HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 09/29/2015 - ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES DEPARTMENT STRATEGIC PLANDATE:
STAFF:
September 29, 2015
Lucinda Smith, Environmental Sustainability Director
WORK SESSION ITEM
City Council
SUBJECT FOR DISCUSSION
Environmental Services Department Strategic Plan.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to provide City Council with an update on the development of the Environmental
Services Department Strategic Plan and to receive input from City Council about the direction of the draft plan.
The draft plan includes goals and strategies, organized around five themes, to guide the Environmental Services
Department’s work:
Climate Commitment
Be Air Aware
Road to Zero Waste
Lead by Example
Collaborate and Act Regionally
GENERAL DIRECTION SOUGHT AND SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED
1. Does City Council support the five themes in the plan?
2. Are there any themes, goals or strategies missing that Council feels the plan should include?
3. Are there any goals or strategies in which the City should not be involved?
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
The City of Fort Collins has long embraced the concept of sustainability. The City defines sustainability as: “To
systematically, creatively, and thoughtfully utilize environmental, human, and economic resources to meet our
present needs and those of future generations without compromising the ecosystems on which we depend.”
Of these three tenets of sustainability, the City has the longest history focusing on the environment aspects of
sustainability, as illustrated by City Council commitments to a range of environmental conservation and protection
efforts. Solid waste reduction and air quality policies and programs have been implemented by the City of Fort
Collins starting in the 1980s. These programs were originally housed in the City’s Natural Resources
Department. The Environmental Services Department (ESD) was formed in 2012 by splitting the Natural
Resources Department into two separate departments; Environmental Services Department and the Natural
Areas Department. ESD provides policy and program work in areas of sustainability, air quality, climate action,
waste reduction, citizen engagement and meaningful performance measurement.
Environmental Service Department Vision: Promote, protect, and enhance a healthy and sustainable
environment
ESD is one of three departments, along with Economic Health and Social Sustainability, which were combined to
form the Sustainability Services Area in 2012. This unique organizational structure was intentionally created to
integrate considerations of the “triple bottom line” or People, Planet and Profit, and to develop policies and
programs that heighten awareness of sustainability with the community.
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Over the past two+ decades, numerous policy plans and strategic plans have been developed to guide the work
of ESD. These include the Framework for Environmental Action (1992), Air Quality Policy Plan (first plan in
1994), Pay-As-You-Throw trash/recycling ordinance (1995), the first Climate Action Plan (first plan in 1999) and
the municipal sustainability plan (first plan in 2006). While numerous topic-specific guiding plans exist, we do not
have one over-arching strategic plan for the department.
The objectives of developing a comprehensive departmental strategic plan include:
• Increase interconnectedness of programs within ESD
• Deeper integration of Triple Bottom Line in conjunction with the Economic Health and Social Sustainability
departments
• Reduce gaps in City environmental protection
• Identify and plan for emerging trends
• Develop a strategic plan for 5-10+ year horizon
ESD Strategic Plan Structure
Like the Economic Health Strategic Plan (2015) and the draft Social Sustainability Strategic Plan, the ESD Plan is
organized into themes. The ESD Plan themes are defined to help the reader understand what we work on,
recognizing that ESD does not handle all aspects of environmental health within our City government. The five
themes are:
Climate Commitment
Be Air Aware
Road to Zero Waste
Lead by Example
Collaborate and Act Regionally
Like the other Sustainability Services Areas strategic plans, each theme provides discussion on:
Alignment to the City’s Strategic Plan
Challenges
Data Points
Our Vision
Our Role
Integration of the Triple Bottom Line
Goals, with strategies and metrics
Summary of ESD Strategic Plan Themes and Goals
(See Attachment 1 for a full copy of the draft ESD Strategic Plan.)
CLIMATE COMMITMENT
Alignment with City‘s Strategic Plan
Support sustainable infill and redevelopment to meet climate action strategies. (ECON 3.7)
Reduce GHG emissions by creating a built environment focused on green building and mobile emissions
reductions (ENV 4.4)
Increase the community’s resiliency and preparedness for changes in climate, weather and resource
availability (ENV 4.7)
Our Vision
A healthy, safe, sustainable, and carbon-neutral community that innovates solutions to climate change.
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Goals
A-1 Rapidly advance the green built environment
A-2 Engage the community and persuade and empower to act
A-3 Increase City organization’s preparedness and resiliency to climate change impacts
A-4 Support innovation to accelerate implementation of 2015 Climate Action Plan Framework to achieve 20%
GHG reduction below 2005 by 2020, 80% by 2030, and carbon neutral by 2050
A-5 Support City efforts to preserve the ecosystem upon which we depend
A-6 Continue responsible climate planning and progress reporting
BE AIR AWARE
Alignment with City‘s Strategic Plan
Promote health and wellness within the community (CNL 1.6)
Implement indoor and outdoor air quality improvement initiatives.(ENV 4.3)
Our Vision
A community that is vigilant about protecting the quality of the air we breathe and continually strives to improve it.
Goals
B-1 Focus on local actions that will reduce air pollutants of concern including ozone and radon
B-2 Continually improve indoor and outdoor air quality to enhance the community’s health
B-4 Promote air quality protection within the City organization
B-4 Support and leverage air quality co-benefits of climate action initiatives
ROAD TO ZERO WASTE
Alignment with City‘s Strategic Plan
Promote health and wellness within the community (CNL 1.6)
Demonstrate progress toward achieving zero waste within the community and the City organization (ENV
4.11)
Our Vision
A community of minimal waste where discarded resources are diverted from the waste stream as efficiently as
possible and are put to beneficial secondary use as locally as possible.
Goals
C-1 Reduce the flow of materials sent for landfill disposal and foster greater resilience in managing waste
materials to lower greenhouse gas emissions and to achieve 75% waste diversion by 2020, 90% by 2025
and zero waste by 2030.
C-2 Increase the focus on preventing high-value material from being sent to landfills that could
instead support the recycling and materials recovery industry
C-3 Expand the culture of environmental stewardship that first and foremost seeks to reduce waste at the
source to support the adopted 2025 goal of 2.8 pounds trash/person/day.
C-4 Provide education and information about waste reduction and recycling opportunities, empowering
residents to take personal and collective action.
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LEAD BY EXAMPLE
Alignment with City‘s Strategic Plan
Implement leading-edge and innovative practices that drive performance excellence and quality
improvements across all Service Areas. (HPG 7.10)
Engage citizens in ways to educate and change behavior toward more sustainable living practices (ENV 4.6)
Our Vision
A communitywide and organizational culture of sustainability in which the City plays a leadership role.
Goals
D-1 Advance the City organization’s progress on comprehensive sustainability principles
and goals
D-2 Educate and inspire the community, City leadership and staff about environmental sustainability
D-3 Advance consideration of the triple bottom line in City-wide decision-making
D-4 Ensure high-quality data is used in decision-making
COLLABORATE AND ACT REGIONALLY
Alignment with City‘s Strategic Plan
Increase the community’s resiliency and preparedness for changes in climate, weather and resource
availability (ENV 4.7)
Demonstrate progress towards achieving net zero energy (ENV 4.5)
Our Vision
A region that partners to address environmental issues that extend beyond municipal boundaries
Goals
E-1 Act with others to implement deep carbon reduction measures
E-2 Increase awareness and engagement in climate adaptation
E-3 Advance community environmental objectives through participation in legislative and regulatory
processes, while considering the triple bottom line
E-4 Improve environmental quality through collaboration with regional partners and organizations
Public Engagement and Resulting Modifications to the First Draft
Public outreach to date has included the following:
Speaking to the City Council advisory boards “Super Board” meeting on July 29
Sending a memo to all City Council advisory board staff liaisons, seeking feedback on the plan and offering a
presentation
Posting the draft plan and a comment box on the Web site at www.fcgov.com/environmentalservices/
Meeting with four boards (Air Quality, Economic Advisory Commission, Natural Resources, and
Transportation) (Staff is also scheduled to meet with the Energy Board on Oct. 1.)
Meeting with the Fort Collins Chamber of Commerce’s Local Legislative Affairs Committee (Staff is also
scheduled to meet with the Sierra Club Poudre Canyon Group on Oct. 12.)
Attachment 2 provides the feedback gathered to date from public outreach. A few key comments staff heard in
this outreach are:
September 29, 2015 Page 5
1. The (first draft) plan is not complete because it does not address water.
2. How does the plan integrate with or interact with the other two plans in SSA?
3. Incorporate specific goals if they exist.
Changes were made to the first draft plan to address these and other comments from the public. Attachment 1,
presented here for City Council feedback, represents the second draft of the pan.
How will this Plan be used?
The visions, goals and strategies identified in the ESD Strategic Plan are to be considered no more or less
important than the City commitment to social well-being and economic health, and must be considered in the
context of City Plan, the City’s Strategic Plan, the Economic Health Strategic Plan, the (draft) Social Sustainability
Strategic Plan and other similar plans.
Goals and strategies in the ESD Strategic plan will be used to guide input into the biennial update of the City’s
Strategic Plan and into the biennial budget process. Staff work plans will be developed based on approved
budget offers. The ESD Strategic Plan includes some strategies and goals that are not currently funded within
ESD’s on-going budget. As staff works to implement the strategies and achieve the goals identified in this plan,
staff will look to the Budgeting for Outcomes (BFO) process and other sources of funding and resources to guide
the pace of implementation.
The Plan will evolve as City Council and community priorities evolve, and the Plan will be updated accordingly to
reflect that. Additionally, staff will work to refine the metrics into a limited set of meaningful metrics, so it is
expected the metrics will evolve over time.
Next Steps
Staff will continue to seek public feedback on the draft plan through mid-October. Any subsequent changes
suggested by staff in the final draft version will be highlighted for City Council’s awareness. The final draft plan
will be graphically laid out in a design similar to the 2015 Economic Health Strategic Plan. City Council is
scheduled to consider adoption of the ESD Strategic Plan on November 17, 2015. Council consideration of the
Social Sustainability Department Strategic Plan is also scheduled for November 17, 2015.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Environmental Services Department Strategic Plan (draft) (PDF)
2. Public Input (PDF)
3. Sustainability Assessment Summary and Tool (PDF)
4. Powerpoint presentation (PDF)
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EnvironmentalServicesDepartment
Draft
ʹͲͳͷ
ProjectSponsor:JackieKozakͲThiel
ProjectManager:LucindaSmith
ATTACHMENT 1
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TableofContents
INTRODUCTION
CityofFortCollinsCommitmenttoSustainability………………………………………………………………… 5
WhatisEnvironmentalSustainability?.................................................................................... 5
EnvironmentalServicesroleinprotectingFortCollins’environmentalhealth?..................... 5
EnvironmentalServicesDepartmentVisioandMission………………………………………………………………. 6
ObjectivesofEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentStrategicPlan……………………………………….. 6
PlanStructure………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7
A. CLIMATECOMMITMENT
AlignmenttotheCityofFortCollinsStrategicPlan………………………………………………………………… 9
Challenges………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9
DataPoints…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10
OurVision……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10
OurRole………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10
IntegrationwiththeTripleBottomLine…………………………………………………………………………………… 11
Goals……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 11
A.1Rapidlyadvancethegreenbuiltenvironment
A.2Engagethecommunityandpersuadeandempowertoact
A.3IncreaseCityorganization’spreparednessandresiliencyforclimatechangeimpacts
A.4Supportinnovationtoaccelerateimplementationofthe2015CAPFrameworktoachieve
20%GHGreductionbelow2005by2020,80%by2030,andcarbonneutralby2050
A.5SupportCityeffortstopreservetheecosystemsuponwhichwedepend
A.6Continueresponsibleclimateplanningandprogressreporting
B. BEAIRAWARE
AlignmenttotheCityofFortCollinsStrategicPlan………………………………………………………………… 16
Challenges………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 16
DataPoints…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 17
OurVision……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 17
OurRole………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 17
IntegrationwiththeTripleBottomLine…………………………………………………………………………………… 17
Goals……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18
B.1Focusonlocalactionsthatwillreduceairpollutantsofconcernincludingozoneandradon
B.2Continuallyimproveindoorandoutdoorairqualitytoenhancethecommunity’shealth
B.3PromoteairqualityprotectionwithintheCityorganization
B.4SupportandleverageairqualitycoͲbenefitsofclimateactioninitiatives
C. ROADTOZEROWASTE
AlignmenttotheCityofFortCollinsStrategicPlan………………………………………………………………… 21
Challenges………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 21
DataPoints…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 22
OurVision……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 22
OurRole………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 22
IntegrationwiththeTripleBottomLine…………………………………………………………………………………… 23
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Goals……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 23
CͲ1Reducetheflowofmaterialssentforlandfilldisposalandfostergreaterresilience
inmanagingwastetolowergreenhousegasemissionsandachieve75%waste
diversionby2020,90%by20205andzerowasteby2030.
