Breaking down the city's Climate Action Plan

REDLANDS, Calif. — Residents will have a chance to learn how Redlands’ newly adopted Climate Action Plan will affect daily life and future city policies at an upcoming community forum, Redlands' Climate Action Plan: What It Means for You, and Why It Matters, hosted by Accelerate Neighborhood Climate Action.

The event, part of the Resilient Living Speaker Series, will be held Wednesday, Sept. 17, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Community/Senior Center, 111 W. Lugonia Ave. Admission is free, but seating is limited.

Featured speaker Kaitlyn Haberlin, the city’s sustainability coordinator, will present an overview of the plan, which was approved by the City Council in July following more than a year of study, workshops and public input. The plan sets ambitious goals to cut carbon emissions from more than 7 metric tons per person today to 1 ton by 2050.

The city’s strategies focus on reducing emissions from its largest sources — transportation and buildings — through measures such as expanding zero-emission vehicle use, reducing vehicle miles traveled and electrifying buildings.

“The CAP includes many goals to help the city address climate change in a comprehensive manner,” Haberlin said. “Our choices and actions today will determine whether Redlands becomes a more resilient, healthy and sustainable community in the decades ahead.”

Julia Lenhardt, an earth scientist and director of geospatial technology at the University of Redlands, will also speak on the potential costs of inaction, both locally and globally.

Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback and discuss the plan’s goals with other community members.

The event is co-sponsored by the city of Redlands.

Registration is available through Eventbrite, though walk-ins are welcome.

This article was written based on a press release from ANCA.