Why Take Action on Climate Change?

A climate action plan can create shared vision around a climate goal. 

It can align climate policies with social and economic development goals, unlocking complementary social and economic benefits for cities.

Here are some examples:

• Improving energy efficiency can reduce municipal budgets and household energy bills over the long term.
• Expanded bus service not only conserves energy but also reduces traffic-related injuries and fatalities.
• Reducing air pollution improves health outcomes and cuts health care costs.

For more examples, see Opportunity 2030: Benefits of climate action in cities, and “The economic development side of sustainability: growth versus smart growth.” In Taking sustainable cities seriously: Economic development, the environment, and quality of life in American cities.