Great Lakes Implement action plans

CIVIC INSTITUTIONS
Climate change can be addressed at the community level, as is already occurring in many areas across the region. Local solutions to climate change are available and have immediate collateral benefits, including cost savings, cleaner air and water, and improved quality of life. Information concerning climate change must be available so that citizens and leaders can develop the most effective strategies to reduce emissions and to minimize the impacts of climate change. Because the region is home to the automotive industry and a significant percentage of the nation’s coal-fired power plants, it makes sense for business and industry leaders to proactively address climate change so that both the individuals and businesses of the region benefit from investments in new, cleaner technologies.


Solution strategies:	IMPLEMENT ACTION PLANS	SUPPORT ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION	PROMOTE COOPERATION
Significant emission reductions can be achieved through planning and policy. Many municipalities in the region already participate in climate protection programs. In addition, a number of states in the region have developed climate change action plans, to help identify feasible and effective policies to reduce their emissions. A good next step would be the establishment of mandatory greenhouse gas registries, to quantify and record the greenhouse gas emission reductions. The city of Toronto, for example, has been a leader in reducing emissions of heat-trapping gases through a highly successful climate protection program, which included targeted emission reductions and dates. This city could serve as a model for other municipalities and state or provincial governments.