Maritime Aquarium Receives $150,000 To Reduce Carbon Footprint

Information via the Maritime Aquarium

NORWALK, CT — The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk recently received $150,000 to purchase a combined heat and power generation system that will help to reduce the aquarium's carbon footprint.

According to a news release provided by the aquarium, the facility received the funds from Chubb, a world leader in insurance, through the Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act (NAA) Tax Credit Program.

"Advancing operational sustainability is a top priority for the aquarium, as provided in our strategic action plan and conservation action plan, and given our commitment to be carbon neutral by 2035," Maritime Aquarium CEO Jason Patlis said in a news release. "For more than five years, Chubb has been invaluable in helping us to integrate innovative and energy-efficient technologies. We are extremely grateful for their continued partnership."

Installing a CHP system at the aquarium will provide both environmental and economic benefits. It will help the facility achieve its goal of carbon neutrality and annually save the organization an estimated $200,000, according to the aquarium.

"The Maritime Aquarium is a revered regional marine and conservation institution, and we couldn’t be prouder to provide the NAA grant," Jon Pensa, senior vice president and New Haven branch manager of Chubb, said in a news release. "Countless Connecticut residents engage and participate in the aquarium's innovative STEM-education programs, which align with Chubb's broader corporate citizenship efforts to enhance and better the communities we serve."

A number of Chubb and aquarium representatives joined Patlis and Pensa for the presentation of the check.

According to the aquarium, the NAA Tax Credit Program is designed to provide funding for municipal and tax-exempt organizations by providing a corporation business tax credit for businesses who make cash contributions to these entities.

More information is available at www.maritimeaquarium.org.