https://www.sustainablecleveland.org/climate_action
When the U.S. pulled out of the Paris Climate Agreement in 2017, it became clear that leadership from local government, businesses, and civic institutions in sustainability efforts is needed now more than ever. To re-affirm our commitment to climate action, the City of Cleveland, along with 400 other "Climate Mayors" across the country formed a bipartisan network of climate leadership. Representing 48 states and 74 million Americans, the Climate Mayors coalition reflects U.S. cities’ commitment to climate action and mitigation.
Since the first Cleveland Climate Action Plan (CAP) launched in 2013, the City has seen progress towards its sustainability goals.
- Carbon pollution has been reduced and water and air quality have improved while the economy has grown.
- The City has been recognized for supporting solar and wind energy.
- Over 70 miles of bike infrastructure have been installed and a bike share program started.
- The Cleveland Climate Action Fund supported over 50 resident-led, neighborhood-based projects.
- Dozens of organizations have implemented the Cleveland Tree Plan.
- Destination Cleveland reported that the number of Clevelanders who would recommend the city as a place to visit has more than doubled.
The CAP outlines five focus areas and several cross-cutting priorities that identifies objectives, goals, and specific actions needed to build a thriving and resilient City:
- Built Environment
- Circular Industry
- Clean Energy
- Clean Transportation
- Nature-Based Solutions
- Resilient People
Similarly, the Municipal Action Plan update is organized around six focus areas through which the City integrates sustainability into its operations:
- Built Environment
- Clean Energy
- Clean Transportation
- Resilience and Empowerment
- Resource Management
- Water and Green Space
This plan is about much more than climate change. It is meant to strengthen the economy, clean the environment, and improve the health and wellness of Clevelanders. The work must be done in a way that ensures that those most in need enjoy the benefits of climate action.
*The CAP is updated on a 5-year cycle, new release expected in 2024.
To learn more about sustainability and climate action in Cleveland, visit https://www.sustainablecleveland.org/