The Lower Merion Conservancy is devoted to protecting and promoting environmental wellness throughout the Township. In doing so, sustainability is at the center of our work. The Conservancy defines sustainability as the design and implementation of systems and methods that work to address issues and enhance wellbeing in a manner that avoids deleterious impacts on the ecosystem in both the immediate and lasting future.

A major step towards creating a more sustainable Township has come in the form of the Single-Use Plastic Carry-Out Bag Ordinance that will take effect in January 2024. Plastic waste degrades our natural resources; it invades our waterways and endangers human health and wildlife. Plastic bags clog sewage and storm drains. They also break down into toxic microplastics that pollute our waterways and poison our ecosystem. Since 2019, the Conservancy has been a driving force on the ordinance and takes pride in its creation and adoption.

Back in August of 2021, Lower Merion Township began the process of creating a sustainability plan. As an unwavering advocate for greater sustainability within the community, the Conservancy immediately joined in this effort and has since been working closely with the Township throughout every step of its development. This work culminated in the Board of Commissioners formally receiving the Township’s first Sustainability Plan in June 2023.

Currently, the Conservancy helps in steering the work of Lower Merion Township’s Sustainability Committee. This includes engaging community members to ensure the Single-Use Plastic Carry-Out Bag Ordinance is implemented successfully. The work also involves planning for some of the Sustainability Plan’s larger goals. These goals include educating and empowering stakeholders, implementing standards for sustainable planning and design, enhancing resource management, minimizing waste, and reaching net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.