CͲ2IncreasethefocusonpreventinghighͲvaluematerialfrombeingsenttolandfills
thatcouldinsteadsupporttherecyclingandmaterialsrecoveryindustry
CͲ3Expandthecultureofenvironmentalstewardshipthatfirstandforemostseeks
toreducewasteatthesourcetosupporttheadopted2025goalof2.8poundsoftrash
perpersonperday
CͲ4Provideeducationandinformationaboutwastereductionandrecyclingopportunities,
empoweringresidentstotakepersonalandcollectiveaction
D. LEADBYEXAMPLE
AlignmenttotheCityofFortCollinsStrategicPlan………………………………………………………………… 27
Challenges………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 27
DataPoints…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 28
OurVision……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 28
OurRole………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 28
IntegrationwiththeTripleBottomLine…………………………………………………………………………………… 28
Goals……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 29
DͲ1AdvancetheCityorganization’sprogressoncomprehensivesustainabilityprinciples
andgoals
DͲ2Educateandinspirethecommunity,Cityleadershipandstaffaboutenvironmental
sustainability
DͲ3AdvanceconsiderationofthetriplebottomlineinCityͲwidedecisionͲmaking
DͲ4EnsurehighͲqualitydataisusedindecisionͲmaking
E. COLLABORATEANDACTREGIONALLY
AlignmenttotheCityofFortCollinsStrategicPlan………………………………………………………………… 32
Challenges………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 32
OurVision……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 32
OurRole………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 32
IntegrationwiththeTripleBottomLine…………………………………………………………………………………… 33
Goals……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 33
EͲ1Actwithotherstoimplementdeepcarbonreductionmeasures
EͲ2Increaseawarenessandengagementinclimateadaptation
EͲ3Advancecommunityenvironmentalobjectivesthroughparticipationinlegislativeand
regulatoryprocesses,whileconsideringthetriplebottomline
EͲ4Improveenvironmentalqualitythroughcollaboratewithregionalpartnersandorganization
IMPLEMENTATION…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 36
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 40
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CityofFortCollinsCommitmenttoSustainability
TheCitydefinessustainabilityas:
“Tosystematically,creatively,andthoughtfullyutilizeenvironmental,human,andeconomicresourcesto
meetourpresentneedsandthoseoffuturegenerationswithoutcompromisingtheecosystemsonwhich
wedepend.”
TheCity’sSustainabilityServicesArea(SSA)consistsofEnvironmentalServices,EconomicHealth,and
SocialSustainability.ThemissionofSSAistodeliveronthisdefinitionofsustainabilityby:
(1)encouragingtheTripleBottomLine(TBL)perspectivebeappliedtoallCityprojects;and
(2)engaginginactivitiesthatsupporttheTBLinourcommunity,asshownintheVenndiagram.
(insertdiagram)
TheCity’scommitmenttosustainabilityisseenthrough:
x Continuedexpressionofthecommunity’sresolvetoactsustainably:tosystematically,creatively,
andthoughtfullyutilizeenvironmental,social,andeconomicresourcestomeetpresentneedsand
thoseoffuturegenerationswithoutcompromisingtheecosystemsonwhichwedepend.
x Policiesandactionsthatarenotdevelopedandimplementedinisolationfromoneanother;rather,
thefocusisonintegration.
x Encouragementofsystemsthinkingtorecognizeandemphasizeinterrelationshipsamongall
aspectsofCityoperations.
x Recognitionoftheinterdependenteconomic,social,andenvironmentalimplicationsofpolicies,
decisions,andoutcomes.
x Recognitionofthebenefitsandtradeoffsacrossallthreeareas(social,economic,and
environmental).
WhatisEnvironmentalSustainability?
Environmentalsustainabilityfocusesonprotectingthenaturalenvironmentforthebenefitofboth
ecosystemsandhumanhealth.ThevalueofahealthyenvironmentisrecognizedinmanyCityofFort
Collinsplansandpolicydocuments.The2011CityPlanhasastrongfocusonenvironmentalhealth,
recognizingthatenvironmentalhealthalsobolsterseconomichealthandiscriticaltoahighqualityof
life.Recognizingthis,CityPlanandtheCityofFortCollinsStrategicPlancallforFortCollinstopromote,
protectandenhanceahealthyandsustainableenvironment.
EnvironmentalServicesDepartment’sroleinprotectingFortCollins’
environmentalhealth
ManyCitydepartmentsworktosupporttheenvironmentalhealthofFortCollins.TheEnvironmental
ServicesDepartmentplaysoneoftheleadingrolesinthateffort.
TheEnvironmentalServicesDepartment(ESD)providesprogramsandservicestothecommunityand
CityorganizationthatefficientlypursueCouncilpoliciesonsustainability,air,climate,wastereduction,
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citizenengagementandmeaningfulperformancemeasurement.Weworktodeliverreductionsin
indoorandoutdoorairemissions,increasewastediversionandrecycling,reducetheenvironmental
footprintofthecommunityandmunicipalorganization,andproviderigorousenvironmentaldata
tracking/reporting.
SolidwastereductionandairqualityprogramshavebeenimplementedbytheCityofFortCollinsfor
years,startinginthe1980’s.TheseprogramswereoriginallyhousedintheCity’sNaturalResources
Department.TheEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentwasformedin2012,followingasplitofthe
NaturalResourcesDepartmentintotwoseparatedepartments;ESDandNaturalAreas.
ESDisonethreedepartments,alongwithEconomicHealthandSocialSustainability,thatwere
combinedtoformtheSustainabilityServicesAreain2012.Thisuniqueorganizationalstructurewas
intentionallycreatedtointegrateconsiderationsofthe“triplebottomline”orPeople,PlanetandProfit,
andtodeveloppoliciesandprogramsthatheightenawarenessofsustainabilitywiththecommunity.
EnvironmentalServicesDepartmentVision
Promote,protect,andenhanceahealthyandsustainableenvironment
EnvironmentalServicesDepartmentMission
Weexistbecauseourcommunityandtheworldhavearighttoahealthy,enduringecosystemand
environment.
ObjectivesoftheEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentStrategicPlan
TheobjectivesofcreatingaunifiedEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentStrategicPlaninclude:
x IncreaseinterconnectednessofprogramswithinESD
x DeepenintegrationoftheTripleBottomLine
x Identifyexistingandpotentfuturetrendsthatmustbeconsideredwhendevelopingstrategies
tomeetpolicyobjectivesforenvironmentalhealth
x IntegratetheESDStrategicPlanwiththestrategicplansforEconomicHealthandSocial
Sustainability
x ConsiderpotentialgapsinCitypolicies,programorservicestoprotectenvironmentalhealthand
address,ifneeded
x Provideastrategicplanfordepartmentalactivitieswitha10+yearplanninghorizon
Thevisions,goalsandstrategiesidentifiedintheESDStrategicPlanaretobeconsiderednomoreorless
importantthantheCitycommitmenttosocialwellͲbeingandeconomichealth,andmustbeconsidered
inthecontextofPlanFortCollins,theEconomicHealthStrategicPlan,the(draft)SocialSustainability
StrategicPlanandothersimilarplans.
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PlanStructure
TheESDStrategicPlanisstructuredinfivemajorthemesthatrepresentkeyareasofthedepartment’s
work.Eachthemeincludeschallenges,ourvisionforthefuture,theroleofEnvironmentalServices,and
goals.Eachgoalisaccompaniedbystrategiesintendedtohelpmeetthegoal,andmetricswithwhichto
evaluateprogress.WhilethegoalsarelongerͲterm(10+years),thestrategiesaregenerallyshorterͲ
term(5year).WorktorefinethemetricsintoalimitedsetofmeaningfulmetricswillbeonͲgoingsoitis
expectedthemetricswillevolveovertime.
BiennialworkplanswillbedevelopedbasedontheESDStrategicPlan’sstrategiesandapprovedbudget
offers.ItisimportanttonotethatthePlanincludessomestrategiesandgoalsthatarenotcurrently
fundedwithinESD’sonͲgoingbudget.Asweworktoimplementthestrategiesandachievethegoals
identifiedinthisplan,wewilllooktotheBudgetingforOutcomes(BFO)processandothersourcesof
fundingandresourcestoguidethepaceofimplementation.ThePlanwillevolveasCityCounciland
communityprioritiesevolve,andthePlanwillbeupdatedaccordingly.
ThefivethemesoftheESDStrategicPlanare:
x ClimateCommitment
x BeAirAware
x RoadtoZeroWaste
x LeadbyExample
x CollaborateandActRegionally
TheEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentservesfourprimaryrolesintheprotectionofenvironmental
health.Inthisplan,theprimaryroleoftheEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentwillbenotedaftereach
strategyasoneofthefollowing:
1. Lead—ESDhastheleadroleinimplementingthegoalorstrategy(thiscouldinclude
implementation,education,policydevelopment,regulation,coordination,facilitation,
convening,advocating,orfunding).
2. ConsultͲESDwillprovidetechnicalservices,data,analysesandinputtootherCitydepartments
andexternalstakeholderstoimplementthegoalorstrategy.
3. Partner—ESDwillpartnerwithotherCitydepartmentsand/orlocalagenciestoimplementthe
goalthroughtheprovisionofsupportincludingfundingsupport.
4. Collaborate—ESDwillcollaboratewithotherCitydepartmentsand/orotheragenciesor
organizationstoimplementthegoalorstrategy.(Thiscouldincludeadvocacy.)
ESDFoundationalDocuments
CityCouncilandtheFortCollinscommunityhavealonghistoryofcommitmenttoenvironmental
protectioneffortsandconsequently,ESDhasdevelopedmanypolicydocumentsandstrategicplansto
guideitsefforts.KeyexistingESDpolicyandplanningdocumentsarelistedbelow.
x 2015ClimateActionPlanFramework
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2013RoadtoZeroWastePlan
2013MunicipalSustainabilityManagementPlan
2013RoadmapforGreenBuilding
2012WasteCharacterization
2011AirQualityPlan
2011AirQualityandRecyclingCitizenSurvey
AdditionalReferences
2014CityofFortCollinsStrategicPlan
2011CityPlanandTransportationMasterPlan—CityPlanisthecomprehensiveplanforthe
CityofFortCollins,andillustrateshowweenvisionFortCollinsoverthenext25yearsand
beyond.Itshowsushowwecangettherestepbystep.TheTransportationMasterPlan(TMP)
servestoexplainaboldvisionforthelongͲtermmultimodaltransportationsystemsupporting
theFortCollinscommunitywellintothefuture.TheTMPprovidespolicydirectionfordecisions
regardingtheimplementationofthetransportationsystemtoachievethecommunity’svision.
