GHG Emissions  -  October 11, 2021

Iowa City Surpasses 2030 Emissions Reduction Target

Iowa City has reduced its carbon emissions by 49% since 2010, surpassing its goal to decrease emissions by 45% before 2030.

The milestone will give the city a head start on its goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, the Daily Iowan reported. Some initiatives to assist with this target include the TIF-funded Matching Grant Energy Efficiency Program, which has provided approximately $1.4 million in funding for efficiency and solar projects in commercial and industrial properties.

Additionally, the city awarded $45,000 this year in Climate Action Grant funds to local nonprofits for solar and energy efficiency projects. Further incentives such as the granting of awards at the Iowa City Climate Fest to winners in categories of adaptation, buildings, waste management, transportation and sustainable lifestyle have helped bring businesses onboard the effort for emissions reductions.

“We are very excited about the emissions reduction progress we’ve made in such a short time, but we know there is still plenty of work ahead to reach our goal of net zero emissions by 2050,” Rachel Kilburg, assistant city manager, told the publication.