Strategies & Actions
The Thurston Climate Mitigation Plan (TCMP) identifies strategies and actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across five sectors as detailed below.
Buildings & Energy Sector
Strategy B1.
Reduce energy use in existing residential buildings.
Residential energy use currently is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in our region. While newer buildings may be constructed to meet greener standards, the majority of homes in the Thurston region were built before 1988, with one in five dating back 50 or more years. Looking at our emission reduction targets, more than two-thirds of the housing units that will exist in 2050 already exist today, so retrofitting existing buildings is a key strategy. While energy efficiency improvements can pay for themselves over time through reduced heating and cooling expenses, the upfront cost may be a barrier for many. More than a third of homes in the Thurston region are rented, which means their occupants may have less control over choosing appliances or making building improvements that increase efficiency. The actions described below will support a transition toward higher efficiency homes by providing more information to consumers about home energy use and incentives for efficiency upgrades.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
High: Addresses a large emissions source (e.g., energy use or transportation), has broad reach, and high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
High: Addresses a large emissions source (e.g., energy use or transportation), has broad reach, and high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy B2.
Reduce energy use in existing commercial/industrial buildings.
Energy used to power businesses contributes to more than a quarter of our local carbon footprint (26 percent). Operations range from small retail and professional offices to sprawling warehouses. Improving efficiency across this sector will require approaches that target these different scales. The Thurston region currently has more than 42 million square feet of commercial and industrial area, but it is distributed unevenly. The greatest proportion of commercial building area is in the city of Olympia, while industrial space is concentrated in Lacey and Tumwater. As home to the headquarters of many state agencies, the Thurston region’s stock of office space includes a large share of public sector buildings—these organizations can show leadership by increasing efficiency and reduce long-term energy costs to taxpayers. While it is hard to predict our future needs for work space, commercial and industrial buildings must be adapted over the coming decades to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and accommodate the more than 50,000 new jobs anticipated to be added in our region between now and 2045.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
High: Addresses a large emissions source (e.g., energy use or transportation), has broad reach, and high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy B3.
Reduce energy use across building types
Increasing efficiency in our built environment will require builders and contractors to learn and adapt to new materials and practices. The following actions will help support that transition by providing technical assistance to share what works and celebrating development that takes on this challenge.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy B4.
Reduce energy use in new construction or redevelopment
To meet the needs of a growing population, our region will need to add approximately 30,000 new housing units by 2030 and nearly 55,000 new units by 2050, as well as around 23 million square feet of additional commercial and industrial space. Standards for energy efficiency in new development are generally set by the State Building Code Council, and requirements scheduled to go into place in 20212 set stricter emissions thresholds for most new buildings. Developers can incorporate greener practices more easily in new construction than existing structures, but such requirements can increase upfront costs—incentives and tools like the actions listed below can help to encourage the adoption of green building practices while balancing the need to keep housing affordable and local business costs down.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy B5.
Increase the production of local renewable energy.
Shifting our reliance for electricity away from polluting fossil fuels toward renewable sources like wind and solar power is one of the most important strategies we have to reduce emissions. Action at the state level, with the adoption of the Clean Energy Transformation Act, will move us a long way toward this end, but smaller-scale installation of renewable energy infrastructure can help support the transition as well, while saving ratepayers money over time and increasing local resilience. As of 2020, more than a thousand residential customers and over 60 businesses in the Thurston region have installed solar panels that feed into the power grid, generating nearly 10 million kilowatt hours each year.3 The actions identified below are intended to set the stage for broader access to this technology.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy B6.
Convert to cleaner fuel sources.
Greening our electrical grid is essential to achieving the climate targets, but electricity is not our only fuel source. Although it has a reputation for being “cleaner than coal,” natural gas also contributes to climate change, particularly by leaking methane, a powerful greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide, although less prevalent. Natural gas also can affect both indoor and outdoor air quality, causing impacts to public health.4 Approximately 32 percent of the Thurston region households rely on natural gas as their primary source of heat at home.5 Across the partner jurisdictions, that proportion is highest in Lacey (45 percent), although the greatest number of households that use natural gas are in unincorporated Thurston County (12,487 homes). Actions assessed for this plan would restrict new natural gas connections and encourage those with existing connections to shift to cleaner options.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Transportation and Land Use Sector
Strategy T1.
