Chief Justice for Administration & Management Robert A. Mulligan today announced that the Trial Court’s Energy Task Force has launched a statewide paper recycling initiative. At a kick-off event at the Brooke Courthouse, the pilot site for this effort, Chief Justice Mulligan was joined by Trial Court Chief Justices and leaders from the Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), the Division for Capital Asset Management (DCAM), the Department of Energy Resources and the MBTA

            “Paper recycling is a simple, practical way for the Trial Court to engage employees, as we expand our conservation efforts across the state,” said Chief Justice Mulligan. “We have made great progress with electronic case management; however we are still major consumers of paper. We also are working with DCAM on several innovative energy management projects, since energy costs for the Trial Court are projected to reach $23 million this year.”

            MassDEP Deputy Commissioner Lucy Edmondson said, “The Patrick Administration is moving aggressively to cut energy usage, reduce our environmental footprint and find efficiencies in how we conduct business. The actions of Chief Justice Mulligan and the Trial Courts serve as welcome news -- MassDEP applauds this leadership, and we expect this example will be followed by others across the Commonwealth. Leadership in environmental progress is part of our state’s legacy, and we must continue to lead by example when it comes to protecting our environment.”

            Boston Municipal Court Chief Justice Charles Johnson described his personal commitment to conservation efforts and encouraged support by all Trial Court employees. MBTA Deputy Director Nancy Brooks discussed the benefits of purchasing T passes through payroll deduction – savings in gas, auto insurance and taxes. DCAM Deputy Commissioner Mark Nelson reported that the Trial Court is setting a “high standard” for other state agencies through its energy reduction efforts in partnership with DCAM.

            The Trial Court Energy Task Force, which was formed in May, identified recycling, energy management and education as three priority areas. In partnership with DCAM they are working to identify and prioritize courthouses that would benefit from energy and water conservation measures. They also are planning a demand response program that could curtail energy usage during weather or power emergencies.