy audit can be conducted on a specific system (e.g., HVAC system) or can include an entire building to help determine which improvements are the best investments for your community. In this webinar, Tracey Laitinen (Operations Manager, Sault Ste. Marie), Eric Witte (Deputy Director of Public Works, Dearborn), and Dave Norwood (Sustainability Coordinator, Dearborn) share their experiences and tips conducting energy audits. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 1/21/21 | Using EZMT Online Mapping to Plan for Clean Energy: Presentation | Developed by the US Department of Energy, the Energy Zones Mapping Tool (EZMT) is a publicly available online resource which provides data, models, and reports for nine different energy categories (i.e. wind, solar, coal). It is a one-stop-shop for understanding a community’s existing energy infrastructure and its potential for future clean energy infrastructure. Users can draw boundaries, overlay land characteristics, plot electrical substations and transmission lines, and model potential power generation. This session provides an overview of the tool, focusing on features of greatest interest to land use planners, with Jim Kuiper of the Argonne National Laboratory. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 1/21/21 | Using EZMT Online Mapping to Plan for Clean Energy: Demo | Developed by the US Department of Energy, the Energy Zones Mapping Tool (EZMT) is a publicly available online resource which provides data, models, and reports for nine different energy categories (i.e. wind, solar, coal). It is a one-stop-shop for understanding a community’s existing energy infrastructure and its potential for future clean energy infrastructure. Users can draw boundaries, overlay land characteristics, plot electrical substations and transmission lines, and model potential power generation. This session provides a live demonstration of the tool, focusing on features of greatest interest to land use planners, with Jim Kuiper of the Argonne National Laboratory. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 10/22/20 | Energy Benchmarking for Municipal Facilities | Benchmarking is a process that gives municipalities the ability to track the energy use of their buildings and compare them to similar existing buildings nationwide. Whether your community has just one municipal building or dozens, this session gives information about the multiple tools and programs that can be used to determine and track the energy your facilities are using. April Avigne, Energy Coordinator for Washtenaw County and Bob LaFave, Manager in the Village of L’Anse share their experiences with benchmarking in their respective municipalities. The webinar begins with the two guests providing overviews and then transitions into a conversation with question and answer. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 10/15/20 | The Michigan Energy Code Adoption Process | The Michigan Energy Code sets the minimum energy efficiency requirements for new construction and major renovation projects in the state. With an update to the state Code about to begin, this session teaches you how the code adoption process works and the ways in which local governments can participate in that process. First, hear from EGLE’s Jake Wilkinson who provides an overview of what the energy code is intended to do. Then Jon Paradine of the Bureau of Construction Codes at the Department of Licensing & Regulatory Affairs (LARA), talks more specifically about the Michigan Energy Code. Lastly the Bureau’s Attorney, Tony Snyder, shares how that code gets updated and the opportunities for community involvement. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 10/7/20 | EGLE’s Energy Efficiency Programs for Communities | Join the State Energy Program Specialist, Julie Staveland, and the EGLE Community Programs Coordinator, Miles Biel, as they introduce EGLE’s wide variety of Energy Services and Community Energy Management programs. Dedicated to promoting healthy communities, economic growth, and environmental sustainability through energy efficiency and renewable energy, EGLE Energy Services offers programs to catalyze growth and jumpstart Michigan entities to reach their own energy goals. To assist in these efforts, Community Energy Management meets communities wherever they are on the energy management spectrum. Hear what programs and levels of assistance are available, including success stories from across the state. | Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy |
| 9/14/22 | Introduction to Health in All Policies | Public health and urban planning have a shared history and common goals. As Michigan faces more extreme weather events and a changing climate, local governments should consider how climate and health intersect and how that shows up in local policies, planning, and zoning. Health in All Policies is a collaborative approach to improving the health of all people by incorporating health considerations into decision-making across sectors and policy areas. This Webinar, presented by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Service's Michigan Climate Health Adaptation Program (MICHAP), the Michigan Green Communities Program, and EGLE’s Catalyst Communities program, will give participants a chance to apply a climate health lens to their work. | Improving Health Outcomes |
