In Santa Fe, our commitment to sustainability is not just a policy stance; it’s a community effort to ensure a livable, thriving future for all. Recognizing the urgent need to address climate change, the Santa Fe Environmental Services Division (ESD) has outlined four priority actions that residents and businesses alike can adopt to make a significant environmental impact. These actions focus on reducing our carbon footprint, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting cleaner alternatives.
Santa Fe’s Plan for Sustainability
The Sustainable Santa Fe 25-Year Plan, approved by the City of Santa Fe Governing Body in 2018, established strategies for a thriving community where climate impacts are neutralized, natural resources are abundant and clean, and sustainable economic activity is generated through enhancing social equity and the regenerative capacity of the environment. The plan established 91 strategies to achieve carbon neutrality, improve quality of life and social equity, enhance ecological resilience, and strengthen the economy. It is a living document, fully intended to evolve as the proposed strategies are implemented, priorities shift, technology changes, and lessons are learned.
Top 4 Climate Actions in Santa Fe
1. Electrification of Buildings and Appliances
Electrification involves replacing technologies and systems that typically use fossil fuels with those that run on electricity. This transition is crucial in reducing our reliance on non-renewable resources and decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. In homes and businesses, this can mean switching from gas-powered heating systems to electric options like heat pumps, which are not only more efficient but also have a lower environmental impact. Electrification helps reduce indoor air pollution, enhancing overall air quality and public health.
How You Can Participate: Consider replacing your old gas furnace or water heater with an electric model. Look into local incentives that may offset installation costs and consult with a professional to ensure your home is ready for these cleaner, more efficient technologies.
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2. Enhancing Energy Efficiency
Improving energy efficiency – using less energy to produce the same result – is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change. This can be achieved through better insulation, energy-efficient appliances, and smart home technologies that minimize power usage. Energy efficiency reduces overall energy consumption, leading to lower carbon emissions and significant cost savings over time.
How You Can Participate: Start with an energy audit to identify areas where your home or business can improve its efficiency. Simple changes like upgrading to LED lighting, sealing drafts, and installing programmable thermostats can make a big difference.
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3. Solar Energy Expansion
Santa Fe’s abundant sunshine provides an excellent opportunity for solar energy use, which is a clean, abundant, and increasingly affordable energy source. By investing in solar panels, the city and its residents can decrease dependence on fossil fuels and embrace a sustainable power option that emits no greenhouse gases during operation.
How You Can Participate: Consider installing solar panels on your roof to reduce your electricity bills and your carbon footprint. Many local companies offer consultations and installation services, and tax incentives can make solar energy an even more attractive investment.
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4. Adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Transportation is a major source of pollution, especially in urban areas. Transitioning to electric vehicles is a key strategy in reducing transportation-related emissions. EVs offer a cleaner alternative to gasoline-powered cars and are essential to our strategy to reduce air pollution and combat climate change.
How You Can Participate: If you are considering a new vehicle, think about going electric. Explore the range of available EV models and take advantage of state and federal incentives to lower the cost. Also, utilize the growing network of EV charging stations throughout Santa Fe, making EV ownership more convenient than ever.
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Engage and Learn More:
These four climate actions are just the beginning. The Santa Fe Environmental Services Division (ESD) encourages you to engage with local programs, attend workshops, and utilize resources designed to facilitate these important changes.
Stay connected with Santa Fe for updates and resources on how you can make a difference in our climate action efforts.
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