Ratte serves as Director of the PVPC’s Environment and Land Use Department
SPRINGFIELD – The Climate Equity and Environmental Justice section within the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs has appointed Catherine Ratte to their Community Climate Advisory Council.
In the first months of their service, the Healey-Driscoll Administration elevated Environmental Justice & Equity; specifically on establishing environmental justice principles in the work of the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, which oversees state energy policy, public lands, and environmental policy.
Catherine Ratte is an experienced Manager and Sustainability Planner with knowledge and skills including science literacy, environmental literacy, knowledge of the policy landscape, and management acumen. Since 1998, Catherine has been the Director of the Land Use and Environment Department of the PVPC. In her role, Catherine co-authored the regions’ first clean energy/energy efficiency and food security plans, and co-created the Pioneer Valley Sustainability Network. She is a Peace Corps. alum and has previously served in transportation advisory roles with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
PVPC’s Environment and Land Use Department works to protect the environment of the Pioneer Valley region, promote economically and environmentally healthy communities where people can walk and bicycle safely and conveniently. In their work, the Department can facilitate transition to clean, safe, sustainable energy; promote smart growth and reduced urban sprawl; catalyze regional action to address climate change and food insecurity; and promote understanding of and access to green infrastructure. The Department assists in Master Planning to ensure resilient communities, to keep rivers and streams clean, assure local zoning regulations to achieve community visions, protect our water supplies, and encourage sustainable land use. Working with municipalities, state and federal agencies, community organizations, non-profit groups, and private sector partners, the Environment and Land Use Department promotes local action, regional cooperation, and state initiatives leading to wise use of our resources.
Environment and Land Use staff provide technical expertise and clear guidance that blends community goals with a regional vision to maintain community character, protect the environment, promote smart growth, address the needs of the underrepresented, and improve quality of life throughout the Pioneer Valley region.