| 5/19/22 | Resources and Guidance for Enhancing Local Urban Forestry Programs | Urban forestry, or the management of trees in city settings, can improve community and environmental health. In this webinar, the Department of Natural Resources will discuss urban forestry best practices and upcoming grant funding opportunities. The City of Grand Rapids will also provide insight on how to incorporate resiliency, equity, and sustainability into tree planting and maintenance initiatives. | Improving Health Outcomes |
| 2/19/25 | Materials Management Planning Grant Application | This webinar explains details regarding the 2025 Materials Management Planning Grant Program. The webinar is specifically for County Approval Agencies and their Designated Planning Agencies who will be developing and implementing their new Materials Management Plans. All County Approval Agencies, Designated Planning Agencies, and those who will be responsible for managing the grant project are encouraged to join the webinar to hear directly from EGLE’s Materials Management Planning staff and learn about EGLE’s expectations for this new grant program. | Materials Management |
| 1/15/25 | Zero Food Waste Planning: Strategies for Local Governments | This webinar will delve into how communities can approach planning around food waste reduction to realize its environmental, economic, and social benefits. By developing and implementing food waste reduction strategies, cities, townships, and villages have an opportunity to support their county’s Materials Management Plan. Hear from one city about how they created a food waste reduction implementation plan focused on source reduction, food rescue, upcycling, and organics recycling. | Materials Management |
| 11/20/24 | Supporting a Healthy Circular Economy through Municipal Sustainable Purchasing | Implementing sustainable purchasing policies can help local governments prioritize the procurement of safer, more sustainable products and consider the environmental and social equity impacts of purchasing decisions. This webinar will explore the benefits of sustainable purchasing and highlight some of the resources and tools available for developing a sustainable purchasing policy for your community. Examples from Michigan and other communities will be shared. | Materials Management |
| 7/17/24 | Prioritizing Food Waste Reduction Efforts in Michigan – Action at the State Level | Cutting food waste in half by 2030 is key to Michigan’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality. Attend this webinar to learn more about how state agencies are paving the way to cut back on food waste. Experts will also discuss ways local governments can get involved and encourage food waste reduction efforts in their own communities. | Materials Management |
| 6/26/24 | Turning Waste into Gold: Composting at the Local Government Level | In the US, an estimated 30 to 40 percent of food produced ends up wasted. Encouraging and educating your residents to compost is a strategy to help keep food and yard waste out of Michigan landfills. Composting has both environmental and economic benefits and contributes to the development of a circular economy. This webinar will provide an overview of how local governments can begin thinking about composting in their communities. Attendees will hear about efforts from a Michigan community with a successful composting program. They will also learn about how local governments can educate and encourage residents to start composting at home, as well as create community wide programs. | Materials Management |
| 11/14/23 | Tools and Resources to Help Communities Navigate Materials Management | With amendments to Part 115 of Michigan’s Solid Waste Law going into effect earlier this year, now is a great time to learn what tools and resources EGLE offers to communities to assist them with their materials management programs. In this webinar, recycling specialists from EGLE will explain how they are helping Michigan communities navigate the complexities of these program changes. They will also elaborate on available technical assistance and educational services, as well as highlight grant opportunities communities can apply to for help funding successful materials management programs. | Materials Management |
| 10/05/23 | Understanding and Preparing for Changes to Part 115: Materials Management Planning | In March 2023, amendments to Part 115 of Michigan’s Solid Waste Law went into effect. These amendments have provided a broader approach to handling end-of-life materials including a new Materials Management Plan (Plan). This webinar will describe how the Plan will consider management of solid waste, recyclables, organics, and other related activities. Learn about new requirements, timelines, resources, and technical assistance opportunities that pertain to the Part 115 updates. |
Materials Management |
| 11/15/21 | Building Community Resilience Through Recycling | This presentation is a panel discussion with local leaders on how and why communities have structured recycling programs to be a sustainable pillar amid a multitude of competing social, economic, and environmental pressures. |
Materials Management |
