As Wilton's newest organization, the Go Green Committee wants to cultivate a culture of conservation.

Its members hail from many local organizations, all with a singular goal: to encourage stewardship of the planet. The group, which is in the process of becoming a 501 3 c non-profit, will address several issues, including sustainable food sources, land management, waste and recycling.

GGC actually sprang from Wilton's Energy Commission. Last May, it organized the town's first Go Green Festival.

"There was so much energy from the Go Green Festival we thought how can we make this even bigger?" said Becky Bunnell, co-chair of the organization.

Aside from raising awareness, the commission can advocate. That is something it couldn't do while operating under the Energy Commission, which serves as an advisory board for the Board of Selectmen.

"The Go Green Committee has the ability to take strong positions," said Bruce Hampson, a member of the committee.

For example during Monday night's public hearing on whether to ban plastic bags at checkout counters, GGC members took a stand against plastic.

The committee will also begin advocating the need to address global climate change. On Oct. 10, 2010, or "10-10-10," the committee will join forces with 350.org's global workday to drive sustainability initiatives.  

Right now the group plans on organizing an event with the Wilton Y and the Wilton Library to heighten awareness about climate change, Bunnell said.

Funding also prompted committee members to form the non-profit. When it operated under the Energy Commission, the Board of Selectmen had to approve funding.

"Going to the selectmen is always tough, especially in this economy," Hampson said. "As a 501-3-c it's able to solicit donations from like-minded people."

Though Go Green struck out for newer pastures, it will work closely with many other organizations.

"We can work closely with the Land Trust, Conservation Commission, and Ambler Farm to name a few," Bunnell said.