Set land use policies that support increased urban density and efficient transportation networks and reduce urban sprawl.
When people opt to live close to the places they work, shop, and meet up with others, they make fewer, and shorter, driving trips— this is how increased density leads to reduced greenhouse gases. Planning for more compact growth in urban centers supports many of our regional goals, by making our cities and neighborhoods more vibrant, creating a robust economy, and reducing development pressure on environmentally sensitive areas. This strategy reinforces other approaches for reducing transportation emissions, by improving the viability of transit and making it safer and easier to get around by foot or bicycle.
The land use vision set out in Sustainable Thurston includes the following targets:
- By 2035, 72 percent of all (new and existing) households in our cities, towns, and unincorporated urban growth areas will be within a half-mile (comparable to a 20-minute walk) of an urban center, corridor, or neighborhood center.
- By 2035, at least 17 percent of homes in Lacey, Olympia, and Tumwater’s urban areas will be located in an urban corridor or center
- Between 2010 and 2035, no more than 5 percent of new housing will locate in the rural area.
As of 2019, our region is not on track to achieve these targets. The concentration of housing within walking distance of urban centers, corridors, and neighborhood centers has stalled around 46 percent, although recent development in downtown urban areas is pointing the way toward increases in density.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy T2.
Increase efficiency of the transportation system.
The minutes spent waiting in traffic can add up to a substantial climate impact. Actions that improve congestion on our roads, either through investments in transportation infrastructure or by reducing the number of people driving at peak periods, will reduce emissions while also improving air quality and the ability of people and goods to get where they need to go.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy T3.
Increase adoption of electric vehicles.
As our energy sources become cleaner, with electricity coming mostly from renewables, vehicles powered by gas and diesel will become our greatest local source of emissions. One of the easiest shifts we can make is to also power our transportation using electricity. As of April 2020, the Thurston region has 2,162 registered electric vehicles or EVs.6 This number will need to increase substantially over the coming years to make a dent in transportation emissions. At the state level, the Zero Emission Vehicle standard adopted in 20207 will likely push auto companies toward offering a greater range of electric vehicles to consumers. Even as new EVs become more prevalent at dealerships, we know that generally one-third of the miles traveled in an average year in our region are driven in vehicles that are more than ten years old.8 The actions assessed for this plan will help set the stage locally for greater adoption of EVs by reducing technical and economic barriers.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
High: Addresses a large emissions source (e.g., energy use or transportation), has broad reach, and high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy T4.
Increase the use of public transit.
Public transportation connects people with jobs, school, healthcare, and community services in ways that are more carbon efficient than driving alone. Applying many of the actions assessed for this strategy, Intercity Transit’s 2019-2024 Strategic Plan predicts a minimum 40 percent increase in ridership in the next five years. Continued investment in transit will most aid those who don’t have access to other forms of transportation due to disabilities, age, or income, but also brings broader community benefits, such as better access to employment, workforce recruitment, and improvements in air pollution.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
High: Addresses a large emissions source (e.g., energy use or transportation), has broad reach, and high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
High: Addresses a large emissions source (e.g., energy use or transportation), has broad reach, and high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy T5.
Increase use of active forms of travel (such as, bicycling, walking).
Currently, most Thurston region residents drive alone to work and use a car for most other trips. While many residents enjoy walking and bicycling for recreation, just three percent of commute trips are made using these active modes.9 Making it easier for people to walk and bike for typical errands, rather than driving a car, will help reduce emissions while also supporting our regional goals and improved public health. These actions can benefit low income and other marginalized communities by reducing the need to rely on a private vehicle. The actions identified below will help address gaps and barriers in our current network.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Water and Waste Sector
Strategy W1.
Increase the efficiency of water and wastewater infrastructure.
