Environmental Advisory Committee

Charlestown EAC Is Created

On January 7, 2019, The Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance #209-2019 creating the Environmental Advisory Committee. This group of seven individuals’ mission is to advise the Board of Supervisors on environmental issues, the protection and preservation of natural resources, the use of open land and creating inventories of natural areas with unique features. All of the aforementioned advice is to be focused within the Township and in the best interest and general welfare of its residents.

Programs

Plastics in Our Bodies and in the Environment – January 2020

This January 2020 program explains what plastics and microplastics are, where they come from, how plastic waste is disposed of, and how much is entering the environment. Carol Armstrong, PhD, will review studies measuring its presence in water, marine environments, soil, air, and our bodies, including health conditions that are associated based on knowledge known to date. We will discuss regulatory and policy plans that we can consider, and solutions being developed by individuals, communities, businesses, and science.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle – April 2021

Learn how we can reduce the amount of household waste we generate, including how to get started and maintain a compost pile.

Look Who’s Coming to Dinner? – August 2021

Learn the role of pollinators in our food production and environment. Create a garden buffet for pollinators using productive plants,

Pennsylvania Native Species Day – May 18, 2023

Native Species Day The EAC will host a Pennsylvania Native Species Day event at Brightside Farm Park on May 18, 2023. Our table is open 8:00 a.m. – noon, and 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. We are featuring a child's art contest and a quiz for adults. The quiz winner will receive two tickets for diner at a local restaurant. You can discuss the changes being made to the park and learn about Bird Town.

Discussion on Single-Use Plastics Ban in commercial establishments – September 5, 2023

On average, Americans get 12 minutes of usage out of plastic bags before throwing them in the garbage, where they don’t decompose for at least 450 years. Only 5-10% of plastic bags will ever be recycled.

Projects

Weed Warriors

Weed Warrior Program picture of pith-helmeted warrior Charlestown began a Weed Warrior program in 2022 to combat invasive plant species that are taking over our parks, to teach the identification of invasive species, and to recruit volunteers for the township program.

Bird Town Pennsylvania

Bird Town Pennsylvania works in partnership with local municipalities and like-minded organizations to promote community-based conservation actions to create a healthier, more sustainable environment for birds, wildlife, and people.

The program provides tools and resources for municipalities to engage, educate and empower their residents, schools and businesses to make more positive social, economic and ecologically friendly decisions and promotes a culture of conservation where everyone is a potential steward of nature in their own backyard and beyond.

Restoration of natural systems and native plant communities for birds, butterflies and other wildlife, on both private and public lands, has positive impacts on our communities including creating a healthier environment, reducing stormwater runoff, greenhouse gases and maintenance time, increasing property values and building community pride.

Visit the website to learn more: birdtownpa.org

Updated: September 6, 2023