City of Columbus Releases First-ever Climate Action Plan
Mayor
Andrew J. Ginther today joined business, environmental and community leaders to
unveil the city’s first-ever Climate Action Plan, a community roadmap to
achieve carbon neutrality by 2050 and a 45% reduction of greenhouse gas
emissions by 2030, and to promote equity and environmental justice while
pursuing a carbon-neutral Columbus.
“The
effects of global climate change are real, and they are directly impacting
residents in Columbus, particularly those who live in our Opportunity
Neighborhoods,” said Mayor Andrew J. Ginther. “We owe it to them, and to our
entire community, to reduce our collective carbon footprint, improve our local
environment and empower our most vulnerable neighbors with the resources they
need to withstand a changing climate.”
The
Climate Action Plan was developed with input from residents, environmental
advocates and the business community, and outlines mitigation strategies to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adaptation strategies to equitably promote
greater community resiliency against climate change. The plan will be updated
on a five-year basis to ensure optimal accountability, transparency and alignment
with the latest circumstances and climate science.
“This
plan is truly a bold vision to reduce the city’s greenhouse gases and protect
those communities most vulnerable to the climate crisis,” said Heather
Taylor-Miesle, executive director of the Ohio Environmental Council. “Mayor
Ginther, city staff and everyone who engaged in the drafting process deserve
praise for creating such an ambitious plan. We’re excited to partner with the
entire community to implement its recommendations and secure a healthier
environment for all who call this city home.”
One
Columbus President and CEO Kenny McDonald highlighted the plan’s role in
strengthening the local economy. “Taking action to ensure an environmentally
sustainable future will help Columbus maintain its position as a competitive
market for business and for talent, as more companies are looking to locate in
cities that take climate action seriously,” said Mr. McDonald.
The two
climate hazards most likely to impact Columbus are rising temperatures and
increased precipitation. Extreme weather conditions such as heat waves, heavy
rains, floods and drought all have the potential to produce drastic health and
economic consequences for Columbus neighborhoods, with even more dramatic
effects anticipated in areas already facing economic and social adversity.
The city
has allocated $10 million toward the plan in the proposed 2022 Operating
Budget, which includes funding to create additional clean energy jobs, expand
energy efficiency initiatives, establish a regional Green Fund to support
solar projects for nonprofit organizations and affordable housing units, and increase staffing for Sustainable Columbus, the city’s
existing sustainability initiative.
The full Climate Action Plan can be found at www.columbus.gov/sustainable/cap.