Progress Check: How Close Is Amherst to Meeting Its 2025 Climate Goals?

Local and Green Initiatives in Amherst

In 2019, Amherst Town Council set bold climate action goals. They aim for carbon neutrality by 2050. There’s a target to cut emissions by 25% by 2025 and 50% by 2030. Since 2021, the town has been following the Climate Action Adaptation and Resilience Plan (CAARP) to guide these efforts. Every year, the council reviews progress and adjusts plans as needed. The Energy and Climate Action Committee helps with annual reports and recommendations to keep the momentum going.

For 2025, the Town Manager’s climate goals include:

1. Updating inventory for buildings and vehicles to reduce fossil fuel use.
2. Securing Climate Leader Community Designation (which has been achieved).
3. Supporting new bylaws to lower greenhouse gas emissions, but some of this work is delayed.

Assessing progress with a Climate Scorecard brings mixed results. While there has been progress, much work remains to achieve the 25% reduction goal. Overall, the rating for climate action would be “needs MUCH improvement.”

So, what can be done to boost efforts?

This year, key achievements include gaining Climate Leader Community status, securing funding opportunities, and rolling out a Valley Green Energy program. There’s also a new heat pump incentive for lower-income families and the first Zero Energy K-5 School.

Yet, challenges remain, especially in staffing the Sustainability Department. Without a full-time director, it’s hard to seek enough grants, implement policies, or engage the community effectively. For example, the delay in passing important bylaws like the Solar Bylaw stalls progress. Advocacy from Sustainability Director Stephanie Ciccarello is commendable but not enough to meet all goals.

Moving forward, it’s crucial for the new council to integrate climate action into every decision. It shouldn’t be seen as an isolated issue but rather a core part of all planning.

As we evaluate where we stand, other communities have made strides. For example, many cities are adopting green building codes and implementing electric vehicle incentives. A recent study found that cities with strong sustainability programs saw up to 30% improvement in residents’ energy efficiency practices.

In conclusion, while Amherst has laid the groundwork for its climate goals, real change depends on more coordinated efforts and community involvement. Every step counts towards a greener future.

Darcy DuMont, a former town councilor and climate advocate, has been pivotal in promoting local sustainability efforts. You can reach her at dumint140@gmail.com.

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