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Ǥ
ThescienceisclearͲclimatechangeisalreadyoccurringandisnolongeradistantthreat.Thecostof
inactionisunacceptable.Globally,theriseintemperatureshasprofoundimplicationsfornatural
resources,economicprosperity,healthandhumandevelopment.FortCollinshaslongcommittedto
reducingcommunitygreenhousegas(GHG)emissions.FortCollinsincreasinglymonitorslocal
vulnerabilitytohighertemperatures,andwaterqualityandsupplyissues,andisactivelyexploringways
toadaptandbecomemoreresilient.Since1999,FortCollinshaspursueddeliberateactionstoreduce
communityGHGemissionandmakeadifferencewithinourcommunitythathasglobalbenefits.On
March3,2015,theFortCollinsCityCouncilunanimouslyadoptedsomeofthemostaggressive
communitycarbonreductiongoalsinthenation,reinforcingtheCity’scommitmenttopreservingwhat
wevalue.Withpastactions,FortCollinshasastrongfoundationfromwhichtocontinueandexpand
effortstoreduceemissionandprepareforclimatechangeinordertoprotectourqualityoflife.
AlignmenttotheCityofFortCollinsStrategicPlan
Workingtoreduceourlocalgreenhousegasemissionsandtoprepareforachangingclimateserves
aspectsofallsevenoutcomeareasidentifiedinCityPlanandinthecityofFortCollinsStrategicPlan.
Keystrategicobjectivesarelistedbelow.
x Promotehealthandwellnesswithinthecommunity.(CNL1.6)
x Promoteahealthycommunityandresponsibleaccesstonature.(C&R2.7)
x Supportsustainableinfillandredevelopmenttomeetclimateactionstrategies.(ECON3.7)
x ReduceGHGemissionsbycreatingabuiltenvironmentfocusedongreenbuildingandmobile
emissionsreductions(ENV4.4)
x Increasethecommunity’sresiliencyandpreparednessforchangesinclimate,weatherand
resourceavailability(ENV4.7)
x Improvecommunityinvolvement,educationandregionalpartnershipstomakeourcommunity
saferandstronger.(SAFE5.8)
x Supporteffortstoachieveclimateactiongoalsbyreducingmobileemissionsandsupporting
multiplemodesoftransportation.(TRANS6.6)
x Proactivelyinfluencepolicyatotherlevelsofgovernmentregulation.(HPG7.11)
Challenges
x NeedtostrengthenandmaintaininternalCityorganizationalsupportandalignment
x Communitygrowthandincreasingvehiclemileoftravelposechallengestoreducingcommunity
carbonfootprint
x CompetingprioritieswithintheCity
x Businessperceptionthatthiswillonlycostthemmoney
x Settinggoalsordevelopingplansbasedoninaccurateassumptions(i.e.whatiftechnologydoes
notadvanceatthepaceanticipated;whatifitcostsmorethananticipated,whatifwedon’tfind
amechanismtofundtheseactivities;whatifourefforthavenoeffectonclimatechange?)
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x Needfornewfinancingapproachestobuydownfirstcostsandtofundlargecapitalinvestments
x NeedtoaddresstheelectricitysupplymixtogetherwithPlatterRiverPowerAuthoritymember
jurisdictions
x Adaptationandmitigationstrategiesaren’talwaysaligned
x Lackofprivatesectorresourcestobuytechnologies
x Standardizingdataquality
x Emergingscienceonclimatechangeandenvironmentalimpactscanrequirechanging
responses,strategies,andpriorities
x Developingmetricsforqualitativedata
x Maintainingdataqualitybecomesdifficultwithlargerdatasetsandmoredatacollection.
x Communicatinguncertaintyaboutclimatechangetothepublic
x DecisionͲmakingandplanningbasedonincompletedata
DataPoints
x 2014ClimateActionPlanStatusReport
http://www.fcgov.com/climateprotection/pdf/2014_CAPStatus_WebFinal.pdf
x 2013MunicipalSustainabilityAnnualReport
http://www.fcgov.com/sustainability/annualreports/2013Ͳreport.pdf
x FortCollinsClimateChangePrimer
http://www.fcgov.com/climateprotection/pdf/fortcollinsclimatechangeprimer2013.pdf
x FortCollinsExtremeHeatReport
http://www.fcgov.com/climateprotection/pdf/heatͲreportͲjanͲ2014.pdf
OurVision
Ahealthy,safe,sustainable,andcarbonͲneutralcommunitythatinnovatessolutionstoclimatechange.
OurRole
TheEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentplaysthefollowingrolesrelativeto“ClimateCommitment”
Lead,coordinateandtrackinterdepartmentaleffortstoimplementthe2015CAPFramework
Lead,coordinateandtrackinterdepartmentaleffortstoreducegreenhousegasemissionsfrom
themunicipalorganization
Implementprogramsthatreducecommunityandmunicipalgreenhousegasemissions
Conductcommunityeducationandengagementthatsupportsgreenhousegasreduction
Leadandcoordinateinterdepartmentaleffortstodevelopplanstoprepareforandadaptto
climatedisruption
Collaboratewithregional,stateandnationalpeersandpartnerstoadvancecarbonreduction
andpreparednessinitiatives
ProvidestateͲofͲtheͲartstandardizedmethodsforcommunitycarbonaccountingandan
accurateandtimelyannualcommunityGHGemissioninventory.
Ensurehighqualitycarbondatathroughimplementingcentralizedqualityassuranceandquality
control
Reportannuallyoncommunity’sprogresstowardsadoptedcommunitycarbongoals.
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IntegrationwiththeTripleBottomLine
Environmental–Reducinggreenhouse(GHG)emissionsalsoreducesairpollutionanditsharmful
impactstoecosystems,reducesfossilfuelextractionimpacts,andlessenswastesenttolandfills,
therebyforestallingtheneedforbuildinganewlandfill.Climateadaptationstrategiescanpreserve
vitalecosystemservices
Social–ReducingGHGemissionsalsoreducesmanyotherairpollutionemissionsthatcanharmhuman
health.Climatemitigationactionssuchasexpandedmobilitychoicesandincreasedurbandensitycan
alsoincreasecitizenaccesstoservicesanddecreasecostofliving.Anticipatingandpreparingfor
extremeheatandotherclimatedisruptionscanprotectcitizens’healthandwelfare.Environmental
justiceisacommonconceptinenvironmentalscienceandencouragesconsiderationofsocialimpacts
acrossmanycommunitygroups.
Economic–ReducingGHGemissionsprovidessignificantnewbusinessopportunitiesinareasthat
includebuildingretrofitsandnewbuildingconstruction,expansionofelectricvehicleinfrastructure,and
researchandtechnologydevelopmentincleanenergyandinnovativefinancingsolutions.The
immediacyoftheneedforcarbonreductionstoaverta2degreeFahrenheitincreaserequireslargecuts
inemissions,soeffortsmustfocusonfindingfeasibleeconomicstrategiestomakethesecutspossible
withoutnegativelyimpactingbusinessesorresidents.
GoalA.1:Rapidlyadvancegreenbuiltenvironment
Strategy1:CollaboratewithallCityserviceareastopromoteregenerative,restorativeand
sustainabledevelopmentprinciplesthrough:(Collaborate)
x FormalizeaCityGreenBuiltEnvironmentProgramforsharedawareness,increased
collaboration,andtoprovideaforumforreviewofmajorplanninganddevelopmentproposals
x EngageinlongͲrangeplanningwithotherCitydepartmentstoensurethatexistingandfuture
greenprogramsfunctionwelltogetherandareeasyforthepublictonavigateandparticipatein
x Identify,addressandresolvemisalignmentsofexistingCitypoliciesthatcreateobstaclestoa
greenbuiltenvironment
x Workwithotherdepartmentstoimplementvoluntaryandeventuallymandatorybuilding
energyperformancedisclosuresattimeofsaleorlease
x Workwithrepresentativesofthelocalbusinessanddevelopmentcommunitytogatherinputon
thedevelopmentreviewprocessandotherphasesofthebuildingprocess,andsharefindings
withotherCitydepartmentswiththeobjectiveofenhancingtheprocessestoensuretheCity’s
desiredoutcomes.
Strategy2:DevelopmarketǦbasedinitiativestoencourageefficiencyandsustainabledesignin
thebuiltenvironmentthrough:(LeadandCollaborate)
x Research,documentandpromotebestpractices
x IdentifymarketmechanismsandfinancialinstrumentsthateitherwhollyͲfundsustainability
projectsorminimizeCityassistanceandmaximizetheleverageofCityfunds
x Increaseawarenessamongareabusinessesoftheavailabilityandvalueofgreenfinancing
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Strategy3:Supportthedevelopmentandimplementationofadvancedbuildingcodeswith
specialemphasisonenergyefficiencyinexistingbuildingstock.(Consult)
Strategy4:Coordinatewithotherdepartmentstodeveloppublicinformationalresourcesand
engagebuilders,developers,designers,residentsandCityemployees,including(Leadand
Collaborate)
x Maintainasimple,effectiveonlinepresence
x ProvidebasiceducationongreenbuildingforCitystaffthatregularlyworkwiththe
developmentcommunity
x Utilizea“pointͲofͲsale”approachtoreachdesigners,contractors,andmembersofthegeneral
publicregardinggreenpractices,codesandproducts,incentives,etc.
x IncreasedirectoutreachtosmallandmidͲsizebusinessestocapturethegreatestnumberof
commercialutilitycustomers;
x Withotherdepartments,developaneducationprogramsandresourcesforhomeownersand
businessesonthefinancialbenefitsofgreendesignandconstruction
Metrics
x PercentchangeovertimeinnumberofgreenͲcertified(EͲStar,LEED,etc.)buildingsinFort
Collins(STARmetric)
x Buildingcodecompliance
x NumberofbuildertrainingsofferedbytheCity
x Numberof“pointofsale”transactions(attimeofpermit,buildingupgrade,sale)
GoalA.2:Engagethecommunityandpersuadeandempowertoact
Strategy1:Provideprojectmanagementforthe“LoseǦAǦWatt”Campaign(2015Ǧ2016)(Lead)
Strategy2:Fosterrelationshipsandstrategicpartnershipstodeepeninvolvementonclimate
actionwithinthecommunity.(Partner)
x Identify,highlight,andstrategizeonsharedcarbonreductiongoalsorotherrelatedgoals
x IncreasecollaborationwiththeacademicsectorforprovisionofinformationandserviceͲ
learningopportunities
x PartnerwithandsupportnonͲprofitandfaithͲbasedcommunitycarbonreductionefforts
x Provideinformationandengagementopportunitiestobusinesses’andemployees
x Identifycommunityleadersorprominentfigurestobecomespokespeopleforaction
Strategy3:Identifyandaddressbarriersandopportunitiespresentedby2015CAPstrategies
tobusinessesandcitizens,withemphasisonvulnerableandunderǦservedsegmentsofthe
community(Collaborate)
x EngagewithaffordablehousingprovidersandHealthyHomesprogramtoidentifypotential
impactsofclimateactionstrategiesanddevelopsolutions
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x ParticipateandsupportthereͲtoolingofClimateWisetoencouragegreaterawareness,action
andresultsbybusinesses.
x Providetechnicalassistancetosupportthe“ClimateEconomy”goalsoutlinedintheEconomic
HealthStrategicPlan.
x Promotesuccessfulbusinesspracticesandmodelsthatcreateorextracteconomicvaluefrom
carbonreductionandclimateadaptationactivities.
