Norwalk, CT – The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk has received $150,000 from Chubb, a world leader in insurance, through the Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act (NAA) Tax Credit Program to apply to the purchase of a combined heat and power generation (CHP) system that will help to reduce the Aquarium’s carbon footprint.
“Advancing operational sustainability is a top priority for the Aquarium, as provided in our strategic action plan and conservation action plan, and given our commitment to be carbon neutral by 2035. For more than five years, Chubb has been invaluable in helping us to integrate innovative and energy-efficient technologies. We are extremely grateful for their continued partnership,” said Jason Patlis, President and CEO of The Maritime Aquarium.
“The Maritime Aquarium is a revered regional marine and conservation institution, and we couldn’t be prouder to provide the NAA grant,” said Jon Pensa, Senior Vice President and New Haven Branch Manager of Chubb. “Countless Connecticut residents engage and participate in the Aquarium’s innovative STEM-education programs, which align with Chubb’s broader corporate citizenship efforts to enhance and better the communities we serve.”
Installing a CHP system at the Aquarium will provide both environmental and economic benefits. It will help the facility achieve its goal of carbon neutrality and annually save the organization an estimated $200,000.
Joining Patlis and Pensa for the presentation of the check were Margaret Peloso, Senior Vice President of Chubb Group and Global Climate Officer and Executive Director of Chubb Charitable Foundation; Michael Dimler, Vice President, Commercial Insurance Manager, Chubb; Mark Fries, Executive Vice President of Assured Partners; Danielle Tranzillo, Chief Strategy and Growth Officer of The Maritime Aquarium; and Dave Truedson, Chief Operating Officer of The Maritime Aquarium.
THE MARITIME AQUARIUM AT NORWALK works to ignite a connection to Long Island Sound and the ocean to enrich the lives of all people and inspire action to protect our blue planet. The Aquarium is home to over 7,500 animals of hundreds of species including seals, sharks, rays, jellies, turtles and meerkats. Additionally, it offers sensory-enhanced 4D movies and educational programs for schools and families. The Maritime Aquarium is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos & Aquariums and receives support from the State of Connecticut DECD’s Offices of Culture and Tourism. For more information, visit www.maritimeaquarium.org.