Ulster County has become fully entrenched in the green initiative with its most recent piece of legislation.

County Executive Jen Metzger last week signed into law a bill that committed the county to a “zero-emission” vehicle fleet by 2035. The shift away from fuel-burning vehicles will include heavy-duty highway department trucks, public transit buses and sheriff’s department patrol cars.

It’s an aggressive measure and one that tells us that change is coming everywhere, not just in the big cities.

The summer resort of Block Island, located nine miles south of mainland Rhode Island, is powered by a series of offshore wind turbines. They generate enough electricity to serve the tourists and the 1,500 permanent residents of the island.

Closer to home, a number of farming communities are examining the potential of agrivoltaics, which allows crops to grow beneath large-scale solar installations. It’s another sign that the U.S. - like the rest of the world - is rapidly moving away from fossil fuels.

The New York Times reports that renewables are now expected to overtake coal by 2025 as the world’s largest source of electricity.

More can be done at the state and local level to foster use and investment in renewable energy.

- Financial incentives such as tax credits, grants and rebates for businesses and homeowners who install renewable energy systems can significantly reduce the upfront costs and make renewable energy more financially viable.

- Zoning regulations that encourage the development of renewable energy projects, such as solar farms or wind turbines, can significantly reduce the upfront costs and make renewable energy more financially viable.

- Municipalities can follow the lead of Ulster County and set ambitious renewable energy targets. Having clear goals signals a commitment to sustainable practices and can attract investors who share the same values.

- Offer vehicle charging stations in public locations like parks or municipal parking lots. Encourage local businesses to offer them as well.

Local municipalities can create a conducive environment for renewable energy investment. It will provide economic benefits to the community, while leading to a greener, more sustainable future.