CLIMATE KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES, and the City of El Paso has decided to lead a regional approach to developing our area’s first-ever Climate Action Plan. This regional group is known as the Chihuahuan Desert Climate Collaborative (CDCC).
Figure 1 - Steering Committee
The map below showcases the exact area that will be captured in the CDCC Climate Action Plan (CAP).
Figure 2- Project Study Area
CREATING OUR REGIONAL CLIMATE ACTION PLAN WILL REQUIRE YOU TO THINK BEYOND YOURSELF and consider the well-being of your loved ones now and of generations to come. So tune into this website on a regular basis, sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Facebook to learn about all things CAP.
Climate change affects all of us.
Climate change affects the air we breathe, affecting the overall public health and well-being of our region.
Climate change causes higher levels of pollution like ground-level ozone and particulate matter. This pollution can make asthma and bronchitis worse, especially for children and the elderly. Also, higher temperatures can lead to more frequent and intense heat waves, putting extra pressure on our healthcare systems.
2023 was the hottest year on record globally, and El Paso shattered temperature records with 60+ consecutive days of over 100-degree heat.
El Paso is experiencing what is known as the urban heat island effect. This happens when we replace natural land cover with pavement and buildings which absorb and retain heat, increasing the effects of global warming by making local temperature increases a “normal” thing.
The Chihuahuan Desert is considered one of the most biologically diverse desert ecosystems in the world, extending nearly over 1,000 km from south of Albuquerque, New Mexico, to 250 km north of Mexico City.
The Chihuahuan Desert acts as a natural carbon sink, helping mitigate climate change. Its biodiversity and unique ecosystems provide resilience against extreme weather events and support local wildlife.
Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and low-income residents, are most at risk from the impacts of climate change.
This is due to health vulnerabilities, inadequate housing and infrastructure, limited economic resources, and potential social isolation.
Our CAP will include measures to support and protect vulnerable communities, ensuring they have the resources and assistance they need to cope with climate impacts.
Climate Action can lower your utility, transportation and even health bills.
Climate Action can mean more cash in your pocket. It has the potential to lower your utility bills by promoting energy efficiency programs and practices. It can also cut transportation costs by supporting public transit, infill development and biking, reducing the need for gas and car maintenance. Additionally, it can lower medical bills related to respiratory illnesses like asthma
A CLIMATE ACTION PLAN (CAP) IS A BLUEPRINT WITH BIG IMPACTS—it's a powerful framework that will empower our region to measure and cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while preparing us to mitigate and adapt to climate impacts. It guides our leaders in making informed decisions, showing us where and how we can achieve significant emission reductions effectively and affordably. The graphic below illustrates the steps outlined in our CAP, shaping a sustainable future for generations to come.
Figure 3 – Milestones of Climate Action and Adaptation Planning
Measure El Paso's total greenhouse gas emissions from sources like cars, buildings, and industry.
Set specific reduction goals for El Paso's emissions to be achieved by certain dates. (e.g 2030, 2040, 2050)
Identify which areas and populations in El Paso are most at risk from climate change impacts like heat waves and flooding.
Decide which climate actions to take first in El Paso based on their potential impact and feasibility.
Create a detailed plan outlining the steps El Paso will take to reach its climate targets and adapt to a changing climate.
Execute the actions laid out in El Paso's climate action plan to reduce emissions and enhance resilience.
Regularly track and assess El Paso's progress toward its climate goals and adjust the plan as needed.
Have questions or want to learn more about our project, contact us below:
| Name | Office of Climate & Sustainability |
|---|---|
| Phone | (915) 212-0138 |
| [email protected] |