Strategy4:Developkeymessagingpointsandmarketingmaterialsinconjunctionwith
Utilities’SegmentationStudy,SixAmerica’sstudy,andotherrelevantresearch(Collaborate)
Strategy5:Prioritizeimpactfulstrategiesandimplementbestpractices(CommunityǦbased
socialmarketing,targetedmessaging,socialnorming)forselectedbehaviorchange
(Collaborate)
Metrics
x Annualnumberofpeoplereceivingsustainabilityeducation
x Percentofcitizensrespondingverygood/goodtotheCity'sperformanceinencouraging
sustainabilityinthecommunity
x PercentdecreaseinClimateWisepartnersGreenhouseGas(GHG)emissionsfrom2005baseline
x Quarterlyresidentialandgovernmentenergyusage(MMBTU)–fromLoseͲAͲWatt
x Localinvestmentsinenergyconservationandcarbonreductionefforts
GoalA.3:IncreaseCityorganization’spreparednessandresiliencyto
climatechangeimpacts
Strategy1:SupportorganizationǦwideandupperǦlevelmanagement'scommitmenttodevelop
andimplementadaptationstrategiesthatareintegratedintoroutineCityplanninginitiatives
(LeadandConsult)
Metrics
x NumberofCitystrategicplansthatexplicitlyreferencefutureclimatedisruptionand/oridentify
strategiestoadapt,prepare,and/orstayabreastofevolvingclimatechangescience
x Futuremetricswillbedevelopedforadaptationstrategies
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GoalA.4:Supportinnovationtoaccelerateimplementationof2015
ClimateActionPlanFrameworktoachieve20%greenhousegas
reductionbelow2005by2020,80%by2030,andcarbonneutralby
2050.
Strategy1:Supportandenhance“triplehelix”partnerships(government,privatesector,
academia)suchasFortZEDandtheColoradoCleanEnergyCluster(Collaborate&Partner)
x ServeasliaisonforpotentialFortZEDpilotanddemonstrationprojectswithintheCity
organization
x Supporttargetedindustryclustersthatadvancecarbonreductionandsupportlocaljobs
x Supporteducationalandshowcaseeventstoincreasesustainabilityinnovation
x Supportthedevelopmentofreliable,highspeedinternetservicesthroughoutthecommunityto
increasetelecommutingandreduceemissionsfromdriving
Strategy2:Promoterelevantnationalandglobalbestpracticesandinnovationsolutionsto
morerapidlyadvanceprogressonCAPFrameworkstrategies(Collaborate)
x EvaluatelessonslearnedfromLoseͲAͲWattcampaignandemploysuccessesinfuture
engagement
x Supportandcollaborateonimplementationofadistrictscalepilotproject
Strategy3:PromotelowcarbonǦintensityvehicles(morefuelefficient,alternativeandelectric
vehicles)inthecommunity(Collaborate)
x SupportDriveElectricNorthernColoradoincludingengagingcitizensinEVtestdrives
x DevelopCitypoliciesforelectricvehiclechargingstationuse
x SupportNorthernColoradoCleanCitiesCoalition
Metrics
x NumberofelectricvehiclespurchasedbyFortCollinsresidents(fromDENC)
x Jobformationin“green”industries,businesses
x Communitypatentproduction(orothersimilarmeasure)ofrelevantinnovation
GoalAǦ5:SupportCityeffortstopreservetheecosystemsuponwhichwe
depend
Strategy1:AdvanceCityeffortstoprotectandimprovehealthywaterqualityandquantity
through:(CollaborateandConsult)
x Supportingindoorandoutdoorwaterconservationandefficiencyinitiatives
x Supportingimplementationandenhancementofgreeninfrastructureandlowimpact
stormwaterdesign
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x Planningforclimatechangesandpopulationpressuresthatimpactwatersupplyandquality,
stormwatermanagement,andaquatic/riparianhabitats
x Participatingoninterdepartmentalteamstocontributetoenvironmentalaspectofprojects(e.g.
prioritizestormwaterrehabilitationsites,evaluateenvironmentalimpactsofwaterstorage
projects,giveinputonWaterEfficiencyPlan,etc.)
Strategy2:AdvanceCityeffortstoprotectandimprovehealthyecosystemsthrough:
(Collaborate)
x Exploringoptionsforlocalgreenhousegassequestration
x Exploringoptionstoimprovedsoilhealthandconservation
x SupportingevaluationandremediationofpollutedlandsinFortCollins
x SupportingimplementationofNatureintheCity
x Assistingwithplanningforandmitigationofclimatechangeimpactsonoururbanforestand
localhabitats
Metrics
x Restorationstatusofurbannaturalareas
x Overallwaterconservationprogrameffectiveness
GoalAǦ6:Continueresponsibleclimateplanningandprogressreporting
Sy1:Organizeandfacilitateinterdepartmentalteamsworkingonkeystrategic
initiativestoimplementthe2015ClimateActionPlanFramework(Lead)
Strategy2:Engagethepublicandkeystakeholdersindevelopmentoffutureclimateaction
policies,plans,andprogramsthrough:(Collaborate)
x Website
x Publicforums
x Meetingswithstakeholdergroups
x CommunityAdvisoryCommittee
Strategy3:ProvideupǦtoǦdateandcentralizedcarbonaccountingofcommunitycarbon
emissions(Lead)
Strategy4:Trackandreportannualprogressofmajorcommunitycarbonreduction
programs,projects,andpolicies(Lead)
Metrics
x Privateinvestmentinenergyconservationandcarbonreductionefforts
x AnnualupdateofGHGemissionsQualityManagementPlansandannualClimateStatusReport
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Ǥ
Cityresidentshavehighexpectationsforacleanenvironment,andtheCityhasdemonstrated
leadershipbyinvestinginairqualitystaffandprogramsforseveraldecades.TheCityhashadalongͲ
standingpolicyto“continuallyimproveairquality”.ResidentshaveidentifiedtheAirQualityProgramas
beingthesinglemostimportantprogramforprotectingtheirfuturequalityoflifeinpastsurveys.The
overarchinggoalto“continuallyimproveairquality”isparamountinourstrategicplanning.Theair
pollutantsofgreatestconcerninFortCollinsareozone,indoorairquality,greenhousegassesandfine
particles.TheCity’sairqualityprogramsupportsthefollowingprinciples,asidentifiedinthe2011Air
QualityPlan:
x respondstoastrongcitizenmandatefortheCitytoprotectandimproveairquality;
x recognizesthatcertainairqualityproblemsandopportunitiesaremosteffectivelyhandledat
thelocallevel;
x complementsandfillsgapsleftbyfederal,stateandcountyefforts;
x providesalongͲtermplanningframeworkforairqualityprotectionandimprovements;and
x recognizesandcoordinatestheeffortsofCityDepartmentsassistingwiththisprocess.
TheCityhasdevelopedinitiativesthatfocusonreducingbothoutdoorandindoorairpollution,and
implementspoliciesandprograms,provideseducationandincentives,andenactsregulation.
AlignmenttoCityStrategicPlan
TheCity’sAirQualityProgramworkstoimprovecommunityhealthbyengagingcitizensinwaysthat
educateandencouragebehaviorchangetowardmoresustainablelivingpractices,andtoimprove
communityinvolvement,education,andregionalpartnershipstomakeourcommunitysaferand
stronger.
x Promotehealthandwellnesswithinthecommunity(CNL1.6)
x Implementindoorandoutdoorairqualityimprovementinitiatives.(ENV4.3)
x Reducegreenhousegasemissionsbycreatingabuiltenvironmentfocusedongreenbuilding
andmobileemissionreductions.(ENV4.4)
x Engagecitizensinwaystoeducateandchangebehaviortowardmoresustainableliving
practices(ENV4.6)
x Improvecommunityinvolvement,educationandregionalpartnershipstomakeourcommunity
saferandstronger.(SAFE5.8)
x Supporteffortstoachieveclimateactiongoalsbyreducingmobileemissionsandsupporting
multiplemodesoftransportation(TRANS6.6)
x Proactivelyinfluencepolicyalallotherlevelsofgovernmentregulation.(HPG7.11)
Challenges
x ContinuedozonenonͲattainmentinFortCollinsandtheFrontRange
x Coordinationofairqualityprogramswithotherdepartmentsandinitiatives
x Makingtheairqualityprograms,initiatives,andplan,anessentialpartofallCityplanning,
decisionmakingandenforcement
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x Increasinggrowthanddevelopmentthatresultsinincreasedairemissions
x Lackofunderstandingandappreciationforhealthimpactsofindoorandoutdoorairquality
x IntegratingairqualityinitiativesintoClimateActionPlanimplementation
x Addressingtheairqualityimpactsofregionaltransportationissues
x Themorefrequentoccurrencesofclimaterelatedimpactsonairqualitysuchasextremeheat
andwildfiresmoke
x Newsocialtrendsandfadsthataffectairqualitysuchasincreasesinpreferredcookingover
woodfire,naturalgasfirepitsandheatersforatmosphere,androllingcoal(intentionally
emittingsootyexhaustthatvisiblypollutestheair).
DataPoints
x 2013FortCollinsAnnualAirQualityReport
http://www.fcgov.com/airquality/pdf/2014_AirQuality_Plan.pdf
OurVision
Acommunitythatisvigilantaboutprotectingthequalityoftheairwebreatheandcontinuallystrivesto
improveit.
OurRole
TheEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentplaysthefollowingrolesrelativeto“BeAirAware”
x Providescommunityinformationandeducationaboutairqualityissues
x Providesengagementprogramandincentivestopromoteairpollutionreduction
x Developsandimplementsairqualitypoliciesandregulations
x Tracksandreportsairpollutiondata
x ParticipatesinregulatoryruleͲmakingstoadvancetheCity’sairqualityobjectives
x Developsandimplementsairmonitoringsystems
x Developsandimplementsairqualitypoliciesandregulations
IntegrationoftheTripleBottomLine
Environmental–Theairqualityprograminformscitizensaboutairqualityissues,inspiresbehavior
changeinresidentstoimproveairquality,andimplementsstrategiesthatreduceairpollutant
emissions.Reducingairpollutionmayreduceitsharmfulimpactstothenaturalenvironment.Working
withcitizens,especiallylowerincomeolderadultstohelpthemcreatesaferandhealthierhomeswill
enhancetheirabilitytoageinplace.
Social–Theairqualityprogramprovidesopportunitiesforallresidentstolearnstrategiestoimprove
theairtheybreatheregardlessofsocioeconomicstatus.AirQualityprogramsandprojectsimprovethe
generalhealthofthecommunityandindividualswhilepromotingmoresustainablelivingpractices.
Reductioninairpollutionemissionscanalsoimprovevisualquality.
18|Page
Economic–Workingtocontinuallyimproveairqualityandtoachievenationalairqualityhealth
standardswillmakeFortCollinsattractivetocurrentandfutureemployers.Seriousviolationsof
nationalairqualitystandardscouldpotentiallyrestricttheflowoffederaltransportationdollarstoour
regionandplacestricteremissioncontrolsonindustry.
