This story originally appeared in Next City, which reports on equitable and just urban solutions.
There are two common myths about Kentucky and climate change: one is that it’s safe from climate issues, and the other is that its people resist climate action. But experts say the reality is more complex.
Kentucky ranks as the sixth most vulnerable state to climate impacts, according to a report from Texas A&M University and the Environmental Defense Fund. From 2020 to 2024, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recorded 27 major climate disasters in Kentucky, affecting lives and property.
This reputation for political indifference might stem from state leaders’ decisions to roll back environmental protections. Yet, many Kentuckians are actively engaged in climate discussions. For instance, Lauren Cagle, a professor at the University of Kentucky, emphasizes that perceptions about the state’s attitudes toward climate action are often misleading.
Localities are collaborating on a Central Kentucky Climate Action Plan, which includes six counties. They aim to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 23 percent by 2035 and 40 percent by 2050, based on 2021 levels. Jada Walker Griggs, sustainability manager for Lexington-Fayette Urban City Government, believes combining environmental, social, and economic perspectives can strengthen community resilience.
Fayette County, for example, has a lower climate vulnerability score than many areas but still faces significant environmental challenges. Nearby counties like Bourbon and Clark rank much higher for climate risk, primarily due to infrastructure and health-related factors. This highlights disparities within the region.
The Central Kentucky Climate Action Plan, backed by a $1 million EPA grant, suggests immediate actions like increasing electric vehicle charging stations and planting more trees to combat rising temperatures. The initiatives also include expanding the Solarize Lexington program, which offers solar energy solutions at reduced rates.
Surveys show that about 58 percent of residents in the Lexington-Fayette area are concerned about climate change. While this is lower than the national average, it reflects a growing awareness of global warming. Cagle points out that many Kentuckians might not identify as climate activists but are nevertheless concerned about environmental issues.
Shanda Cecil, a city official in Winchester, emphasizes a community-oriented approach. She has led initiatives in local schools to promote recycling and reduce food waste. She believes grassroots efforts can lead to meaningful change, though getting individuals to act remains challenging. Cecil has noted the difficulty in driving behavioral changes, where awareness does not always translate to action.
The actions outlined in the Central Kentucky Climate Action Plan seek to bridge the urban-rural divide in climate efforts. They highlight the importance of collaboration, community education, and accessible resources to foster a stronger climate response across the region.
As opinions shift toward prioritizing climate action, more residents are embracing their role in creating a sustainable future. It’s a reminder that effective climate solutions need not be confined to political lines; they can arise from shared local goals.
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