Abstract

The Anchorage Climate Action Plan puts Anchorage on a path to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80% from 2008 levels by 2050, with an interim goal of 40% by 2030.*,1,2 Many of the actions in this plan are focused on addressing the primary cause of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, Anchorage residents are already experiencing many initial impacts of climate change, including warmer winters, icier roads, and more winter rain. The Climate Action Plan includes actions that will help Anchorage prepare for these and future impacts. 

Anchorage is joining a community of cities, states, and organizations around the world in the effort to lower human contributions to climate change and build capacity to combat the environmental changes the world is facing. The actions in the Anchorage Climate Action Plan have been developed so that our efforts to confront climate change also support local jobs, economic development, improved public health, more transportation options, and community self-sufficiency. 

In addition to the objectives and actions laid out in each of the sectors, the Climate Action Plan has two overarching actions: 

1. Complete a greenhouse gas inventory and update annually to measure progress towards climate goals. 
2. Develop a framework for selecting, monitoring, and sharing indicators that track 1) environmental changes associated with climate change, 2) impacts of climate change at a neighborhood- level, and 3) adaptation measures and their effectiveness in Anchorage. 

The recommendations included in the Anchorage Climate Action Plan apply to all communities within the Municipality boundary, including the Native Village of Eklutna, Chugiak, Eagle River, Anchorage, Girdwood, and Portage.