Tompkins County Municipal Sustainability Conference

The Tompkins County Sustainability Conference 2025 is a unique opportunity for municipal leaders and sustainability professionals to collaborate, learn, and strategize around pressing climate and energy issues. This focused gathering brings together professionals from across the region to exchange strategies, share successful projects, and develop actionable plans for their communities. Through a mix of expert panels, peer-led project presentations, and action-planning sessions, attendees will gain practical tools to advance local sustainability initiatives, influence policy, and build regional partnerships. With a focus on real-world implementation—such as fleet electrification, building decarbonization, and community climate resilience—the conference is designed to help participants bring back actionable insights and collaborative frameworks that directly support their municipality’s goals. Attending offers both professional development and tangible value to the organizations and communities represented.

Please note: This event is intended for employees of municipal governments. Space is limited—register only if you work for a municipality.

Info: Join fellow attendees for a relaxed evening at a local brewery or bar. This optional gathering is all about building connections before the main conference begins. Expect casual introductions, a chance to share what you’re working on, and open conversations about the challenges and successes you’re seeing in municipal sustainability. We’ll also take a few moments to preview what’s ahead and help you start thinking about your goals for the week. Please note that while food and beverages are available on-site, they are not included.

Info: Spend the day diving into local and regional strategies for sustainability. We’ll start with a recap of Wednesday’s discussions and set goals for building collective impact, strengthening policy advocacy, and sharing municipal resources. A keynote speaker will offer insights on how municipalities can shape sustainability policy, followed by a panel exploring how to get more involved in state and regional initiatives. In the afternoon, attendees will share their own projects and receive feedback from peers, creating space for collaboration and shared learning. Depending on interest, we may wrap up with an informal evening social event. Breakfast and lunch will be available for all attendees.

Info: The final morning is all about translating conversations into action. We’ll review key takeaways from Thursday and work together to define regional advocacy goals and collaboration strategies. This includes identifying funding opportunities, setting up follow-up plans, and outlining how we’ll stay connected after the conference—whether through webinars, check-ins, or shared tools. We’ll end with a group discussion on what support attendees need to continue this work and how future gatherings can help move it forward. Breakfast will be available for all attendees.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Ithaca Downtown Conference Center, 116 East Green Street, Ithaca, United States