Santa Clara has long been dedicated to environmental sustainability, implementing various initiatives to address climate change and promote a healthier community.
Climate Action Plan
In 2013, the city established a Climate Action Plan (CAP) to guide efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Recognizing the evolving challenges, the CAP was updated and unanimously adopted by the City Council on June 7, 2022. This updated plan strengthens Santa Clara’s climate strategies while advancing environmental, social, and economic co-benefits for the community.
Sustainable Santa Clara
The city’s Sustainability Program focuses on initiatives that incorporate guiding principles such as collaboration, diversity, equity, inclusion, leadership, and a ‘multisolving’ strategy. This approach aims to achieve positive impacts across various sectors by developing solutions that address multiple challenges through singular actions.
Environmental Policies and Plans
Santa Clara has implemented several environmental policies and plans, including the Sustainable Purchasing Policy, Building Electrification and Electric Vehicle Reach Code Ordinance, Bicycle Master Plan, Pedestrian Master Plan, and the Urban Water Management Plan. These policies demonstrate the city’s commitment to promoting sustainability and environmental protection.
Community Engagement
Santa Clara actively engages with the community through programs like the Environmental Justice Initiative at Santa Clara University. This initiative fosters research and learning collaborations among faculty, staff, students, and community partners to address environmental and social justice issues.
Through these comprehensive efforts, Santa Clara continues to lead in environmental sustainability, striving to create a healthier and more resilient community for all residents.