What is a Climate Action Plan?

A climate action plan is a roadmap that outlines specific activities and strategies that an agency will undertake to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to meet a set target.  Examples of GHG’s include carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) which are generated through the use of transportation, electricity, and natural gas. The City of Dublin’s climate action plan will set GHG reductions goals through 2045 and include measures to achieve the needed reductions.

Why is a Climate Action Plan needed?

The State of California has shown national leadership on climate change through legislation such as Senate Bill (SB) 32, which requires California to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030, and Executive Order (EO) B-55-18, which puts California on the path to carbon neutrality by 2045. Updating our Climate Action Plan will put Dublin on the path to meet these ambitious statewide goals. Also, the Climate Action Plan can be used to streamline the environmental review of future projects, saving time and money during the review process. The Climate Action Plan will also provide many local co-benefits including improving air quality and public health and saving money and resources.

What are the steps for developing a CAP?

The CAP will be developed over the next year, beginning with the development of both historic and existing greenhouse gas emissions inventories. This data will then be used to estimate projected emissions through 2030 based on expected population growth as well as expected new projects and state level policies. The City of Dublin will use this information and state targets to set an emissions target specific to the City and develop an action plan for how to reduce GHG emissions to reach it. During this time the City of Dublin will be conducting outreach to hear the from the community on which sustainability actions are most important. As the CAP is implemented, progress toward the goals will be tracked to ensure the actions taken are making a measurable difference.

Will reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Dublin really make a difference?

Yes, more than half of the world’s population currently lives in cities, with the majority of America’s population concentrated in urban areas. Cities require large amounts of energy to support their infrastructure and residents, which contributes to high amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. Dublin has a responsibility to mitigate our carbon footprint and make our environment safer and healthier for all.

Why is it important to act on climate change right now?

The world is already experiencing the ever increasing effects of climate change. California alone has seen increases in the number and frequency of extreme wildfires, earlier melting snowpack, more frequent and prolonged drought, and sea level rise. If we don’t act now, we could push the climate beyond tipping points. It is urgent to reduce greenhouse gas emissions today in order to slow the harmful effects of climate change.

How does climate change affect Dublin?

The Bay Area’s average annual maximum temperature has increased by 1.7°F since 1950, and Dublin is experiencing more extreme heat days each year. Also, the area burned in “large-fire” years in the Bay Area has been steadily increasing over the past 80 years increasing danger from fires and decreasing air quality and health. Dublin is already feeling the effects of climate change, which is why it is important to reduce our negative impacts on the environment.

How does the Climate Action Plan relate to East Bay Community Energy?

East Bay Community Energy (EBCE) is Alameda County’s Community Choice Aggregation Program and provides cleaner, greener energy than mandated by the State of California. Buying your electricity from EBCE is a simple way to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and meet our community climate action goals. EBCE also provides the option to purchase 100% renewable and carbon free energy.

What is the City doing to make a difference?

• The City has opted up all of its electric accounts to East Bay Community Energy’s Brilliant 100 energy portfolio.
• The City has electric vehicle charging stations available for public use at the Shannon Community Center, Fallon Sports Park, and the Dublin Library.
• The City currently generates approximately 20% of its municipal energy needs with on-site solar voltaic arrays at 7 locations.
• The City of Dublin established a Green Fleet Policy in 2012 that requires that the City make every effort to obtain the cleanest vehicles possible.
• The City’s commute alternatives program provides incentives for City employees to use alternate transportation to get to work.
• CAP 2.0 will lay out the roadmap to future GHG reductions.

How can I make a difference?

• Opt up with EBCE to Brilliant 100 or Renewable 100 to bring more renewable energy to your home or business.
• Carpool, take public transportation, walk, or bike instead of driving.
• Purchase an electric vehicle when you buy your next car.
• Become an all-electric home: decarbonize your energy and eliminate natural gas all together.
• Explore the City’s Environmental Services webpage to learn more ways that you can make a positive environmental impact.

Where can I provide input and learn more?

You can go to http://www.DublinCAPupdate.com to take a quick survey, provide input, and stay informed on Climate Action Plan development!