About the Program
Overview of the Austin Climate Protection Program
The overarching goal of the Austin Climate Protection Program is to make Austin the leading city in the nation in the fight against climate change. We are currently working towards this goal by implementing the following actions:
1. The Austin Climate Protection Plan.
In February 2007, the City Council passed a resolution (PDF, 144 KB) that directed the City to begin taking action in a variety of areas. The five main components of the Plan are listed below. Click on each component for a more detailed description of the goals in that area.
- Municipal Plan - Make all City of Austin facilities, vehicles, and operations carbon-neutral by 2020.
- Utility Plan - Expand conservation, energy efficiency, and renewable energy programs to reduce Austin Energy’s carbon footprint; cap carbon dioxide emissions from existing power plants; and make any new electricity generation carbon-neutral.
- Homes and Buildings - Update building codes for new buildings to be the most energy-efficient in the nation, pursue energy efficiency upgrades for existing buildings, and enhance Austin Energy’s Green Building program.
- Community Plan - Engage Austin citizens, community groups, and businesses to reduce greenhouse gas emissions throughout the community.
- "Go Neutral" Plan - Provide tools and resources for citizens, businesses, organizations, and visitors to measure and reduce their carbon footprint.
2. Creation of an inter-departmental Climate Action Team.
The Climate Action Team first met on January 18, 2008, and currently includes representatives from many City departments. This team is developing a baseline carbon emissions inventory and creating recommendations for reducing the City of Austin's carbon footprint. Once these steps are complete, this group will be instrumental in setting and implementing reduction targets for all City departments. See what is happening with the Climate Action Team (PDF, 90 KB).
3. Working with the community to identify emission reduction opportunities.
We will be working with the community to identify opportunities for greenhouse gas emissions reductions. We will also be establishing a dialogue with the Austin community to ensure that every individual has a chance to participate in climate protection efforts.
Where We Are: Progress of the Plan
Austin Climate Protection Plan ordinance (PDF, 144 KB)
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