Gary is one of 13 communities that will spend the summer collecting information about community-wide and local government operations’ greenhouse gas emissions. As part of the cohort, Gary will have access to technical resources, a peer network, and training through ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability, a nonprofit that specializes in helping local governments with emissions inventories.
The greenhouse gas inventory is a fundamental first step for Hoosier cities, towns, and counties committed to combating climatic changes. Indiana residents are already experiencing more torrential rainfalls in spring and winter, more river and flash flood events and more freeze-thaw events that wreak havoc on transportation infrastructure and potholes. Findings from the local government operations inventory will be used to help city employees identify greenhouse gas reduction strategies for municipal activities.
“We are delighted that these 13 Indiana communities have chosen to take a critical early step on the path to reducing carbon emissions and enhancing air quality,” said Ellen Ketterson, Director of IU’s Environmental Resilience Institute. “The findings from these greenhouse gas inventories will provide a roadmap for local officials to address emissions produced in their own backyards, improve public health, and strengthen the resilience of Hoosier communities.”
