The City of Owen Sound is launching into the second phase of its climate action strategy’s community engagement efforts.
The city says in its strategic plan refresh in 2021, it identified the need to consider the effects climate change may have on its services.
The city is working on a climate action strategy which would include mitigation and adaptation efforts, while also aligning with Grey County’s climate action plan.
The strategy also includes a corporate climate change adaptation plan, which was approved by council in 2021.
The plan details some of the mitigation efforts already underway, including LED streetlight conversion, solar panels, a tree planting program, an bottle refill stations.
The city adds they have joined the Partners for Climate Protection program, which is a free resource and network of over 500 municipalities across the county. Its goal is to take action against climate change and reduce local greenhouse gas emissions.
The city is currently looking to forecast energy use and emissions by January of 2023, set emission reduction targets for community and corporate greenhouse gas emissions by February. and develop a local action plan by April.
“We know climate change can have impact on our health, our services, and our future. Owen Sound is developing and implementing a Climate Action Strategy reflective of our long-term planning and dedication to our community,” says Mayor Ian Boddy.
Community engagement and updates on the strategy will be posted on the city’s website here.
