Two Climate Action Plans: Chicago and the University of Illinois at Chicago

 Two Climate Action Plans: Chicago and the University of Illinois at Chicago

Introduction

The issue of climate change, caused by increased greenhouse gas emissions from human activity, requires an urgent need for plans to move towards a low-carbon economy. Several organizations, including cities, states, government institutions, and universities, have taken action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, both through regulations and voluntary agreements. This case study provides two examples of climate action plans: one for a city, Chicago, and one for an institution, the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Chicago's Climate Action Plan

Cities produce a significant amount of waste and contribute to approximately 75% of all greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, it is essential for cities to develop plans to address environmental issues. The Chicago Climate Action Plan (Chicago CAP) is an example of such a plan. The plan has a mid-term goal of a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, and a final goal of an 80% reduction below 1990 GHG levels by the year 2050.

The Chicago CAP outlines several benefits of a climate action plan. Firstly, reducing the effects of climate change, which is predicted to have severe consequences for the future, including an increase in the number of 100 degree Fahrenheit days per year. Secondly, it provides economic benefits derived from increased efficiencies that reduce energy and water consumption. Thirdly, local governments and agencies have a significant role to play in climate action through enhancing energy efficiency of buildings through codes and ordinances. Finally, reducing dependence on fossil fuels helps achieve energy independence for the United States.

A good climate action plan should include reporting of greenhouse gas emissions as far back as possible, preferably to 1990. The plan released in September 2008 provides a roadmap of five strategies with 35 actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change. In 2010, the Chicago Climate Action Plan released a progress report measuring progress through small steps being taken to implement the plan, such as retrofitting residential units for energy efficiency and water conservation.

University Climate Action Plan

As part of the American College and University Presidents’ Climate Commitment (ACUPCC), nearly 670 presidents have signed a commitment to inventory their greenhouse gases, publicly report it, and to develop a climate action plan. The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) developed a climate action plan with goals similar to Chicago’s, which is a 40% GHG emissions reduction by 2030 and at least 80% by 2050, using a 2004 baseline.

The UIC CAP also has major strategy categories that are similar to Chicago’s, including energy efficiency and conservation, clean and renewable energy sources, and improved transportation options. Within each strategy, there are several recommended actions, and progress will be monitored by reporting emissions every two years to the ACUPCC and tracking individual actions and reporting to the campus community.

Comparison of the Two Plans

Table Alignment of the Chicago and UIC Climate Action Plans compares the major strategy categories of both the plans for a comparative understanding. The UIC’s greenhouse gas reports are also made publicly available on the ACUPCC reporting site. Figure 12.11 illustrates the emissions calculated for Chicago through 2005, and Figure 12.13 displays UIC’s calculated emissions inventory and then the predicted increases for growth if activities continue in a “business as usual (BAU)” approach. The triangular wedges below represent emissions reductions through a variety of strategies, similar to those of the wedge approach proposed by Professors Sokolow and Pacala.

Conclusion

Climate action plans, both at the city and institutional level, play an essential role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change. The Chicago Climate Action Plan and the University of Illinois at Chicago Climate Action Plan are two examples of initiatives aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. Both plans share similar goals and strategies, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint of urban areas.

Reference

Chicago Climate Action Plan:

City of Chicago. (2010). Chicago Climate Action Plan. https://www.chicago.gov/content/dam/city/progs/env/Chicago%20Climate%20Action%20Plan/CCAP%20Full%20Document%20with%20Acknowledgements.pdf

University of Illinois at Chicago Climate Action:

University of Illinois at Chicago. (2021). Climate action. https://sustainability.uic.edu/climate-action/