GoalB1:Focusonlocalactionsthatwillreduceairpollutantsofconcern
includingozoneandradon
Strategy1:ImproveOzoneActionPrograms(Lead)
x ImplementCleanLawnandGardenEquipmentProgram
x ImplementBreatheEasy–noidlingcampaign
x Developnewozoneactionandawarenessinitiatives
x DevelopandimplementtheElectrifyYourSummerevent
Strategy2:EnhanceAirQualityZeroInterestLoanprogram(Lead)
Strategy3:Improveradonoutreach(Lead)
x Utilizeresearchresultstodesignaradonmitigationstrategy
x Designapersonalizedresponseplanforresidentswithhighradonexposurerisk
x IncreaseprogrampotentialthroughadditionalgrantopportunitiesImprovetestkitawareness
andsales
Strategy4:Uselocalregulationsasneededtoimproveairquality(Lead)
Strategy5:Continuetoaddresstheairqualityimpactsfromregionaloilandgasdevelopment
(Lead)
x ParticipateindevelopmentofCitypolicy
x Conductairmonitoringandanalysis
x Supportandparticipateinregionalstudies
Strategy6:Planforaction,informcitizens,andreportairqualityinformationtothepublic
(Lead)
x Prepareanannualairqualityreportandupdatecommunitydashboardmetrics
x Conductperiodiccitizensurveystounderstandactions,motivations,andinterests
x PeriodicallyupdatetheCity’sairqualitypoliciesandAirQualityPlan
Metrics
x Outdoorairqualityindex(PM2.5andozone)
x Numberofparticipantslawnmowerprogram(or–airpollutionavoidedthroughprogram)
x NumberofwoodsmokecomplaintsmadetoCity
x PercentofAnnualAirQualityLoanfundawarded
x Visibilitydata
19|Page
GoalB.2:Continuallyimproveindoorandoutdoorairqualitytoenhance
thecommunity’shealth
Strategy1:Continuetogrowanddevelopindoorairqualityinitiatives,includingHealthy
Homesprogram(Lead)
x Recruit,train,support,andrecognizeMasterHomeEducators
x Providefreehomehealthassessmentstoresidents
x Conductcontinuouscommunityoutreachandeducation
x Collaboratewithlocalregionalandnationalindoorairqualityprograms
x Communicateemerginghealthimpactsofclimatechange
x Helpresidents,especiallylowerincomeagingadults,createhealthier,saferhome
Strategy2:Addressfugitivedustissues(Collaborate)
x Developnewordinance
x Provideguidanceandtrainingfordevelopers,community,andstaff
x ImplementadministrativepolicyforCityoperations
Strategy3:Determinetheprimaryissuesandconcernsofcommunitymembersthroughtheair
qualitysurvey(Lead)
Strategy4:Addressairqualityissuesfromsmoke(Collaborate)
x Developwildfiresmokeresponseplan
x Addressairqualityissuesfromoutdoorburning
x Enhancewoodstoveeducationandreplacementprogram
Strategy5:Promoteactivemodesoftransportation(walking,bicycling)(Collaborate)
x EngageindevelopmentofBike/Car/Rideshareprograms
x EngageinCityplanningprocessestopromoteinfilldevelopment,transitorienteddevelopment
x Supportcommunityresearchonexposuretocommuterpollutants
Metrics
x AnnualcumulativeHealthyHomes;#homesassessed,volunteerhours
x DecreasednumberofairqualitycomplaintsthroughFortCollinsAccesssystem(woodsmoke,dust)
x FuturemethodstomeasuredecreasedasthmaratesinFortCollins
20|Page
GoalB.3:PromoteairqualityprotectionwithintheCityorganization
Strategy1:BeresponsivetoinquiriesfromCitystaffonairqualityissues(Consult)
Strategy2:Participateinthedevelopmentreviewprocessforproposalsthatwillhaveamajor
impactonairquality(Collaborate)
Strategy3:CommunicatethetechnicalservicesandcapabilitiesoftheairprogramtoCity
departments(Lead)
Strategy4:Developamethodologyforassessingairqualityimpactsofmajortransportation
anddevelopmentprojectsandCityplanning.(Lead)
Metrics
x PercentofCityplansthatevaluatedairqualityimplications
GoalB.4:SupportandleverageairqualitycoǦbenefitsofclimateaction
initiatives
Strategy1:Identifyandcommunicatereductionsinairpollutantsfrom2015ClimateAction
PlanFrameworkimplementation(Lead)
Metrics
x Quantifiedairpollutantreductionsfromclimateactionstrategies
21|Page
Ǥ
In2013,FortCollinsCityCounciladoptedgoalstoachieve75percentwastediversionby2020,90
percentby2025,andzerowasteby2030.TheassociatedRoadtoZeroWastePlanalignscloselywith
tripleͲbottomͲlineprinciplesofeconomic,environmentalandsocialsustainabilityforthecommunity.
Theplancontainsatoolboxofstrategiesandideas,includingproposalstomakerecyclinguniversally
availableandaddingcompostablematerialstothecurbsidecollectionsystem.Fundingtoolswillbe
developedtoawardeconomicincentivesforlocalrecyclingentrepreneurs.Additionally,expanded
requirementsforconstructionanddemolitionrecycling,landfilldisposalbans(addingtoFortCollins’
currentprohibitionsonelectronicsandcardboard),andotherregulationswillbeexplored.
FortCollins’RoadtoZeroWastePlancallsforconsciouslyinvestinginnewwaystomanageits‘discards’.
ChartingthecourseforZeroWastewillsteerthecommunityawayfromtraditionallandfilltechnology
andtowardnewopportunitiesthatcreatejobs,conserveresourcesandreducegreenhousegasesthat
wouldotherwisebeemittedfrommanufacturersandlandfillsͲultimatelysavingtaxpayers’money.
AlignmenttotheCityofFortCollinsStrategicPlan
x Promotehealthandwellnesswithinthecommunity(CNL1.6);withobjectivesto
Engagecitizensinwaysthateducateandchangebehaviortowardmoresustainableliving
practices(ENV4.6)
Improvecommunityinvolvement,education,andregionalpartnershipstomakeour
communitysaferandstronger(SAFE5.8)
x Expandorganizationalandcommunityknowledgeaboutdiversityandembracecultural
differences(CNL1.8);withobjectivesto
Improveaccessto,andparticipationin,Cityprogramsandfacilitiesfordisadvantaged,
underrepresented,minority,andculturallydiversepopulations.
x Aligneconomichealthgoalsandstrategyacrossalllevelsoftheorganizationandrefineand
agreeupontheeconomictoolstheCityuses(ECON3.1)
x Improvepoliciesandprogramstoretain,expand,incubateandattractprimaryemployerswhere
consistentwithCitygoals(ECON3.2)
x ImproveeffectivenessthroughcollaborationwitheconomichealthͲorientedregionalpartners
(ECON3.4)
x DemonstrateprogresstowardachievingnetzeroenergywithinthecommunityandtheCity
organizationusingastemsapproach(ENV4.5)
x Engagecitizensinwaystoeducateandchangebehaviortowardmoresustainableliving
practices(ENV4.6)
x DemonstrateprogresstowardachievingzerowastewithinthecommunityandtheCity
organization(ENV4.11)
Challenges
x Difficulttoobtaingoodqualityandcomparabledata
x Difficulttoquantifyandtracksourcereduction
x Marketvolatilityforrecyclables,e.g.,China’sGreenFence
22|Page
x Lowlandfillprices(Nosurchargetosupportdiversionprograms)
x Ongoingneedforeducation,aspeoplemovetoFortCollinsorchangeresidences,etc.
x Complexityofissuesinherentinwastereduction/recyclingsystems
x Relationshipsthatmustbedevelopedandretainedwithprivatesectorandregionalagencies
x NeedforcollaborationtoachieveregionalͲscalematerialsmanagementsystems
x Theneedtoadapttochangingcontentsinrecyclingstream,e.g.,packaging
x Lackoflocalmarketsforrecyclablesanddistance(hightransportationcosts)toendmarkets..
x Lackofastatepolicy/goalforwastereductionandrecycling(Oneofonly12suchstates)
Statecompostregulationsaretoorestrictive;preventsexpansionofthecompostingindustry
DataPoints
x 2014FortCollinsWasteReductionandRecyclingReport
http://www.fcgov.com/common/pdfs/spotlightͲpdf.php?id=1161
x 2015ClimateActionPlan:Framework
http://www.fcgov.com/climateprotection/pdf/draftͲcapͲfeb25.pdf
x 2013ZeroWastegoalresolutionandRoadtoZeroWasteplan
o 75%wastediversionby2020;90%diversionand2.8poundsoftrash/person/dayby
2025;workingtowardzerowasteby2030
x 2015U.S.ConferenceofMayors’HierarchyofMaterialsManagement:
o ExtendedProducerResponsibilityandProductRedesign
o ReduceWaste,Toxicity,Consumption,andPackaging
o Repair,ReuseandDonate
o Recycle
o Compost
o DownCycleandBeneficialReuse
o WasteͲBasedEnergyasdisposal
o LandfillWasteasdisposal
OurVision
Acommunityofminimalwastewherediscardedresourcesaredivertedfromthewastestreamas
efficientlyaspossibleandareputtobeneficialsecondaryuseaslocallyaspossible.
OurRole
TheEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentplaysthefollowingrolesrelativeto”RoadToZeroWaste”
Supportsthedevelopmentofmarketactivitiesbyactingasaconvenerandcatalyst
Educatesaboutwastediversionusingcampaignssuchas“IRecycle”
ProvidestechnicalexpertiseandincentivessuchastheWRAPprogram(WasteReductionand
RecyclingProgram)thatfacilitatesbusinessesinreducingwaste.
Implementsregulations,suchasPayͲAsͲYouͲThrow,thatestablishoperationalrequirementsfor
privatetrashandrecyclingcompanies,andenforcethoseregulations.
23|Page
Ensureactionsarecomplementaryandbaseduponguidingdocuments,suchastheCityPlan
andtheRoadtoZeroWasteplan.
IntegrationoftheTripleBottomLine
Environmental–Reducingwasteconservesnaturalresourcesandenergyusedtoproducegoodsand
packaging;avoidsconstructionofnewlandfills;preventsemissionsofpollutantstogroundwater,
greenhousegasesfromlandfills(methane)andmanufacturingactivities;andpreventsdegradationof
naturalecosystemscausedbymineralandresourceextraction.
Social–Cityeffortsstriveforparityintheprovisionofrecyclingandwastereductionprogramstoall
citizensandworktoensureallresidentshaveequalaccesstorecycling/diversionoptions,regardlessof
wheretheylive.Robustreuseandrecoveryprogramsforgoodsandfoodareparticularlybeneficialto
lowͲincomeresidents.
Economic–Procuringrequiredresourceslocallysupportsahealthyandresilienteconomy.Recycling
andreuseindustriescreatejobsacrosstheincomeandeducationalspectrumandgeneraterevenuefor
thelocalandstateeconomy.Wastediversionpostponesorpreventshavingtomakepublicinvestment
innew,costlylandfills.
GoalCǦ1:Reducetheflowofmaterialssentforlandfilldisposaland
fostergreaterresilienceinmanagingwastematerialstolower
greenhousegasemissionsandachieve75%wastediversionby2020,
90%by2025andzerowasteby2030.
