In order to understand where we are starting from, International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) completed a comprehensive greenhouse gas inventory of Gainesville in 2008 and 2021. Alachua County is in the process of conducting a county-wide climate change vulnerability assessment (CCVA). The City of Gainesville is also currently working on a vulnerability study.
The City of Gainesville established a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. We are in the process of developing a climate action plan. The climate action survey will help us understand the needs of our residents in preparation for drafting the action plan.
The 2019 Inventory of Community and Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions report provides a comprehensive estimate of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for the City of Gainesville in 2019, including emissions from both citywide activities and the City’s government operations. It serves as a baseline inventory to assess the impact of strategic initiatives aimed at reducing GHG emissions. The data collected will help the city quantify future mitigation targets and model effective strategies for reducing emissions, following the Gainesville City Commission’s 2019 climate emergency resolution. The report is a key tool for tracking progress and guiding the city’s efforts in addressing climate change.
GNV Greenhouse Gas Emissions Dashboard
2019 Gainesville Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Report (pdf)(PDF, 1MB)
The FloodWise Communities Vulnerability Assessment for the City of Gainesville, Florida report details the City of Gainesville’s self-guided vulnerability assessment (VA), completed with guidance from FloodWise Communities (FWC) and funded by the National Academy of Sciences. Conducted between July 2021 and July 2022, the assessment focused on identifying vulnerabilities in the city’s stormwater, water, and wastewater systems due to climate and weather changes. It also expanded to include critical assets like affordable housing. The VA integrates social and economic factors, utilizing the Neighborhoods at Risk tool to highlight vulnerable populations. The findings will support Gainesville’s efforts to enhance climate resilience, inform grant applications, and strengthen adaptation and mitigation strategies.
2022 FloodWise Assessment (pdf)(PDF, 9MB)
Joint Water and Climate Policy Board
The Joint Water and Climate Policy Board is composed of three Alachua County Commissioners, three members from the Gainesville City Commission, and one member from the outlying municipalities. The board meets every other month to provide guidance on water issues and the challenges of climate change. The board appoints members to the Citizen Climate Advisory Committee. View videos of past meetings here and find agendas at the City of Gainesville’s event calendar. For more information contact Stacie Greco at 352-264-6829.
Citizen Climate Advisory Committee (CCAC)
The CCAC is appointed by the Joint Water and Climate Policy Board (JWCPB) and provides an opportunity for citizen involvement in climate change issues and concerns affecting Alachua County, City of Gainesville and the surrounding municipalities. The committee advises the JWCPB on bold and innovative climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, policies, and target goals. The primary task of the CCAC is to advise on the creation of a countywide Climate Action Plan that will guide policy and decision making in multiple jurisdictions. The CCAC currently meets in-person at the Grace Knight conference room on the third Monday of each month. For more information contact Stephen Hofstetter at 352-264-6811.
Track 1: Mitigation
These five groups focus on reducing carbon emissions:
- Energy: Implementing renewable energy solutions and improving energy efficiency.
- Transportation Electrification Plan: Promoting electric vehicles and enhancing the city fleet with low-emission options.
- Water and Wastewater: Reducing water usage and improving wastewater management.
- Zero Waste: Advancing recycling, composting, and waste reduction initiatives.
- Green Purchasing: Encouraging sustainable procurement practices.
Track 2: Adaptation
These five groups aim to enhance community resilience:
- Extreme Heat: Developing strategies to protect residents from heatwaves.
- Food System: Ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture.
- Equitable Community Engagement: Involving all community members in climate action.
- Climate Dashboard: Monitoring and reporting climate-related data.
- Funding Resources Allocation: Securing and managing funds for climate initiatives.
Climate Action News