Climate change action plans help states identify and evaluate feasible and effective policies to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through a combination of public and private sector policies and programs. As of May 2004, 29 states and Puerto Rico have voluntarily completed state action plans. By taking a proactive approach to planning GHG emissions reductions, states can lower their GHG emissions, reduce their energy costs, protect air quality and public health, and improve the economy and environment.
State Action Plans (as of May 2004)
View completed state action plans by clicking on a state shaded blue, or select a state from the dropdown menu below.
Examples of greenhouse gas mitigation policy options recommended in State Action Plans:
- Home Energy Rating System
- Energy Efficiency Audits
- Energy-efficient Mortgage Programs
- Model Energy Codes (MEC)
- Tax Incentives for Fuel Switching, Cogeneration
- Renewable Energy Portfolio Standards
- Emissions Trading
- Methane Reclamation Programs
- Recycling Programs
- State Alternative Fuel Fleets
- Truck to Train Mode Shift
- Revenue Neutral Tax Incentives
- Afforestation
For more information about greenhouse gas mitigation policy options recommended in State Action Plans, see Chapter 4 of "Partnerships and Progress, 2001 Progress Report, EPA State and Local Climate Change Program" (1.1 MB PDF).
How is a State Action Plan Developed and Implemented?
States typically set up a climate change task force that brings together experts within their state to develop a comprehensive strategy to address climate change. Task force members generally include state planners, policy analysts, natural resource specialists, environmentalists, and representatives from the private sector. Their expertise often represents a range of disciplines – engineering, science, economics, policy analysis, planning, education, community development – and sectors – energy, industry, transportation, agriculture, forestry, waste.
State agencies and/or other members of the task force develop a GHG inventory and make future projections of GHG emission levels for their state. They identify areas where reductions would be feasible and, in some cases, they develop a voluntary GHG emission reduction goal. Collectively, they identify and select policy options based on several characteristics, including GHG reduction potential, cost-effectiveness, ancillary benefits, political feasibility, and public acceptance. Policies are ultimately ranked and selected by the task force. The best policy mix to achieve the plan's objectives are specified in the state action plan as recommendations and shared with state policymakers. Often the plan is circulated to the public for comments during the process.
Guidance for States
The EPA State and Local Climate Change Program provides state partners with the States Guidance Document: Policy Planning To Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Second Edition (EPA, 1998), in addition to technical advice, training, and information about other states' experiences to facilitate the completion of the action plan.