a. Sustainability training and support programs offered to local governments, school districts, and other governmental entities have been shown to result in significant cost savings to those who adopt sustainability initiatives.

b. New Jersey institutions of higher education have successfully partnered with New Jersey nonprofit organizations to develop and offer support and assistance to local governments, school districts, and other governmental entities.

c. Encouraging New Jersey municipalities, schools, school districts, and other State and local government contracting agencies to function in a sustainable, environmentally responsible manner and to use resources efficiently is vital to ensure a sustainable future of New Jersey and its residents.

d. It is in the State’s interest to ensure the general welfare of the State and its residents by encouraging, and provide a stable source of funding for, the development of such partnerships and programs.

L.2023, c.81, s.1.