While water and wastewater management contribute only a small piece of our regional greenhouse gas inventory, the energy used to power these utilities are large contributors to the carbon footprint of individual jurisdictions. The actions identified below center on ways for city and county governments to reduce waste and save money, while reducing their own emissions.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/Low: Addresses a small or unmeasured emissions source (e.g., agriculture, solid waste), and has broad reach or high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy W2.
Reduce water consumption.
While water and wastewater management contribute only a small piece of our regional greenhouse gas inventory, the energy used to power these utilities are large contributors to the carbon footprint of individual jurisdictions. The actions identified below center on ways for city and county governments to reduce waste and save money, while reducing their own emissions.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Low: Addresses a low emissions source, and has limited scope or enforceability; or lays the foundation for other actions, although it may not reduce emissions directly.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy W3.
Reduce emissions from wastewater treatment operations.
While water and wastewater management contribute only a small piece of our regional greenhouse gas inventory, the energy used to power these utilities are large contributors to the carbon footprint of individual jurisdictions. The actions identified below center on ways for city and county governments to reduce waste and save money, while reducing their own emissions.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/Low: Addresses a small or unmeasured emissions source (e.g., agriculture, solid waste), and has broad reach or high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy W4.
Divert more solid waste from landfills.
Although emissions generated outside the Thurston region by manufacturing and transporting goods consumed here are not measured as part of our current inventory, many people involved in developing this plan were interested in addressing the impacts of consumption and waste. In Sustainable Thurston, our region set a goal to move toward zero waste, but currently, we are not on track to meet this goal. Waste collected on a per capita basis has increased from a low of 1,140 pounds per person in 2012 to 1,318 pounds per person in 2016.10
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Low: Addresses a low emissions source, and has limited scope or enforceability; or lays the foundation for other actions, although it may not reduce emissions directly.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Low: Addresses a low emissions source, and has limited scope or enforceability; or lays the foundation for other actions, although it may not reduce emissions directly.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy W6.
Reduce consumption of carbon-intensive goods and services.
Although emissions generated outside the Thurston region by manufacturing and transporting goods consumed here are not measured as part of our current inventory, many people involved in developing this plan were interested in addressing the impacts of consumption and waste. In Sustainable Thurston, our region set a goal to move toward zero waste, but currently, we are not on track to meet this goal. Waste collected on a per capita basis has increased from a low of 1,140 pounds per person in 2012 to 1,318 pounds per person in 2016.10
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Low: Addresses a low emissions source, and has limited scope or enforceability; or lays the foundation for other actions, although it may not reduce emissions directly.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Agriculture, Forests, and Prairies Sector
Strategy A1.
Reduce emissions from agricultural practices.
Agriculture in Thurston County is remarkably diverse—it includes everything from large commercial dairy and egg operations to orchards to specialty vegetables grown on small urban lots. Our average farm size is small at 14 acres. Around 500 farms have livestock—mostly cattle and chickens—and a large portion of agricultural land is managed minimally for grazing and growing hay.11 While farms can reduce their impact with better management of animal waste and fertilizer, they can also play a role in offsetting the community’s emissions as a whole. Land management practices like cover cropping, no-till and minimum tillage conservation practices, crop rotations, soil amendments, and changes in grazing management have been shown to increase the rate of carbon stored in plants and soil. In 2020, the Washington State Legislature established the Sustainable Farms and Fields grant program, which will aid farmers and ranchers in adopting practices that increase carbon storage.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/Low: Addresses a small or unmeasured emissions source (e.g., agriculture, solid waste), and has broad reach or high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy A2.
Support agricultural practices that sequester carbon.
Agriculture in Thurston County is remarkably diverse—it includes everything from large commercial dairy and egg operations to orchards to specialty vegetables grown on small urban lots. Our average farm size is small at 14 acres. Around 500 farms have livestock—mostly cattle and chickens—and a large portion of agricultural land is managed minimally for grazing and growing hay.11 While farms can reduce their impact with better management of animal waste and fertilizer, they can also play a role in offsetting the community’s emissions as a whole. Land management practices like cover cropping, no-till and minimum tillage conservation practices, crop rotations, soil amendments, and changes in grazing management have been shown to increase the rate of carbon stored in plants and soil. In 2020, the Washington State Legislature established the Sustainable Farms and Fields grant program, which will aid farmers and ranchers in adopting practices that increase carbon storage.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/Low: Addresses a small or unmeasured emissions source (e.g., agriculture, solid waste), and has broad reach or high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy A5/A6/A7.
