The Village of Croton-on-Hudson has been officially recognized by Westchester County for its pioneering environmental efforts, receiving a 2026 Eco Award for its successful transition to Renewable Diesel (RD) for its DPW diesel fleet. The award was presented by County Executive Ken Jenkins during the 7th Annual Eco Awards ceremony held at Tibbetts Brook Park in celebration of Earth Month.
The accolade highlights the Village’s commitment to immediate climate action. Following a successful three-month pilot program, Croton-on-Hudson transitioned its entire heavy-duty vehicle fleet, including garbage trucks and snow plows to Renewable Diesel. This “drop-in” fuel, derived from sustainable fats and oils, requires no engine modifications while providing a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
“This year’s Eco Award recipients, including the Village of Croton-on-Hudson, reflect the kind of commitment that keeps Westchester moving forward. By transitioning their heavy-duty fleet to Renewable Diesel, Croton is showing how local action can lead to meaningful results. Sustainability is built through consistent effort and continuous improvement, and we are proud to recognize Croton’s leadership in stepping up in a way that makes a real impact for a cleaner, more sustainable Westchester for all,” said County Executive Ken Jenkins.
“We are in a climate emergency and need to reduce emissions without delay. Renewable Diesel allows us to slash our municipal carbon footprint and avoid some 186 metric tons of CO2 pollution annually. The Sustainability Committee and the Department of Public Works have made a huge difference by helping us move to Renewable Diesel,” said Mayor Brian Pugh
“While we work toward the long-term goals of electrifying transportation and greening our grid, this award recognizes that we are not waiting to act. We are mitigating our impact on the environment today, while working towards a cleaner future. Thank you to the County for recognizing the importance of this transition,” said Lindsay Audin, Sustainability Committee Chair.
The initiative is funded entirely by the Village’s sustainability fund, generated by revenue from the community solar array at the DPW building, avoiding any additional cost to taxpayers. The Village’s 2025 RD trial program was inspired in part by Westchester County’s own use of the fuel at the County Airport.
The Eco Award is the latest recognition of the Village of Croton-on-Hudson’s environmental leadership. Croton-on-Hudson has consistently led the state’s Clean Energy Community rankings since 2023.
A complete video of the Eco Award ceremony can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALjPHcLZyXw
