Berkeley Climate Action Plan

The City of Berkeley’s Climate Action Plan sets forth a vision of a more sustainable, livable, equitable, and economically vibrant community. By using energy more efficiently, harnessing renewable electricity to power our buildings, enhancing access to sustainable transportation, reducing waste, and building local food systems, we can keep dollars in our local economy, create new green jobs, and improve our quality of life.

In 2006, Berkeley voters issued a call to action on the climate change challenge by overwhelmingly endorsing ballot Measure G to reduce our entire community’s greenhouse gas emissions by 80% below 2000 levels by 2050. The Berkeley Climate Action Plan was written through a community-wide process and was adopted by City Council on June 2, 2009.

Vision for a more sustainable Berkeley outlined in the Climate Action Plan:

• New and existing Berkeley buildings achieve zero net energy consumption through increased energy efficiency and a shift to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind
• Public transit, walking, cycling, and other sustainable mobility modes are the primary means of transportation for Berkeley residents and visitors
• Personal vehicles run on electricity produced from renewable sources or other low-carbon fuels
• Zero waste is sent to landfills
• The majority of food consumed in Berkeley is produced locally
• Our community is resilient and prepared for the impacts of global warming
• The social and economic benefits of the climate protection effort are shared across the community

Learn about Berkeley's progress toward achieving its Climate Action Plan goals. View the most recent staff report.

In recognition of the climate crisis, the City has added additional climate goals to support implementation of the Climate Action Plan:

• Fossil Fuel-Free Berkeley: On June 12, 2018, City Council adopted a resolution establishing the goal of becoming a Fossil Fuel-Free city
• Climate Emergency: On June 12, 2018, City Council adopted a Climate Emergency Declaration
• Race to Zero & Net-Zero Carbon Emissions: On May 11, 2021, City Council adopted a resolution to commit to the C40 Race to Zero Campaign, including a commitment to reaching net-zero emissions in 2045 or sooner

Get Involved - Make the Vision a Reality: Join the Berkeley Climate Action Coalition a network of local non-profits, educational institutions, businesses, faith-based organizations, public health organizations, neighborhood groups, government agencies and committed individuals, all working together to implement the Berkeley Climate Action Plan.