Best Practices

ENERGY BEST PRACTICE

Climate Protection

Marin County, CA

Purpose

To reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emission levels for both internal government operations (and the county as a whole) by examining specific emitters and implementing preventative measures.

Outcomes

As of January 2013, an update to the Marin County Climate Action Plan is in progress and will include the 2010 GHG emission inventory by the end of the year.

The latest GHG emission levels for Marin County are from 2005, totaling 3.18 million tons of CO2 equivalent (CO2). While the County did not meet their 2005 reduction target of 2.85 million tons of CO2, there was a 4% decrease in emissions from 2000, from 3.25 million tons of CO2. Recent County measures that help reduce emissions include purchasing hybrid cars, retrofitting facilities to improve energy efficiency, providing commuter alternatives for employees and switching incandescent traffic signals to light emitting diodes (LEDs).

Marin County has produced quantitative results in overall greenhouse gas emission reductions. As of 2005, the countywide recycling program had a 76% diversion rate, surpassing the County’s 27% diversion rate goal. Energy rebate programs for residents purchasing  photovoltaic (PV) systems have been successful as well, with 14 MW of potential energy installed in PV systems throughout the County. Plans include installing 30 MW worth of PV installations by 2015. With promotion from the Green Business Program, the County reported 388 new green businesses from 2002-2009. These businesses inherently reduce GHG emissions by adhering to environmental regulations that prevent pollution and waste generation.

Background & Summary

In 2002, the Marin County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution committing to participate in the Cities for Climate Protection Campaign, which included taking a leadership role in promoting public awareness about climate change as well as:

• Analyzing GHG emissions
• Setting a reduction target
• Developing and implementing a local action plan
• Monitoring progress
• Reporting results

Since analyzing emissions from internal government operations, the county has voluntarily set a target to reduce internal government GHG emissions 15%-20% below 1990 levels by 2020, and 15% countywide.

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Last updated January 27, 2013

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