Climate Action Plan

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Reducing greenhouse gases

CAP Cover Page

The City’s Climate Action Plan (CAP) sets a goal to cut Sedona’s greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030. Reaching this target will require involvement and commitment from the entire city. Local government, residents, businesses, and community leaders must work together to bring forth innovative and impactful solutions that work for Sedona.

Preserving the natural environment is a key part of sustainability. It is a priority for City Council and the community, as highlighted in the Environment section of the Community Plan.

What is a Climate Action Plan?

A Climate Action Plan is a comprehensive road map outlining the specific actions for a community to take to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is an integral component of protecting a city’s natural environment and a best practice for municipalities that want to prepare for and adapt to climate change.

Why a Climate Action Plan for Sedona?

In Sedona, climate change is impacting air temperatures, water availability and wildfire risk. These changes threaten Sedona's natural resources, economy, infrastructure and quality of life. Learn more about how climate change is affecting the Verde Valley in Sedona’s Climate Profile.

Interested in learning more about climate change in general? Check out NASA's Global Climate Change resource page. 

Current actions

To help identify areas within the community that might be most affected by the changing climate profile for Sedona. The City partnered with the Arizona State Climate Office and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) on the Urban Heat Island mapping campaign. Sedona is one of 18 communities participating in the campaign this year. Twenty-seven community volunteers helped collect data in June 2023. Their efforts will help identify areas within city limits most impacted by heat and strategize mitigation options tailored to the community.

NOAA Urban Heat Island Mapping Campaigns: 2023 Locations

Map of United States showing cities participating in NOAA urban heat island mapping project

 

 

Current data / metrics reporting

Annual greenhouse gas inventories help in tracking progress towards the 50% reduction in community emissions goal found in the CAP. The following graphs highlight where estimated annual emissions have been in the last few years against the 2018 baseline. 2022 emissions are estimated at 152,169 metric tons (6% below 2018), with most emissions (59%) coming from electricity and natural gas usage in buildings. On-road travel comprised an estimated 26% of 2022 community emissions.

2022 Community Emissions

Pie chart of estimated Sedona community emissions

 

 Graph of estimated Sedona community emissions 2018-2022