"Leading New Jersey Toward Sustainability: My Case for the Sierra Club’s Endorsement"
New Jersey’s Green Future: My Commitment to Environmental Leadership
Throughout my life, I’ve demonstrated an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and justice. From sustainable agriculture to renewable energy, my journey has been one of action, advocacy, and hands-on leadership. As I seek the endorsement of the Sierra Club of New Jersey, I want to share the foundation of my environmental vision and how, as Governor, I will lead our state toward a more sustainable and just future.
Over the next few days and weeks, I will be discussing in detail real solutions to these pressing environmental issues. From tackling food insecurity with urban farming to accelerating our transition to renewable energy, I will lay out concrete steps to make New Jersey a leader in sustainability and climate resilience.
A Legacy of Environmental Action
Sustainable Agriculture and Farm-to-Table Practices
In the 1980s, my wife and I co-founded a restaurant where we cultivated an organic vegetable garden to supply fresh produce directly to our kitchen. Long before farm-to-table was a buzzword, we embraced the philosophy of local, organic food consumption to reduce our environmental footprint and promote healthier eating habits.
Organic Farming and Regenerative Agriculture
For decades, we maintained an organic garden, growing and sharing our produce with the community. After my wife passed away in 2017, I expanded my efforts by raising pasture-fed livestock, emphasizing ethical treatment and sustainable agricultural practices. My experience taught me a vital truth: healthy soil creates healthy plants, which lead to healthy food, ultimately fostering a healthier society.
Advocacy Through Food Production
In 2010, I launched Crazy Steve’s Concoctions, a pickle and salsa company designed to raise awareness about hunger and environmental sustainability. Through my foundation Pickles Against World Hunger, I collaborated with celebrity chefs to auction off signed jars and donate proceeds to Feeding America, helping those in need.
Disaster Relief and Community Support
Following Hurricane Sandy, I spearheaded the Rebuild The Jersey Shore campaign, selling t-shirts to support victims and working with Operation BBQ Relief to provide meals at firehouses and first aid squads. Our efforts delivered food and supplies to those struggling in the wake of devastation.
Renewable Energy Advocacy
Over the past eight years, I have actively promoted the transition to clean energy, helping homeowners break away from fossil-fuel dependency. By building and training teams nationwide in the solar industry, I have played a role in accelerating New Jersey’s shift toward renewable energy.
A Green Vision for New Jersey
Transitioning to Renewable Energy
New Jersey must move away from fossil fuels and embrace a future driven by renewable energy. My plan includes:
Expanding green manufacturing and renewable energy industries.
Creating sustainable jobs in solar, wind, and energy-efficient infrastructure.
Accelerating our transition to 100% clean electricity by 2035.
Support for Regenerative Agriculture
I will push for legislation that prioritizes organic farming and regenerative agriculture by:
Offering carbon capture credits and incentives for sustainable farming.
Establishing New Jersey as a national leader in soil health and agricultural innovation.
Urban Agriculture and Food Security
With over 50 food deserts in New Jersey, we must rethink how urban spaces are used. My vision includes:
Turning vacant lots and rooftops into thriving urban farms.
Creating food cooperatives to ensure fresh produce reaches underserved communities.
Promoting community-led initiatives that foster local economic growth.
A Strong Partnership with the Sierra Club
As Governor, I will work closely with the Sierra Club of New Jersey to implement these initiatives. Together, we will:
Commit to 100% Clean Energy – Enact policies to transition New Jersey to a fully renewable electricity grid by 2035.
Tackle Climate Change – Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 in partnership with the Sierra Club’s 50 x 30 Team.
Advance Environmental Justice – Ensure that no community is disproportionately impacted by pollution or environmental neglect.
Preserve Natural Resources – Safeguard wetlands, forests, and streams from overdevelopment.
Enhance Sustainable Transportation – Expand mass transit and develop infrastructure that prioritizes walkability and clean mobility.
Strengthen Environmental Legislation – Enshrine clean energy targets into law and bolster protections for our state’s natural resources.
This partnership will be an active, ongoing effort—built on collaboration, regular engagement, and shared commitment to making New Jersey a national leader in climate action.
New Jersey as a Climate Action Leader
By implementing these policies, we can position our state at the forefront of environmental justice and climate resilience. Embracing renewable energy, regenerative agriculture, and urban farming will not only combat climate change but also create sustainable economic opportunities for generations to come.
The future is green—let’s build it together.
