CLIMATE ACTION PLAN - City of Urbana

1.3
THE BENEFITS OF LOCAL ACTION
Urban areas are major consumers of energy and thus are responsible for a majority of greenhouse gas emissions. Energy
is needed to support daily activities and public and private infrastructure. Urban areas grow in terms of population and
geographic area. Sprawling patterns of development increase transportation energy use, as well as the energy needed to
power lights, appliances and heat buildings. Solid waste produced by urban areas represent greenhouse gas emissions
from a product’s manufacturing process to the methane released as it decomposes in landfills.
Local governments can use their decision-making and purchasing powers to increase energy efficiency and reduce
greenhouse gas emissions. Local governments possess regulatory and economic tools that make communities greener
and more energy and transportation efficient. These powers include zoning and land use decisions, control over building
codes and licenses, infrastructure investments, municipal service delivery and jurisdiction over recreation, school and
park areas.
For example, within the transportation sector, money can be saved through energy efficient driving habits and
substantial economic benefit can be created by investing in public transportation, and bicycle and pedestrian
infrastructure. These include increased real estate values, investment in neighborhood development and direct savings
for residents coping with high prices of gasoline. Increased public transportation also benefits the elderly, children and
low-income individuals. According to the American Public Transportation Association, investments in mass transit provide
an economic stimulus far exceeding the original investment, through increased jobs, profit, and tax revenue. Cities that
take action to address global warming pollution have cleaner air, better sidewalks and energy efficient buildings.
Urbana Bicyclists
City of Urbana
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