Preserve tree canopy and manage forests and prairies to sequester carbon.
Trees have been called the lungs of our planet, and they also can be very effective at removing carbon from the air and storing it in the soil. Historically, tall stands of Douglas fir, cedar and other tree species covered far more of Western Washington than they do today. Conserving existing tree canopy and forest areas and restoring areas that have been cleared can help to offset emissions from other activities, while providing a host of benefits for our local environment from storing and cleaning water to providing habitat for many sensitive species. Prairies can sequester large amounts of carbon in the roots of plants, and this sequestering is less vulnerable to fires than trees. Furthermore, working to preserve prairies will not only help several endangered species survive, it will reduce opportunities for urban sprawl. In enacting this strategy, it will be important to balance the carbon sequestering capacity of forests and prairies with the emission reducing potential of dense urban development and renewable energy infrastructure.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/Low: Addresses a small or unmeasured emissions source (e.g., agriculture, solid waste), and has broad reach or high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/Low: Addresses a small or unmeasured emissions source (e.g., agriculture, solid waste), and has broad reach or high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/Low: Addresses a small or unmeasured emissions source (e.g., agriculture, solid waste), and has broad reach or high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Cross-Cutting Sector
Strategy G1.
Conduct education and outreach across climate mitigation areas.
This plan focuses on the ways local government can reduce local contributions to climate change but achieving those reductions will require action from people at all levels. Many local businesses, community partners, and residents have already expressed their desire for climate action and demonstrate their commitment to improving our community. This strategy acknowledges the need for the partner jurisdictions to understand and work out how climate policies and programs can be tailored to best meet the needs of the people they serve, and how to communicate in ways that inspire the change we need to meet our goals.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy G4.
Enhance monitoring and evaluation of climate mitigation measures and outcomes.
The actions included under this strategy will not reduce emissions directly, but they will help our community understand whether we are making progress toward achieving our goals. They also aim to fill information gaps identified over the course of this planning process and highlight ways to correct our course as we learn more.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium: Addresses a large emissions source, but has limited reach.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/High: Addresses a large emissions source, but relies on voluntary action.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/Low: Addresses a small or unmeasured emissions source (e.g., agriculture, solid waste), and has broad reach or high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
Medium/Low: Addresses a small or unmeasured emissions source (e.g., agriculture, solid waste), and has broad reach or high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
GHG
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Potential
High: Addresses a large emissions source (e.g., energy use or transportation), has broad reach, and high enforceability.
Other
Ecosystem Health
Supports the protection and preservation of environmentally sensitive species and lands, open space, water quality and water supply, or air quality. Regional Goals 2, 4, 8, 10
Social Equity
Supports the equal distribution of resources among historically disadvantaged or marginalized communities. Regional Goal 6
Economic Benefit
Supports local prosperity, including through investments, markets, and jobs. Regional Goals 3, 7, 12
Adaptation Value
Supports an action in the Thurston Climate Adaptation Plan.
Other Regional Goal
Supports another regional goal, including vibrant city centers and corridors, zero waste, or education. Regional Goals 1, 5, 11
Youth Priority
As the generation who will be tasked with adapting most to climate impacts, youth voices have had a strong influence on this planning process. These actions were identified as important by a team of students and educators as part of the multicriteria analysis.
Strategy G5.
Advocate for climate-mitigating state and federal policy.
While this planning process has helped answer the question of what local governments can do to address sources of climate change, it also has shed light on the limits of local authority when it comes to triggering large-scale transitions in our energy and transportation systems. The partnership among four jurisdictions that has powered this process is one of our greatest tools. By working together to advocate for strong state and federal climate action, we can amplify our influence on policy debates to come.
GHG