Leading with equity in the 2020 update of King County's Strategic Climate Action Plan (SCAP)

In addition to continuing find ways that we can further reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions and preparing our infrastructure and communities for climate impacts, the 2020 SCAP update also provides us with an opportunity to directly address equity in our climate work, and align with the county’s 2016 Equity and Social Justice Strategic Plan.  

As part of the County’s commitment to acting on climate change and equity & social justice, the 2020 SCAP update will include expanded community, youth, and stakeholder engagement and partnership, materials in new formats, and a new section on Sustainable and Resilient Communities developed through a community-driven process with leaders of frontline communities (those disproportionately impacted by climate change).

In 2019-2020 the County will be updating and revising its plan for 2020-2025 to:

• Further reduce regional greenhouse gas emissions (pollution that is driving climate change),
• Take action to prepare our infrastructure, services and communities for climate change impacts,
• Identify new opportunities to take action on climate solutions that achieve social, economic and environmental benefits for King County communities,
• Involve stakeholders, partners and frontline communities (those disproportionately impacted by climate change) in setting priorities, including through a new Climate & Equity Community Task Force,
• Prioritize equity throughout the SCAP, in alignment with the county’s Equity and Social Justice Strategic Plan, including through a new Sustainable and Resilient Communities Section.

Come learn more about our approach and provide your input and ideas for the 2020 SCAP at one of our 3 upcoming public workshops, or via our online survey!

• Wednesday, October 2nd, 6- 8 pm, Bellevue College (East King County) RSVP for 10/2
• Saturday, October 12th, 10 am – 12 pm, University of Washington (North & Central King County) RSVP for 10/12
• Wednesday, October 16th, 6-8 pm, Highline College (South King County) RSVP for 10/16

RSVPs are encouraged but not required. Can’t make it in person? Share your ideas using our online survey tool!

Tackling Climate Change through Food Waste Reduction Americans waste about 25 percent of all food and drinks we buy, to the tune of $130 every single month. It’s a growing problem with significant financial and environmental impacts. When we throw away food, we also waste all the water, energy and fuel used to produce, package and transport food from the farm to our plates. Uneaten food accounts for 23 percent of all methane emissions in the U.S. – a potent climate change contributor. We can all make a big difference for our grocery budgets and the environment, including climate change, by wasting less food. Learn how to better store your food to prevent food waste today!

You can learn more about County climate actions and strategies on our website. Find information on our Strategic Climate Action Plan (SCAP), Partnerships and Collaborations, and Initiatives and Programs. Learn more about climate change, its impacts in King County, and what you can do.