Montgomery County appoints new chief sustainability officer to lead environmental initiatives.
Montgomery County has appointed Devi Ramkissoon as its first Chief Sustainability Officer, marking a significant step in the county’s commitment to achieving ambitious sustainability objectives. With an extensive background in sustainable practices and economic development, Ramkissoon will oversee and guide the county’s sustainability initiatives, enhancing efforts to transition to clean energy and improve environmental conditions across the community.
The county’s current sustainability initiatives are framed within its Montco 2040 strategy, which includes financial incentives for businesses and homeowners to adopt clean energy sources. As part of its operational transition, Montgomery County is also in the process of establishing a hydroelectric power station located in Norristown. This multifaceted approach aims to drive the county toward its goal of obtaining 100% clean electricity for government assets by 2035 and transitioning to 100% renewable energy for heating and transportation by 2050.
Ramkissoon, previously the executive director of the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia, began her role within the county last month. She holds degrees from Swarthmore College and Georgetown University and has spent eight years with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), serving during the administrations of three U.S. presidents. Her leadership in the Sustainable Business Network included initiatives aimed at developing sustainable business practices, such as reducing food waste.
County officials created the Chief Sustainability Officer position to foster greater internal and external collaboration in sustainability efforts. Neil Makhija, chair of the county board of commissioners, emphasized that cohesive oversight is essential to meet the outlined sustainability goals. He expressed confidence that Ramkissoon’s leadership will provide a comprehensive view of ongoing practices, identifying opportunities for improvement and ensuring that Montgomery County remains at the forefront of sustainable development in the region.
In her new role, Ramkissoon will focus on developing and implementing a clear sustainability strategy for Montgomery County. Her immediate objective involves engaging with local municipalities and stakeholders to identify community-specific needs while forming partnerships with businesses to promote sustainable practices. The county has allocated an annual salary of 8,234 to Ramkissoon for her efforts.
As Montgomery County seeks to balance environmental integrity with economic growth and community resilience, Ramkissoon’s position is pivotal in driving sustainable initiatives that serve the region’s diverse stakeholders.
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