National Climate Assessment
The climate is changing and with it come challenges that require action. We must all do our part to help protect our planet and mitigate the worst effects of this global crisis. The most recent National Climate Assessment, released in 2018, made it clear that the United States must take action now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, reduce global temperature rise, and increase resilience to the impacts of climate change.
While the Federal government is taking important steps to combat climate change, cities, states, and local governments are leading the way to reduce emissions and build resilience. There are many examples of how states are already taking action and leading the way with their commitment to climate solutions.
California
California is a leader in climate action. Under California’s Global Warming Solutions Act (AB 32) the state is required to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. California’s cap-and-trade program, which started in 2013, is the world’s second largest and is expected to hit its reduction target two years early. California also recently passed legislation to increase renewable energy to 60% by 2030, among other programs designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Seattle
Seattle is one of the most progressive cities on the West Coast for climate action. The city’s Climate Plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030 and 50% by 2035. It also pledges to become carbon neutral by 2050 through a variety of means, including investment in renewable energy sources. The city’s Climate Action Plan also includes provisions to increase access to green jobs, increase energy efficiency in existing buildings, and fund green infrastructure projects.
New York City
New York City is a leader in climate solutions. In 2017, the city adopted its first-ever Climate Mobilization Act, which committed the city to a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and an 80% reduction by 2050. As part of the Act, the city has committed to aggressive building efficiency standards, green job and green infrastructure investments, a reduced reliance on fossil fuels, and other initiatives to combat emissions.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts is another example of how states are leading the way on climate action. The state’s Global Warming Solutions Act requires Massachusetts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 25% below 1990 levels by 2020. Massachusetts also recently passed legislation to increase renewable energy to 35% of the state’s electrical needs by 2030. The state is also investing in green infrastructure projects, such as improving the efficiency of buildings and investing in renewable energy sources.
Conclusion
The National Climate Assessment makes it clear that the United States must take action now to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase resilience to the impacts of climate change. While the federal government is taking important steps to combat climate change, cities, states, and local governments are leading the way to reduce emissions and build resilience. California, Seattle, New York City and Massachusetts are all exemplary in their commitment to reducing emissions and promoting renewable energy. It is important that these cities and states continue to lead the way and set an example for the rest of the nation in combating climate change.