| 11/2/21 | Recycling, Composting, and Circular Economy Solutions for Your Community | This presentation brings together two exciting EGLE initiatives - Catalyst Communities and Michigan NextCycle - to highlight the important role of the circular economy in tackling climate change. While many climate solutions are daunting, food waste reductions, composting, recycling, and green purchasing are all under Michigan communities' control and accelerate our low carbon economy. NextCycle Michigan has grant and technical assistance solutions to support your community's (and public and private partners) success. Please join us to hear more about NextCycle, Michigan's growing Circular Economy, and the role of local governments. | Materials Management |
| 3/24/21 | Remanufacturing: Sustainable by Definition. Responsible by Design | Like-new, but better, remanufacturing is a standardized process that produces finished goods that are better for the environment, offer better value for end-users and maintain their like-new quality. How is it done? What should all buyers know? In this webinar, you will learn more about sustainable manufacturing and why the three main attributes associated with the process are: Quality, Value and Green. You will also learn about Manufactured Again Certification-where traditional manufacturing and remanufacturing are held to the same international quality standards. |
Materials Management |
| 8/23/23 | How to Incorporate Non-Motorized Transportation/Complete Streets into Planning | Complete Streets, including the integration of non-motorized transportation infrastructure, offers an approach to planning that accommodates safe and functional mobility for all types of users, including drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and public transportation riders. By increasing options for non-motorized and shared transportation options, communities can improve safety and reduce harmful environmental impacts. This webinar will highlight how communities can incorporate non-motorized transportation elements and a Complete Streets framework into their planning processes to promote sustainable mobility systems. | Mobility |
| 3/2/22 | Electric Vehicle Planning Resources for Communities | As the transportation sector continues to shift towards electrification, now is the time for local governments to prepare for the influx of electric vehicles (EV). In this webinar, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG) will highlight their EV Resource Kit and Planning Hub - a one-stop destination for EV information, charging infrastructure data, planning tools, and funding sources. Additionally, several communities from Southeast Michigan will speak to their experience using this resource and offer advice on how other communities can become EV-ready. | Mobility |
| 10/15/21 | Decarbonizing Your Commute | Your commute - it's one of the most stressful parts of the workday. Not only does it cost time and money, but it is also a major source of carbon dioxide and air pollution. Decarbonizing your commute is good for your wallet, health, and the environment. In this webinar, learn from transportation experts in Ann Arbor about how to reduce vehicle miles traveled, strategies for achieving carbon neutral mobility, and tips for using a free survey tool to benchmark and track greenhouse gas reductions associated with commuting. | Mobility |
| 10/13/21 | Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicle Electrification: Challenges, Successes, and Resources | Electrification of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles in Michigan is brand new to many. In this webinar three panelists share their story about the challenges, successes, and resources they encountered in their journey to electrification. In this webinar you'll learn about: Electric trucks driving real routes, carrying real freight in a real-world electric truck technology demonstration An online educational resource for learning about electrification of transportation designed for a curriculum in schools in Michigan's Upper Peninsula; and Michigan's first electric school bus pilot on the road as one of the first states to electrify school busses. In this webinar participants will also hear about upcoming grant funding that will soon be available for converting from diesel medium- and heavy-duty vehicles to electric. |
Mobility |
| 9/24/21 | You'll Never Walk Alone: Using Tools & Resources for Local Government Clean Fleets | Now is a great time to start planning for and taking steps to procure clean fuels and vehicles. A number of tools and resources exist to help local governments lower fleet emissions and use domestic fuels. Learn from Michigan Clean Cities representatives on how to leverage these tools and resources to best meet your community's clean transportation goals. | Mobility |
| 10/13/22 | Federal Funding Success Stories for Local and Tribal Government | This webinar features communities and tribes using federal grants to fund climate and energy projects and will discuss new funding opportunities, lessons learned, and tips on federal grants. | Federal Funding Technical Assistance |
| 9/28/22 | How to Plan For, Apply For, and Manage Federal Grants | This webinar focuses on how communities can identify priority projects and plan for funding, how to apply for federal grants using Grants.gov, and how to manage and report on grants that are awarded. | Federal Funding Technical Assistance |
| 9/21/22 | Understanding IIJA: How Local & Tribal Governments Can Access Federal Funding | This webinar provides an overview of IIJA, IRA, and the Justice 40 Initiative, go over some promising grants programs, and share resources and technical assistance available. | Federal Funding Technical Assistance |
