The 2022 Sustainability and Climate Action Plan(PDF, 6MB) (S/CAP) is Palo Alto's roadmap for a healthier, more sustainable community. It lays out the strategy for how the City and the community as a whole will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect our natural environment, and adapt to the impacts of climate change.
There are two major climate action goals in the S/CAP: cut greenhouse gas emissions to 80% below 1990 levels and achieve carbon neutrality. These goals mean reducing emissions as much as we can, then balancing remaining emissions out with projects that pull greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere. Additional S/CAP goals relate to the seven other topic areas that frame the S/CAP: energy, electric vehicles (EVs), mobility, water, climate adaptation, natural environment, and zero waste.
The City Council adopted the S/CAP following an extensive community engagement and analysis process. Learn more about S/CAP history.
S/CAP Implementation is underway, with initiatives like the Electrify My Home program, rebates for sustainable landscaping, and the Horizontal Levee Pilot Project. Staff continue to implement the key actions in the S/CAP, following the priorities set forth in the 2026-2027 Work Plan(PDF, 297KB).