Strategy1:FillgapsintheinfrastructureforprocessinglargeǦvolumetypesofwastetobe
divertedfromlandfills
x Fosterpragmaticinnovationthatreflectslocal/uniquewastestreams,distancetomarkets,and
viabletechnology(Consult)
x PartnerwithColoradoDepartmentofPublicHealthandEnvironment,LarimerCounty,Cityof
Loveland,ColoradoStateUniversity,PoudreSchoolDistrictetc.onregionalplanning(Partner)
x Prioritizedevelopmentofregionalcompostfacility/transferstation(Partner)
x PrioritizedevelopmentofaC&D(construction,deconstructionanddemolition)facility(Consult)
x Exploreopportunitiesforlocaluse/applications/programstorecoverhardͲtoͲrecyclematerials
(e.g.,Styrofoam)(Lead)
x InvestigateandimplementnewsourceͲseparatedorganics(SSO)compostingmeasuresand
potentialwasteͲtoͲcleanͲenergyfacilities(Collaborate)
Strategy2:ApplytheCity'spolicytoolstoachievegreaterlevelsofwastediversion.
x Providesupport/consulting/expertisetodevelopguidelinesandbestmanagementpracticesfor,
andhelpimplementrecyclingat,construction,demolition,anddeconstructionprojects(e.g.,
FoothillsMall)(Consult)
x Prohibitmaterialsfromlandfilldisposal(e.g.,C&D,yardwaste)(Lead)
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x Continuetoworkcloselywithplanningtoupdatebuildingcodesandlandusecodestoallowfor
recyclingandcompostinginnewdevelopment(Partner&Collaborate)
x Supportstateandlocalregulatoryapproachestoremoveobstaclesforcompostingindustryand
improvecompostmarkets(Collaborate)
Metrics
x Increasing community solid waste diversion rate
x AdoptionofprogressivelystrongerordinancesandregulationsinpursuitofZeroWastegoals
x UpdatestolandandbuildingcodesadoptedinpursuitofZeroWastegoals
x Enhancedworkingrelationshipwithdevelopers/contractors
GoalC.2:IncreasethefocusonpreventinghighǦvaluematerialfrom
beingsenttolandfillsthatcouldinsteadsupporttherecyclingand
materialsrecoveryindustry
Strategy1:LeveragetheCity'seconomicdevelopmentcapabilitytocreatemorelocal
commercialrecyclingactivities.
x DevelopMaterialsRecoveryEconomicsClusterthatwillhelpcreatejobsthroughwaste
diversionactivitiesandreinvestinthelocaleconomy(Partner)
x SupportlocalprocessingandreͲmanufacturingopportunitiesthatenableFortCollinstobecome
moreindependent(forinstancebyrelyinglessonlongͲdistancefreight,dependenceonforeign
oil).(Consult)
x SeektoattractotherdesirablebusinessestoFortCollinsthatmakeuseofmaterialsthatare
retained/capturedandthatwanttobeassociatedwithacommunitythatsuccessfullydivertsits
waste(Collaborate)
x EvaluateandpromotenewwasteͲreductionbusinessopportunitiesforunderservedpopulations
(e.g.veterans,individualswithdisabilities)
Strategy2:Balancetheneeds/desiresofthecommunitywiththefiscalrealitiesof
waste/recyclingbusinesses,suchasfluctuatingmarketvaluesforrecyclables.
x Solicitparticipationfromallstakeholdersindevelopinglocalpoliciesandordinances(Lead)
x FollowMayor’shierarchyofwasteManagement:localizehighestandbestuse
Strategy3:Emphasizetheimportanceofa“clean”recyclingstream(uncontaminated)
Metrics
Tons of community recycled or composted materials, including cardboard
Increasenumberofjobcreatedinnewwastereductionandrecyclingservicesandinfrastructure
Productive,openchannelsofcommunicationmaintainedwithstakeholders
Publicforumsheldtosolicitcommunityinput
25|Page
GoalC.3:Expandthecultureofenvironmentalstewardshipthatfirstand
foremostseekstoreducewasteatthesourcetosupporttheadopted
2025goalof2.8poundsoftrashperpersonperday.
Strategy1:ImplementRoadtoZeroWastePlanrecommendations
x Advanceresponsiblepurchasingpolicies(Partner)
x PromoteProductstewardship(Lead)
x ExploreextendedͲproducerͲresponsibilityordinances(Lead)
Strategy2:ApplyandinstituteprinciplesofSustainableMaterialsManagement(SMM)to
achievegreaterefficienciesusingasystemsǦbasedapproach
x Implementeducation/informationcampaignonCultureChange,underscoringtheimportance
ofsourcereductionandLifeCycleAnalysis(e.g.,promotemoveͲin/moveͲoutwastediversion
programsatstudenthousingcomplexes)(Lead)
x Exploreopportunitiestopilot/implementSMMpractices(Lead)
x Developlocalresourcesharingopportunities(e.g.,leafexchange,toollibrary)andsocial
networksthatsubstituteservicesforgoods(circulareconomy)…
x Incorporatemeasurements(fromemergingSMMmethodology)forquantifyingGHGemissions
thatreflecttransportation,manufacturing,etc.
Metrics
Reductioninpoundspercapitaofmunicipalsolidwaste
Widespreadadoptionofresponsiblepurchasingpractices
ReductioninGHGemissionsassociatedwithfulllifecyclefootprintofproductsandfood
GoalC.4:Provideeducationandinformationaboutwastereductionand
recyclingopportunities,empoweringresidentstotakepersonaland
collectiveaction.
Strategy1:Createandenhanceopportunitiesandprogramsforcitizenstodivertwastefrom
landfills.(Collaborate)
x Pursueopportunitiesthatencourageequalopportunityforalternativestolandfilldisposal
x ProviderecyclingdropͲoffservicesforresidents(Lead&Partner)
Strategy2:Fostercultureofenvironmentalstewardship.
x ServeasamodelforothercommunitieswherebyFortCollinscantakeprideinitsidentityasa
wastediversionleaderandinourlocalcultureofresourcestewardship.(Partner)
x UpdatePayͲAsͲYouͲThrowregulations(CommunityRecyclingOrdinance)(Lead)
x ApplysocialscienceresearchtocampaignsimplementingCultureChange(Lead)
x Developandpromoteprogramsthatleadresidentstoreducewasteatthesource
26|Page
Metrics
Cumulative number of individuals with new or improved access to recycling through WRAP and
other programs
IncreasednumberofrecyclingdropͲoffsites
AdoptedCommunityRecyclingOrdinanceupdate,withcommunityinput
27|Page
Ǥ
TheCityofFortCollinsaspirestoprovideworldͲclassservicestothecommunitywhilecultivatinga
worldclassorganizationalcultureforitsemployees.Inordertoachievethisvision,bothinternaland
externalservicesaredataͲdrivenandimplementedaccordingtoorganizationalvalues.TheCitydevelops
resiliencyandsustainabilitythroughorganizationͲwidesystemsandprocessesthatensureconsistent
employeeworkpracticesandalignmentacrossserviceareas.
TheCityhasadoptedelevenmunicipalsustainabilitygoals,severalofwhichfocusonenvironmental
sustainability.AsaPlatinumClimateWisePartner,theCityofFortCollinsiscommittedtoreducing
greenhousegasemissions20%below2005levelsby2020.Theorganizationisequallycommittedto
systematicallyaddressingallaspectsofsustainabilitythroughatriplebottomlinelensforprojects,
policiesandpurchasesbyimplementingnumerousprojectsthataddresseachoftheelevenmunicipal
sustainabilitygoals.
Oursuccessattakingdecisiveactionandimplementinginnovativesolutionsinthefaceofarangeof
socialandeconomicchallenges,andtheuncertaintiesofclimatechange,hascontributedtothevibrant,
livablecitythatisFortCollins.TheCity’sroleinleadingbyexamplewillempowerbusinessesand
residentstotakeanactiveroleinaddressingclimatemitigationandadaptationstrategies.
AlignmentwithCity’sStrategicPlan
x Supportworkforcedevelopment&communityamenitiesinitiativesthatmeettheneedsof
primaryandinnovativeemployers(ECON3.3)
x Improveorganizationalcapabilityandeffectiveness–professionaldevelopment,leadership,
changemanagement,strategicthinking,fiscalliteracyandstaffengagement.(HPG7.1)
x Improveproductivity,efficiency,effectiveness,customerserviceandcitizensatisfactioninall
areasofthemunicipalorganization.(HPG7.9)
x ImplementleadingͲedgeandinnovativepracticesthatdriveperformanceexcellenceandquality
improvementsacrossallServiceAreas.(HPG7.10)
x ReduceGHGemissionsbycreatingabuiltenvironmentfocusedongreenbuildingandmobile
emissionreductions.(ENV4.4)
x Demonstrateprogresstowardsachievingnetszeroenergyandwaste.(ENV4.5)
Challenges
x Settingspecificaccountabilitytargetsforindividualsanddepartmentalgoals
x Planningforunquantifiedrisks,includingwater;increasedfederalandstatewaterregulations;
andincreasedwaterandenergyrates
x Abilityandwillingnesstoengageinsustainabilityeventsandchallenges
x Limitedstaffcapacitytoimplementinternalsustainabilityprojectsandpolicies
x Adjustingbuildingshoursforcoincidentpeakenergyuse
x Sometimescompetingobjectivesofuserneedsandenergyefficiency
x Continuefundingtoimplementefficient,innovativeimprovementstotheCity'sphysicalplant
andoperationalproceduresthatarenototherwisefunded
28|Page
x Standardizingdataquality
x Developingmetricsforqualitativedata
x Evaluatingqualityofdatasources
x Communicatingcomplexconcepts
DataPoints
2013MunicipalSustainabilityAnnualReport
http://www.fcgov.com/sustainability/annualreports/2013Ͳreport.pdf
OurVision
AcommunityͲwideandorganizationalcultureofsustainabilityinwhichtheCityplaysaleadershiprole.
OurRole
TheEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentplaysthefollowingrolesrelativeto“LeadByExample”
x CoordinatestheinterdepartmentalMunicipalSustainabilityTeam
x ProvidestechnicaladviceandsupporttoCitydepartmentaleffortstoadvancethemunicipal
sustainabilitygoalsandcommunityclimateactiongoals
x Tracksandreportsannualprogressonmunicipalsustainabilitygoals
x Providesprogramssuchaschallenges,movies,communitydiscussionsintendedtoeducateand
empowerthecommunitytotakeactiontoadvancesustainability
x Providestechnicalexpertiseintheareasofairquality,wastediversion,andclimatemitigation
andadaptation
x Facilitiestheorganizationindevelopingclimateadaptationplans
x Educatesaboutandadvocatesforsustainabilitybestpractices,internallyandexternally
x SupportstriplebottomlinethinkingandtheCity’sSustainabilityAssessmentprocess
IntegrationoftheTripleBottomLine
Environmental–EnvironmentalstewardshipisoneofthekeyvaluesoftheCityorganization.TheCity’s
ownenvironmentalpolicystates"TheCityofFortCollinsiscommittedtoconductingitsoperationsina
mannerthatisenvironmentallyresponsibleandreflectiveofthecommunity’sstrongcommitmenttothe
environment.TheCitywillstrivetobeacommunityleaderinenvironmentalperformanceinbalancewith
providingexceptionalservicestothecommunity.”TheCitystrivestoreduceitsenvironmentalimpact
throughnumerousenvironmentalsustainabilitygoalsandimplementingEnvironmentalManagement
Systemsforkeyoperations.GooddataqualityfortheCity’smunicipalcarbonaccountingandtimely
reportingofannualGHGemissionsfrommunicipaloperationssetsagoodexampleforinstitutions,
businesses,andindustriesacrossthecommunitytofollow.
SocialͲManyoftheCity’sservices,policies,andprogramsaffectresidentsandbusinessesacrossthe
community,sowemustconsidersocialequityasastandardpractice.Thisisgoodcustomerservice.The
municipalgovernment’slocalfoodgoalsimprovetheavailabilityandaccessibilitytohealthyfoodfor
staffandresidents.
29|Page
EconomicͲTheCityhasaresponsibilitytomanagetaxpayerdollarsefficientlyandcanreducethecost
ofmunicipaloperationstotaxpayersbyusingresources,includingenergy,efficiently.TheCitytracksand
reportsitsownenergyuse,costs,andcarbonemissions,andstrivestoreduceuseandcosts.
Innovativesustainabilityprojectsandfinancingapproachesimplementedbythemunicipalorganization
canpavethewayforincreasedeconomicopportunitiesinthecommunity.Theseincludelocal
distributedrenewableenergyprojectssuchastheCommunitySolarGardenthatsupporttheworkforce
andexpandedcommunityamenities.
