New England Municipal Sustainability Network: A Decade of Impactful Partnership Between UNH and Local Governments

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By Dr. Dovev Levine, Assistant Vice Provost for Outreach and Engagement, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs and Sustainability Institute Fellow, UNH
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Dovev Levine is the Assistant Dean for Graduate Student Affairs & Assistant Vice Provost for Outreach and Engagement

In September 2025, I was honored to serve as a panelist at the National Academy of Sciences’ Societal Experts Action Network’s Fall 2025 Symposium. This wonderful event convened network leaders, policymakers, and researchers to discuss how collaborative networks can create public value, serve communities, and bridge the gap between evidence and policy. This was a terrific opportunity to highlight UNH’s leadership in local sustainability efforts through our administration of the New England Municipal Sustainability Network (NEMS)—a unique, decade-old partnership based at UNH that brings together local governments, higher education, and nonprofit organizations to accelerate sustainability solutions across New England.

A Partnership Rooted in Collaboration

Founded in 2010, NEMS now includes about 40 municipalities across all six New England states, representing over 2.5 million residents. Since 2016, UNH has served as NEMS’s administrative home by providing strategic support, research, and student engagement. NEMS’s mission is to elevate municipal sustainability through peer learning, shared problem-solving, and academic partnership. Local governments lead much of the climate action, yet many smaller communities face resource challenges. NEMS connects municipal leaders with experts and practical tools to enhance their capacity for change.

UNH’s Role: A Hub for Innovation and Learning

At UNH, we provide coordination, faculty expertise, and opportunities for student research on issues ranging from heat resilience to stormwater management. Our approach fosters trust and innovation through regular meetings and collaborative projects, such as tackling energy inefficiencies in rental housing.

Looking Ahead

The SEAN Symposium recognition affirms the power of cross-sector collaboration and UNH’s commitment to community impact. We look forward to advancing sustainability efforts with our municipal partners, students, and faculty, building a greener future for New England and beyond.

Learn more about the New England Municipal Sustainability Network and UNH’s role in advancing local sustainability solutions.