Naperville Environment and Sustainability Task Force

The Naperville Environment and Sustainability Task Force (NEST) is a dedicated group of citizens working collaboratively with the City of Naperville to shape a comprehensive climate action and sustainability plan. Established in 2018, NEST's primary mission is to provide guidance and recommendations for the creation of a citizen-driven, community-wide strategy aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing sustainability and resilience in Naperville until 2036, in line with global science-based standards. Formal engagement between NEST and the City of Naperville began in March 2019, gaining unanimous approval from the City Council. NEST's mandate encompasses the ambitious task of developing an all-encompassing sustainability plan for the community. This effort involves multiple committees, each responsible for formulating various aspects of the overarching plan. The culmination of these endeavors is the Sustainable Naperville 2036 report, a comprehensive guide forged through the collaboration of committee volunteers, City Staff, local businesses represented by the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, educational institutions like North Central College, and resident input gathered through surveys and outreach events. The core vision of Sustainable Naperville 2036 is to position Naperville as a climate-resilient city with significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions. The aim is to engage the community in the global fight against climate change, ensuring future generations inherit equal or improved opportunities and resources. Furthermore, the plan seeks to equip the city to effectively manage the challenges posed by the swiftly changing climate. NEST's approach underscores the need for a well-coordinated process built upon previous sustainability initiatives. This strategy aims to preserve Naperville's identity as an engaging, economically vibrant, socially responsible, and exemplary place to live, work, and visit.