GoalD.1:AdvancetheCityorganization’sprogressoncomprehensive
sustainabilityprinciplesandgoals
Strategy1:Design,initiate,andevaluatepilotprojectsandoperationsthroughatriplebottom
lineapproach.(Lead&Collaborate)
x CoordinatereviewofproposalsandawardsoftheCity’sInnovationFund
x HighlightInnovationFundrecipientsandInnovationTeamProjects
x HighlightSustainabilityInnovationthroughtheResidentialEnvironmentalProgramSeriesand
BIZEDPrograms
x SupportMunicipalEnergyEfficiencyFundactivities
Strategy2:CollaborateandpartnerwithotherCitydepartmentstoadvanceprogressonthe
municipalsustainabilitygoals(Lead,Consult,Collaborate)
x LeadandparticipateincrossͲfunctionalteamstocoordinateandencouragemunicipal
sustainability
x Assistdepartmentsinidentifyingandaddressinggapsinsustainabilitypoliciesandpractices
x Collaboratewithdepartmentstosetdepartmentalorpersonalgoalsinalignmentwithmunicipal
sustainabilitygoalsandprovideroutineprogressreports
x Promoteandimplementsustainableprocurementbestpractices
x ImplementandadvancelocalfooduseforCityfunctions
x AssistCitydepartmentsinachievingzerowasteevents
x PublishAnnualMunicipalSustainabilityReportincollaborationwithCitydepartmentsand
publishSustainabilityManagementPlanonafiveyearcycle.
Strategy3:Initiateopportunitiesforstaff,businessesandcontractorstomaintainandobtain
professionalcredentials(i.e.LEED,GreenGlobesetc.)andlearnaboutclimatemitigation
activities.(Lead)
Strategy4:IncreaseaccountabilityforclimateactionandothersustainabilitygoalsatCity
ServiceArealevel.(Collaborate)
x PromoteintegrationofCitysustainabilitygoalsintoServiceAreagoalsandplans
x Encourageadoptionofperformancegoalsthatsupportprogressonmunicipalgoals
Metrics
PercentdecreaseinmunicipalGreenhouseGas(GHG)Emissionsfrom2005baseline
Progresstowardsthequantifiedsustainabilitygoals
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Reviewandupdateadministrativepoliciestoaddressclimatechangefactors
AmendmentstoLandͲUse,BuildingcodesandAdministrativePolicies
GoalD.2:Educateandinspirethecommunity,Cityleadership,andstaff
aboutenvironmentalsustainability
Strategy1:Provideexpertconsultationtoassistdepartmentsonspecificareassuchasdata
management,zerowastepractices,airquality,alternativefuelsandfleets,etc.(Consult)
Strategy2:UtilizecommunityǦbasedsocialmarketingandotherbehavioraltechniquesthat
promotepositivechange,reducebarriers,andfocusonthebenefitsofmakingchanges(Lead
andPartner)
x CentralizeinformationaboutCity–offeredprogramsandresourcesforallcommunitymembers,
withaspecialemphasisonreachinglowincomecitizens
x Promoteresourceconservation
Strategy3:InterpretcomplexdatatomakeitunderstandableandrelevanttoanonǦtechnical
audience(LeadandPartner)
Metrics
x Annualnumberofpeoplereceivingsustainabilityeducation
GoalD.3:AdvanceconsiderationofthetriplebottomlineinCityǦwide
decisionǦmaking
Strategy1:Implementandencourageotherstobuilddepartmentalcapacitytoconduct
SustainabilityAssessmentsofprojectsthatconsiderenvironmental,economicandsocial
implicationandwaystomitigatepotentialnegativeimpacts(LeadandConsult)
x Providetrainings
x PromotedevelopmentofexpandedonͲlineresources
x Elevatetheprinciplesofenvironmentaljusticeandequity
Strategy2:EvaluateandupdatetheSustainabilityAssessmentprocess(Lead)
x Collectandreportuserfeedbackfrompilottestyear(2015)
x Incorporatechangesandensurecontinuousimprovement
Metrics
x Surveyresultsonuser(e.g.,projectmanager)feedbackontheSustainabilityAssessment
processandtools
x FeedbackfromCityleadership(includingCouncilmembers)onwhethertheyaresatisfiedthat
theSustainabilityAssessmentprocessandtoolsaccomplishesthegoalofintegrating
sustainabilityconsiderationsintoCitydecisionͲmaking.
31|Page
x UpdatedSustainabilityAssessmentframeworkdocumentandforms
x UpdatedSustainabilityAssessmentCityNetwebsite
GoalD.4:EnsurehighǦqualitydataisusedindecisionǦmaking
Strategy1:Standardizedataqualityassuranceandqualitycontrolprocedures
(LeadandCollaborate)
Strategy2:CentralizeandstandardizepeerǦreviewprocessforpublications
(LeadandCollaborate)
x DevelopandimplementacentralizeddocumentreviewprocessforESD
Strategy3:Providecentralizedcarbonaccountingformunicipaloperations(Lead)
Metrics
x CentralizeddocumentreviewprocessforESD
x AnnuallyupdateddatadocumentationtotheGHGEmissionsManagementSystem(GEMS)database
forestimatesofcarbonreductionpolicies,projects,andprograms
32|Page
Ǥ
Manyissues,includingenvironmentalissuessuchasclimatechangeimpacts,airpollution,andwaste
management,donotrespectgeopoliticalboundaries.Therefore,inpursuitofenvironmentalprotection,
itisveryimportanttocollaborateregionallyandwithotherlevelsofgovernment.Thisthemefocuses
onstrategicallyleveragingpartnershipsbeyondourcommunityboundariestoadvancecommunity
sustainabilitygoalsandobjectives.
AlignmentwithCity’sStrategicPlan
x Increasethecommunity’sresiliencyandpreparednessforchangesinclimate,weatherand
resourceavailability(ENV4.7)
x DemonstrateprogresstowardachievingnetzeroenergywithinthecommunityandtheCity
organization(ENV4.5)
x Proactivelyinfluencepolicyatotherlevelsofgovernmentregulation(HPG7.11)
Challenges
x Redundancywithotheragencies
x Staffcapacitylimitsabilitytoparticipatewithregionalgroups
x Publicperception/potentialconcernaboutCitytaxpayerfundsbeingusedtohelpothers
x Resolvingdiverseobjectives;delicatepolitics
x Conflictofgoaltimelines
x Divergentregionalgoalsregardinggrowthandtransportationsolutions
x Technologyavailability,accessibility,andaffordabilitytoregionalcitizens
x PublicconfusionregardingESDrole
OurVision
Aregionthatpartnerstoaddressenvironmentalissuesthatextendbeyondmunicipalboundaries
OurRole
TheEnvironmentalServicesDepartmentplaysthefollowingrolesrelativeto"CollaborateandAct
Regionally”by:
x Networkingtosharebestpractices
x Participatinginregionalnetworks
x Facilitatingregionalconversations
x Evaluatingandadvocatingforstatelegislation
x ParticipatinginruleͲmakings
x Providingeducationalopportunities
33|Page
x LeveragingresourceswithregionalpartnersthatalsohelpsFortCollinscitizens
x Partneringonregionalinfrastructureprojects
IntegrationoftheTripleBottomLine
Environment–Environmentalprotectionsareimplementedatmanylevelsofgovernment.Localaction
oftencomplementsstateornationregulation.Findingalignmentandpromotingenvironmental
protectionwithregionalorotherpartnerscanleveragegreateractionathigherlevelsofgovernment.
Social–Manysocialissuessuchaspovertyandhomelessnessdonotrespectpoliticalboundaries.
ActionstakeninFortCollinstopromoteahealthyenvironmentmustbedonewhileguardingagainst
potentialnegativesocialimpactssuchassignificantlyincreasingthecostoflivinginFortCollinsand
causingahigherpercentoftheworkforcetoliveoutsidetheCitywithconsequentincreasesin
commutingcostsandotherimpacts.
Economy—Regionalsolutionsthatimproveenvironmentalprotectionmayalsoincreaseavailabilityof
localjobssuchascreationoflocalprocessing/recyclingcapabilityforsegmentsofthewastestream.
GoalE.1:Actwithotherstopromoteandimplementdeepcarbon
reductionmeasures
Strategy1:PartnerwithPlatteRiverPowerAuthorityanditsownercommunitiestofind
commongroundthatadvancescarbonreduction.(Collaborate)
Strategy2:Participateinregional,stateandnationalnetworksworkingtoadvancecarbon
reduction,including(CollaborateandPartner)
x DriveElectricNorthernColorado
x ColoradoClimateNetwork
x ColoradoCleanEnergyCluster
x ColoradoAssociationforRecycling
x UrbanSustainabilityDirectorsNetwork
x ColoradoGreenBuildingGuild
x USGreenBuildingCouncil
x SolidWasteAssociationofNorthAmerica
Strategy3:Evaluateandpromotejoiningnationalandglobalcoalitionsthatsupportdeep
carbonreductions(Collaborate)
Strategy5:Seekrelationshipstodevelopandleveragefinancialsolutions.(Collaborate)
Metrics
x Attendanceandparticipationinregionalandothernetworksandorganizations
34|Page
GoalE.2:Increaseawarenessofandengagementinclimateadaptation
Strategy1:Workwithkeyregionalpartnersandotherstoplanforimpactsofclimatechange
andextremeweatherevents,includingpartnershipwithLarimerCountyandWestern
AdaptationAlliance(Collaborate)
Strategy2:WorkwithLarimerCounty,otherlocalgovernments,CSU,stateandfederal
government,andhealthagenciestoraisecommunityawarenessabouthowtoprepareforand
increaseresiliencytoclimatechangeimpacts,includingpartnershipswiththeClimate
Hub.(Collaborate)
Metrics
x Metricstoevaluateprogressinclimateadaptationwillbedeveloped
GoalE.3:Advancecommunityenvironmentalobjectivesthrough
participationinlegislativeandregulatoryprocesses,whileconsidering
thetriplebottomline
Strategy1:Participateinnationalandstatelegislativeprocessesandrulemakingson
environmentalissuessuchasairquality,energy,oilandgas,andsolidwastemanagement
issues.(LeadandCollaborate)
x Stayawareofkeyproceedingandprovideinput
x Partnerwithotherstofindandpromotecommonobjectives
Metrics
x Numberpositiveoutcomesandorpositivepartnerships
GoalE.4:Improveenvironmentalqualitythroughcollaborationwith
regionalpartnersandorganizations
Strategy1:PartnerwithColoradoDepartmentofPublicHealthandEnvironment,Larimer
County,CityofLoveland,ColoradoStateUniversity,FrontRangeCommunityCollege,Poudre
SchoolDistrict,etc.onregionalplanningtoaddressenvironmentalissues(Collaborate&
Partner)
x InitiateopportunitiestocrosstrainregionalpartnersonFortCollins’successfulairquality
programs
35|Page
Strategy2:Partnerwithnationalandregionalhousing,health,andeducationalorganizations
topromoteindoorenvironmentalhealth(Collaborate)
Strategy3:Provideenvironmentaltechnicalexpertisetosupportregionalefforts(Leadand
Consult)
x ProvideprojectmanagementforBrownfieldsCoalitionAssessmentgrant
x Conductgroundwaterandenvironmentalsamplingrelatedtooilandgasactivity
Metrics
x ESDengagementinkeyissuesthathavearisen
x Influence/Successfuldevelopmentofprogramsandinfrastructureoncoreissues
x Providedreplicablemodelsthatwereembracedbyothers
x Compliancewithregionalplans/regionalaspectsofCityplans
36|Page
Tosuccessfullypromote,protectandenhanceahealthyandsustainableenvironment,the
EnvironmentalServicesDepartmentprovidesleadershipinpolicyandprogramdevelopmentand
implementation,andreporting,incertainareasofenvironmentalprotection(airquality,waste
reduction,andclimateplanning),andworkscollaborativelyCitydepartments,agencies,stakeholderand
partnersinotherareas(waterandlandprotection,energy,andtransportation).Table1providesa
matrixthatoutlinestherolesofESDandothersrelativetothegoalslaidoutinthisplan.
