KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The statewide Michigan Green Communities (MGC) program has once again recognized the City of Kalamazoo for its environmental leadership, earning Gold Certification designation. It is the third straight year that Kalamazoo has earned a gold ranking.
Local governments are awarded bronze, silver, gold, or platinum seals of achievement as part of the annual MGC Challenge. These achievements reflect community leadership in areas such as energy efficiency, climate adaptation and resilience, recycling, environmental justice and more.
City officials say Kalamazoo’s Gold status highlights exemplary action in multiple categories and examples of community leadership regarding several environmental initiatives. Contamination in the City’s curbside recycling system decreased by 54 percent in 2025. The City of Kalamazoo’s municipal compost collection program diverted 20 tons of food waste from landfills in 2025.
Kalamazoo’s quarterly EPS events drew over 2,000 visitors. The City’s use of biodiesel in place of traditional diesel fuel also has decreased related emissions by 12% with no decrease in service to residents.
In addition, through the City of Kalamazoo’s Buzz in the Zoo initiative, officials say they continue to encourage residents to rethink their place in the urban ecosystem and plant native species, remove invasive species, and provide quality habitat.
“The City of Kalamazoo is serious about its commitment to the environment,” said Justin Gish, sustainability planner, City of Kalamazoo. “Our goal is to reach the next step and attain Platinum and maximize our path toward complete sustainability. All City departments are working to meet the goals laid out in the City’s Community Sustainability Plan. Achieving Gold Certification again shows that we’re taking the right steps toward improving the quality of life for our community.”
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