Policies > Climate Solutions > Section 1
Reducing Emissions
In order to avoid the most damaging consequences of climate change, we must rapidly and dramatically slash greenhouse gas emissions. Securing a livable climate means transforming every sector of American life, from how we power the grid to how major industries operate. This requires significant investment, innovative policy, and thoughtful collaboration across the economy and all levels of government.
Section 1:
Reducing Emissions
Section 2:
Building Resiliency
Section 3:
Fostering Widespread Support
Section 4:
Leveraging Federal Funding
Luckily, we know how to do this. As action stalled on the federal level, and the Trump Administration reneged on the Paris Agreement, states and cities across the nation began cutting emissions and fostering a greener, more stable economy. These local governments, often led by NewDEAL Leaders, created policies and programs that are working on the ground today.
In addition, they joined the Paris Agreement, called on the Administration to rejoin the international community, and started fostering the international partnerships on which America must lead. And their actions can have a multiplying effect, spurring new collaborations and bolder goals as governments hit their emission reduction targets ahead of schedule.
POLICY GOALS
State and local leaders must steer dramatic greenhouse gas emission reductions in their communities.
Environmental justice must be central to decision making in order to protect vulnerable populations, equitably share the benefits of reducing emissions, and address legacy pollution.
Climate efforts should include both sector-specific strategies as well as solutions that reduce emissions across all sectors (like carbon pricing).
Policy Recommendations
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Smarter Emissions Data
Without data on the problem, it’s impossible to figure out solutions. Elected officials should encourage -- and even require -- the collection and reporting of climate data within their jurisdiction. They should measure progress, and use data to highlight inequities of where the emissions are being produced to support the importance of environmental justice initiatives.
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Cleaner Electricity
The price of solar has fallen by nearly 90 percent over the last decade. Wind energy prices have dropped by 70 percent. Still, clean energy requires strong state/local policy to fully transform the U.S. electricity system, and ensure traditionally disadvantaged communities can benefit from renewable sources. Innovative state and local leaders are setting examples of forward-thinking policies.
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Smarter Buildings
Buildings contribute nearly a third of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. Substantially decarbonizing this sector requires reducing the energy demand of both existing buildings and new construction. Efforts must be made to dedicate funding for efficiency in low-income areas. These strategies can transform cities, neighborhoods, and homes to save energy and money.
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Smarter Transportation
In order to effectively cut emissions, electric vehicles, mass transit, and other alternatives must be scaled up to replace gasoline-powered cars. Future-focused transportation policy and smart community planning can make these options practical and affordable for residents, with special effort given to ensure clean options are available in communities of color and other populations who traditionally have less access.
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Invest in Innovation
Even with concerted efforts to reduce carbon emissions, it is uncertain that our current technologies will scale dramatically or fast enough to avert serious environmental damage. State and local governments are investing in emerging technology that could help close the gap.
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Making Polluters Pay
Policymakers must consider efforts that bring together all climate solutions. Carbon pricing requires polluters to pay for the climate damages that their activities or products create, encouraging innovation and private sector investment. The resulting revenue can be reinvested in climate solutions that return economic and social value to communities. Specific efforts should be made to invest in lowering energy costs and improving efficiency in traditionally disadvantaged communities.
