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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Austin Climate Protection Plan?
The main objective of the plan is to reduce the amount of energy we use as a City and the greenhouse gas emissions associated with that energy use. The five main components of the plan focus on reducing carbon emissions in City buildings, City operations, City vehicle fleets, and in the community. Learn more about the plan.
2. What is the City of Austin doing to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions?
The first step in reducing our carbon footprint is to create an inventory of greenhouse gas emissions. The City of Austin is in the process of developing this inventory and will use it to prioritize reductions strategies. Check out our "About the Program" page for more information.
3. Why does Austin need a climate protection plan?
The City of Austin prides itself in being a green City. Having the number 1 green energy program, in "Green Choice", having a nationally recognized green building program, and taking the lead on creating a market for plug-in hybrid vehicles, it is only natural for us to green our City with an aggressive climate protection plan. Also, Austin, much like the rest of the world, is feeling the effects of climate change through longer summers, more mild winters, droughts, and flooding. Find out more about facts and myths of climate change.
4. Who is working on the climate protection plan?
Everyone. Work on the plan is a collaborative effort with everyone in the Austin community. The City of Austin has a core group of eight people, housed out of Austin Energy, that are coordinating the efforts within City departments and in the community.
5. What is the City doing to implement the plan in the Austin community?
The framework for a community coordinating committee is being created. This team will work to develop recommendations for community wide greenhouse gas reduction strategies.
In addition, City staff is working on a comprehensive education plan to help the community understand what they can do. We will have booths and speaking engagements around the City so everyone will have the opportunity to participate. Check back with us on programs and contests that we will be sponsoring in the future. See our calendar of events.
6. How can I get involved with the climate protection plan?
There are many actions you can do to help protect our climate. The majority of these actions will save you money, decrease the amount of energy you use, and reduce your greenhouse gas emissions. Check out our "What You Can Do" section for tips and actions for reducing your energy needs. Also, schedule a speaker for your community or neighborhood groups. Simply select “Speaker” from the e-mail subject drop-down menu and tell us when you would like a speaker.
The Austin Climate Protection Team can respond to your questions, comments, and suggestions. Just go to our "Contact Us" page to provide your feedback and to join Austin's Climate Protection Community.
