The most discussion centered around the potential implementation of a food waste composting initiative in Franklin Township. The commission is considering a pilot program that could divert waste from landfills, thereby reducing tipping fees and overall emissions. The initiative’s environmental benefits were highlighted, with the process converting food waste into energy, despite generating methane—a potent greenhouse gas. The commission examined insights from a composting organization serving over 200 households in Princeton and West Windsor. This initiative reportedly reduced around 13,000 pounds of food waste over four months, equating to a reduction of 53 pounds of CO2 emissions.

There was interest in collaborating with the Canal Walk environmental committee to explore running a pilot program that could gather valuable metrics before committing to a township-wide initiative. However, concerns were raised regarding the program’s financial structure, particularly the lack of clarity about potential costs after an initial free period. The commission expressed a desire to gather more detailed information to understand the financial implications better before proceeding. A potential visit to a biogas facility was discussed to gain further insights into the operations and feasibility of implementing a similar program in Franklin.

In a related but separate discussion, the commission touched on the potential reactivation of nuclear plants, specifically referencing Three Mile Island, amid federal conversations about nuclear energy as a clean energy source. The commission noted that the Biden Administration is considering plans to recommission decommissioned nuclear reactors to meet rising demands for emissions-free electricity. Proposals for recommissioning nuclear plants in Michigan and Pennsylvania were highlighted, with some members expressing skepticism about the economic viability of these older plants. The conversation also referenced modular nuclear reactors, similar to those used in submarines, as a potentially viable option for future energy solutions. However, the operational costs and aging infrastructure of existing nuclear plants pose significant challenges to their reactivation.

The commission also discussed a planned film screening of the “Green Amendment,” with scheduling issues arising due to room availability. The date of November 14 was proposed, contingent on the availability of Senator Linda Greenstein, who had been contacted for her presence at the event. Concerns were raised about the effectiveness of the engagement if attendance was low, given that the previous screening attracted around 50 attendees. To bolster interest, the commission aimed to reach out to neighboring environmental commissions in Montgomery, Hillsboro, New Brunswick, and Highland Park.

An update on the Electric Vehicle (EV) certification was provided, noting that a draft article had been created to highlight this achievement. Although feedback was given on the draft, significant revisions were deemed unnecessary. The article is expected to be ready for a vote at the next meeting. Discussions also included a poem submitted by a resident, intended to engage the community in environmental care initiatives. However, the commission sought a more factual approach to the article, focusing on spring and fall initiatives.

The meeting also addressed logistical matters, including promotional materials for upcoming tabling events, with updates on a backdrop and business cards intended for outreach efforts. The integration of QR codes was emphasized to ensure clear and accessible information for the public.