This Earth Day, the City of Cleveland proudly reaffirms its commitment to environmental justice and climate resilience with the release of its updated Climate Action Plan (CAP) and Municipal Action Plan (MAP). Both plans were shaped through deep collaboration with Cleveland residents and stakeholders and reflect a bold vision for a healthier, more sustainable future.
“Cleveland’s future depends on the actions we take today. A safe and healthy environment is a fundamental right that every Clevelander deserves. That’s why my administration has prioritized creating an updated Climate Action Plan that puts our residents first,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “This plan outlines how we will reduce pollution, improve air and water quality, create good-paying green jobs, and strengthen our neighborhoods against the impacts of climate change. We're building a healthier, more resilient Cleveland, where everyone, regardless of race, income, or zip code, has access to clean air, safe water, and a sustainable future.”
Led by the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability, the City conducted a Climate Risk & Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA) and community engagement process that identified three major climate hazards already affecting Clevelanders: poor air quality, extreme heat, and heavy precipitation & severe storms. Insights from the CRVA helped identify which populations and neighborhoods are most vulnerable, ensuring the plans are equity-centered and responsive to current and future risks.
The updated CAP and MAP reflect two years of outreach and input from more than 1,000 residents, with over half of the participants coming from low-income and disadvantaged communities throughout all Cleveland wards and several surrounding areas. Additionally, representatives from every city department contributed, ensuring a whole-of-government and citywide approach.
Climate change is directly tied to public health, safety, and quality of life. Those most vulnerable to these climate impacts include people experiencing homelessness, children, outdoor workers, individuals with disabilities, and residents in low-income neighborhoods. Without urgent local action, these risks are expected to worsen.
“The updated CAP is more than a commitment to addressing climate change and environmental injustices – it’s a roadmap to a future where Cleveland thrives,” said Sarah O’Keeffe, Director of Sustainability & Climate Justice
The Climate Action Plan (CAP) outlines community-wide strategies to reduce emissions, improve air and water quality, and build neighborhood-level climate resilience—with active engagement from residents, businesses, and local organizations.
The Municipal Action Plan (MAP) focuses on the City’s own operations, providing a clear framework for modernizing infrastructure, reducing municipal emissions, and improving sustainability in government services.
Together, the CAP and MAP form a unified roadmap to help Cleveland achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The release of these updated plans reinforces Cleveland’s ongoing commitment to meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement and implementing policies that prioritize equity, sustainability, and climate resilience. Despite shifting national political landscapes, the City remains focused on securing cleaner air, safer streets, and a healthier, more just future for all Clevelanders. Learn more and view the Climate Action Plans & Community Toolkit: https://www.clevelandohio.gov/city-hall/office-mayor/sustainability/cleveland-climate-action-plans.
