Energy

Cities for Climate Protection

To reduce greenhouse gas emission levels for both internal government operations (and the county as a whole) by examining specific emitters and implementing preventative measures.

Topic Areas Addressed:

Energy

Keywords:

greenhouse gases, emissions, prevention, local action plan, marin county

Submitting Jurisdiction:

Marin County

Marin County committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution by signing up for the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign in 2002, which included taking a leadership role in promoting public awareness about climate change as well as:

• analyzing greenhouse gas emissions
• setting a reduction target
• developing and implementing a local action plan
• monitoring progress, and
• reporting results

Target Audience:

County operations, overall Marin operations (businesses, residents, municipal operations)

Measurable Outcomes:

Currently, measures have been implemented throughout Marin to reduce emissions. County efforts that have led to a 4% decrease in internal operation emissions include purchasing hybrid cars, retrofitting facilities for energy efficiency, providing commuter alternatives for employees, and switching incandescent traffic signals to light emitting diodes (LEDs).

With a countywide recycling program that has a 71% diversion rate, energy rebate programs for residents’ purchase of photovoltaic systems plus other renewable energy purchases, and the Green Business Program, Marin County has produced quantitative results in overall greenhouse gas emission reduction.

The County also developed a local action plan that was accepted by the Board of Supervisors in October 2006. Implementation of the action plan will commence pending resource/staff availability.

Originating Source:

The Marin County Board of Supervisors voted to join the ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) program in 2002.