Climate Action

Project Description

In 2007, the State approved Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32), which requires California to reduce the State’s Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions by at least 15% from 2005 levels by the year 2020. Local jurisdictions are adopting, or have already adopted, local Climate Action Plans (CAP) to assist with the State’s effort to reduce GHG emissions. The Town of Atherton, along with the other cities within San Mateo County, have been working with San Mateo County Energy Watch (SMCEW) in cooperation with C/CAG and the energy-consulting firm DNV GL to complete a draft CAP. From March 2014 to September 2015, staff had been working with the Town’s Environmental Program’s Committee (EPC) in developing specific GHG reduction measures, as well as a complete, draft CAP. In September 2016, additional state legislation approved Senate Bill 32 (SB 32), which extends the state’s targets for further reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 49% below 2005 levels by the year 2030. In November 2015 and following into February and March 2016, the City Council conducted study sessions to begin discussion and consideration of draft GHG reduction measures and draft a CAP as recommended by the EPC.

The City Council adopted a Final Climate Action Plan (PDF) for the Town on October 19, 2016.

Any questions or comments on the Final Climate Action Plan can be directed to the City Manager's Office at 650-752-0500.