The Prince George’s County Council established The Prince George’s Climate Action Commission with Council Resolution CR-07-2020 to develop a Climate Action Plan for Prince George’s County to prepare for and build resilience to regional climate change impacts, and to set and achieve climate stabilization goals.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns . While some of these shifts are natural, human activities have been the main driver of climate change since the 1800s, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels. Causes of Climate Change The primary cause of climate change is the greenhouse effect , which is intensified by human activities. Here's a breakdown of the main contributors: Greenhouse Gases: The burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas for energy, transport, and industry releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The main greenhouse gases include: Carbon dioxide ( C O 2 ) : The largest contributor to global warming. Methane ( C H 4 ) : A potent greenhouse gas produced from sources like livestock farming and natural gas flaring. Nitrous oxide ( N 2 O ) : Primarily emitted from agricultural practices, including the use of fertilizers. Deforestation: Trees absorb C O 2 f...
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Key aspects of the plan include:
• Emissions Reduction:
The plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030, aligning with state and regional goals.
• Climate Resilience:
The plan addresses the impacts of climate change —such as extreme heat, flooding, and severe storms —by integrating climate resilience into long-range planning and infrastructure development.
• Community Engagement:
The plan emphasizes a collaborative community engagement process with opportunities for public feedback and participation.
• Focus on Equity:
The plan incorporates environmental justice principles, recognizing the disproportionate impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations.
• Specific Recommendations:
The plan includes recommendations for various sectors, including transportation, buildings, land management, and waste management.
• Public Schools Involvement:
Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) has also developed a Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) with eight priority areas for action, such as reducing the carbon footprint of schools, promoting renewable energy, and improving food waste management.
Key implications for businesses and residents:
• Benchmarking and Building Performance Standards:
Large commercial and multifamily buildings will be required to track energy use and meet progressively stricter energy performance thresholds.
• Electrification of Building Systems:
Building owners may need to consider electrifying their heating and cooling systems to meet energy efficiency goals.
• Sustainable Practices:
The plan encourages sustainable land management, waste reduction, and the adoption of renewable energy sources.
• Climate Risk Awareness:
Residents are encouraged to become aware of climate risks and take steps to prepare for potential impacts.