Climate Matters: Pima County sets bold climate goals with new action plan
The Pima County Board of Supervisors has taken a significant step forward in its climate change efforts. In a 4-1 vote, the Board committed to a new Climate Action Plan for County Operations (CAPCO) aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% from 2021 levels by 2030.
Since its first Sustainability Action Plan in 2007, the County has seen successes in reducing water use and waste, increasing recycling, and boosting renewable energy use. Now, with CAPCO, the focus extends beyond County operations to address a broader range of climate issues.
“Pima County has been a leader for nearly 20 years in taking direct action to reduce the impact of County operations on the climate. Today’s climate resolution continues to ensure the County not only leads by example but continues to follow the science and enact new and updated policies that address the broad range of effects climate change has on the health and well-being of County residents,” said Pima County Board Chair Rex Scott.Board Chair Rex Scott said.
Scott DiBiase, director of the County Department of Environment Quality, emphasized the economic rationale, noting that climate change costs are often hidden but impactful. “Think about how you have to run your air conditioner many more days,” DiBiase said.
The CAPCO plan includes 11 directives, including:
- Developing strategies to address the growing risks of extreme heat, drought, and increased wildfire risk
- Improving community resilience in vulnerable populations, public health, the regional workforce, and economic vitality
- Developing internal County structures to ensure the goals of the CAPCO are met and improved upon
- Continuing to explore innovative and effective strategies for carbon reduction
- Expanding the County’s climate efforts beyond County operations and develop regional partnerships that prioritize mitigation, adaptation, and resilience
- Seeking funding opportunities beyond the County General Fund to implement innovative and effective strategies for carbon reduction projects
- Providing quarterly reports to the Board on CAPCO progress