L. Implementation
“Do what you can, with what you’ve got, where you are.” ~Teddy Roosevelt
This Climate Action Plan is not intended to be the definitive statement or guide to preventing or responding to climate change impacts in Washoe County. This CAP is imperfect, but it is a start. It is obvious we do not currently possess the innovative technology, enough money or sufficient political will to achieve the County’s goal of net-zero GHG emissions. But we know where to start – with conservation, energy efficiency, cleaner technologies and healthier habits. Every metric ton of carbon-equivalent gases we prevent from entering the atmosphere lessens the severity of the impacts we and others will experience in the future.
Everyone – the County, all other jurisdictions and agencies at the local, state, national and international levels, businesses, community organizations and citizens – has responsibilities and roles to play in reducing emissions and adapting to our climate challenges to create a livable future for ourselves and generations to come. No one else will do it for us. We are the ones we have been waiting for.
The following perspectives and priorities will help guide our work:
Maximum Effect
Pursue interventions that deliver maximum emissions reductions as measurable by tangible metrics, as cost-effectively as possible. Additionally, strategies that help the County mitigate carbon emissions, adapt to our changing climate and become more resilient in the face of uncertain future conditions will – all else being equal – be preferred over those strategies that provide only one benefit.Data-Informed
Gather and track data wherever possible. Use that data to inform our actions to achieve maximum effect and best return on investment.Deliver Equity
Many of the impacts of pollution and climate change are borne first and worst by people who contributed the fewest GHG emissions, and who can least afford to adapt to heat, storms, and air pollution. When our most vulnerable people experience these challenges, oftentimes it’s the responsibility of the County and other first responders and agencies to provide essential care and services – costs that are borne by taxpayers and rate payers. In most cases preparation is far less expensive than emergency response. Washoe County has numerous census tracts where low-income people and communities of color. Solutions should bring relief to these communities in ways that benefit everyone in the County.