UponadoptionoftheESDStrategicPlanbyCityCouncil,staffwillusethePlaninthefollowingways:
x CoordinatewiththeEconomicHealthOfficeandtheSocialSustainabilityDepartmenttocreate
asynthesizedsummaryofthethreeSustainabilityServicesdepartmentalstrategicplans
x UseasguidancetoprovideinputtotheperiodicupdateoftheCity’sStrategicPlan
x Prioritizestrategiesandresourceneeds,anduseasguidancetodevelopbudgetrequests
x Conveneadepartmentalimplementationteamtoprioritizestrategies,refinemetrics,and
developaroutineprogressreportingstructurethatleveragesexistingreportingprocesses
x ReviewandupdatethePlanperiodically.
37|Page
Thispageleftintentionallyblank.
38|Page
Table1.ESDStrategicPlanImplementationMatrix(R=Responsible;C=Consulted;I=Informed)
GOALS ESD EHO SSD Util Trans CDNS Others External
CLIMATECOMMITMENT
AͲ1Rapidlyadvancegreenbuiltenvironment Lead CCRCR(C)Fin.,
CPIO,Parks
I
AͲ2Engagethecommunityandpersuadeandempowertoact Collab CCRCR(I) PARKS R
AͲ3IncreaseCityorgpreparednessandresiliencytoclimatechangeimpacts Lead RRRRR R C
AͲ4Supportinnovationtoaccelerateimplementationof2015CAPFramework Collab RCRRR R R
AͲ5SupportCityeffortsto“preservetheecosystemuponwhichwedepend” CollabͲCRCR(R)NA R
AͲ6Continueresponsibleclimateplanningandprogressreporting Lead CCRRC C C
BEAIRAWARE
BͲ1SupportandleverageairqualitycoͲbenefitsofclimateactioninitiatives Lead IIICI Ͳ I
BͲ2Improveindoorandoutdoorairqualitytoenhancethecommunity’shealth Lead ICIRR Ͳ R
BͲ3PromoteairqualityprotectionwithintheCityorganization Lead RRRRR Ͳ I
BͲ4Focusonlocalactionstoreduceairpollutantsofconcerninclozone&radon LeadͲI Ͳ CCͲ R
ROADTOZEROWASTE
CͲ1Reducetheflowofmaterialssentforlandfilldisposalandfostergreater
resilienceinmanagingwastetolowergreenhousegasemissions
Lead/Collab IICII Ͳ R–Lar.Cnty
CͲ2IncreasethefocusonpreventinghighͲvaluematerialfrombeingsentto
landfills….
Lead CICIC Ͳ R–Lar.Cnty
CͲ3Expandtheculture…thatfirst&foremostseekstoreducewasteatthesource Lead ICRIC Ͳ RͲCSUCAFR
CͲ4Educate/informandenhanceequalopportunitiesforparticipatinginͲ waste
managementtoempowersresidents'personalactions
Lead CCRIC ͲͲ
LEADBYEXAMPLE
DͲ1AdvanceCityorg.progressoncomprehensivesustainabilityprinciples/goals Collab/Part. ICCCC Ͳ C
DͲ2Educate&inspirethecommunity,Cityleadership,staffaboutenvironmental
sustainability
Lead/Collab IICCCͲ C
DͲ3AdvanceconsiderationofthetriplebottomlineinCityͲwidedecisionͲmaking Lead/Collab CCCCC Ͳ C
DͲ4EnsurehighͲqualitydataisusedindecisionͲmaking Lead/Collab IICCI Ͳ C
COLLABORATEANDACTREGIONALLY
EͲ1Actwithotherstoimplementdeepcarbonreductionmeasures Collaborate RRRRR R R
EͲ2Increaseawarenessandengagementinclimateadaptation Lead ICII/CC IRͲ Lar.Cnty
EͲ3Advancecommunityenvironmentalobjectivesthroughparticipationin
legislativeandregulatoryprocesses,whileconsideringthetriplebottomline
Lead/Collab CCRRR Ͳ R
EͲ4Improveenvironmentalqualitythroughcollaborationwithregionalpartners Lead/Collab RRRRR R R
39|Page
40|Page
Acknowledgements
MayorandCityCouncil
WadeTroxell,Mayor
GerryHorak,MayorProTem,District6
BobOverbeck,District1
KristinStephens,District2
GinoCampana,District3
RayMartinez,District4
RossCunniff,District5
Staff
DarinAtteberry,CityManager
JeffMihelich,DeputyCityManager
JackieKozakThiel,ChiefSustainabilityOfficer
LucindaSmith,EnvironmentalServicesDirector
LindsayEx,EnvironmentalProgramManager
SusieGordon,Sr.EnvironmentalPlanner,WasteReductionandRecycling
RosemarieRusso,Sr.EnvironmentalPlanner,SustainabilityCoordinator
CarolineMitchell,EnvironmentalPlanner,WasteReductionandRecycling
BonniePierce,EnvironmentalPlanner–DataManagementandSustainabilityAssessment
MaryPatAardrup,EnvironmentalPlanner,HealthyHomesProgramManager
KatyBigner,EnvironmentalPlanner,FortZEDCoordinator
HonoreDepew,EnvironmentalPlanner,WasteReductionandRecycling
PeterGibbons,EnvironmentalPlanner,AirQuality
TonyRaeker,EnvironmentalPlanner,GreenBuiltEnvironmentProgram
SelinaLujan,HealthyHomesProgramAssistant
AlexisHmielak,AdministrativeAssistantII
ContactEnvironmentalServicesDepartment
215N.MasonStreet
P.O.Box580
FortCollins,CO80522Ͳ0580
970Ͳ221Ͳ6600
lsmith@fcgov.com
ATTACHMENT 2
SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT SUMMARY
DATE: September 8, 2015
SUBJECT: Sustainability Assessment (SA) Summary for ESD Strategic Plan
Key issues identified:
Social
Many ESD programs improve public health through improving the health of the environment, and
support the draft Social Sustainability Strategic Plan theme of “Community Wellness”
Economy
A clean environment supports a good quality of life, which supports business retention, expansion
and attraction.
CAP and Zero Waste goals may be accompanied by near-term cost increases
Plan supports the Economic Health Strategic Plan including “Grow Our Own’ and “The Climate
Economy” themes
Suggested mitigation actions:
Extend equal access of ESD programs to all segments of the population
Support efforts to find new tools, mechanisms and sources of capital to implement Climate Action
Plan
Involve stakeholders in developing Climate Action Plan implementation details to minimize the
impact of increased investment costs and avoid disproportionately burdening any segment of the
population.
When feasible, ESD should consider external impacts of proposed actions to identify, and avoid or
mitigate potential unintended consequences.
Economic , 1.0
Social , 1.3
Environmental
2.5
Rating
Average, 1.6
-4.0
-3.0
-2.0
-1.0
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
Sustainability Rating
Rating without mitigation Rating with mitigation
Rating Legend
3 Very positive
2 Moderately positive
1 Slightly positive
0 Not relevant or neutral
-1 Slightly negative
-2 Moderately negative,
impact likely
-3 Very negative, impact
expected
ATTACHMENT 3
*The Fort Collins SAT was developed by modifying the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) Analysis Tool developed by Eugene, Oregon, July 2009. 1
City of Fort Collins SUSTAINABILITY ASSESSMENT TOOL (SAT)
(November 2014)
Creating a sustainable community
Plan Fort Collins is an expression of the community’s resolve to act sustainably: to systemically, creatively, and thoughtfully utilize environmental,
human, and economic resources to meet our present needs and those of future generations without compromising the ecosystems upon which we
depend.
How to use the tool
The Sustainability Assessment Tool (SAT) is designed to inform a deeper understanding of how policy and program choices affect the social
equity, environmental health and economic health of the community. The City of Fort Collins has developed a Sustainability Assessment
Framework that describes the purpose, objectives, and guidelines to assist City Program/Project Managers to determine:
• The process for cross-department collaboration in using the SAT
• Timing for applying a SAT
• When to apply a SAT
• How to document the results of the SAT and present at City Council Work Sessions and Regular Council Meetings
Further detailed guidance is available at: http://citynet.fcgov.com/sustainability/sustainabilityassessments.php
The SAT does not dictate a particular course of action; rather, the analysis provides policy makers and staff with a greater awareness of some
of the trade-offs, benefits and consequences associated with a proposal, leading to more mindful decision-making.
Brief description of proposal
Please provide a brief description of your proposal – 100 words or less
The Environmental Services Department is developing a draft Strategic Plan to guide future program, policy and funding decisions.
Staff lead(s):
Lucinda Smith, ESD Director
(970)224-6085
2
Social Equity
Described: Placing priority upon protecting, respecting, and fulfilling the full range of universal human rights, including those pertaining to civil,
political, social, economic, and cultural concerns. Providing adequate access to employment, food, housing, clothing, recreational opportunities, a
safe and healthy environment and social services. Eliminating systemic barriers to equitable treatment and inclusion, and accommodating the
differences among people. Emphasizing justice, impartiality, and equal opportunity for all.
Goal/Outcome: It is our priority to support an equitable and adequate social system that ensures access to employment, food, housing, clothing,
education, recreational opportunities, a safe and healthy environment and social services. Additionally, we support equal access to services and
seek to avoid negative impact for all people regardless of age, economic status, ability, immigration or citizenship status, race/ethnicity, gender,
relationship status, religion, or sexual orientation. Equal opportunities for all people are sought. A community in which basic human rights are
addressed, basic human needs are met, and all people have access to tools and resources to develop their capacity. This tool will help identify how
the proposal affects community members and if there is a difference in how the decisions affect one or more social groups. Areas of consideration in
creating a vibrant socially equitable Fort Collins are: basic needs, inclusion, community safety, culture, neighborhoods, and advancing social equity.
Analysis Prompts
• The prompts below are examples of the issues that need to be
addressed. They are not a checklist. Not all prompts and
issues will be relevant for any one project. Issues not covered
by these prompts may be very pertinent to a proposal - please
include them in the analysis.
Is this proposal affected by any current policy, procedure or
action plan?
Has advice been sought from organizations that have a high
level of expertise, or may be significantly affected by this
proposal?
Proposal Description
1. Meeting Basic Human Needs
• How does the proposal impact access to food,
shelter, employment, health care, educational
and recreational opportunities, a safe and
healthy living environment or social services?
• Does this proposal affect the physical or mental
health of individuals, or the status of public health in
our community?
• How does this proposal contribute to helping people
achieve and maintain an adequate standard of living,
including housing, or food affordability, employment
opportunities, healthy families, or other resiliency
factors?
Analysis/Discussion
Employment wise – ESD actions support locally based energy efficiency
jobs
ESD programs can improve housing conditions and health
Climate resiliency efforts may keep Fort Collins from being not as badly
affected by catastrophic events
Climate adaptation helps us prepare for catastrophic events
Provision of recycling and trash services (sanitation) is an important human
need
Supports our citizens’ access to a healthy natural environment including
good air quality and healthy ecosystems
Green building – some may cost more upfront, but green homes typically
have less utility and maintenance costs (total cost of ownership)
Upfront costs may be detrimental, especially to low income
Healthy Homes program supports healthy families, improved public health
A clean and uncluttered environment (waste) – helps mental health
3
Applying green built principles to housing construction helps enhance
quality of life for people, including those who live in affordable housing.
It can be reassuring to our citizens (and therefore contributes to mental
health) to know local government is working on important environmental
issues of concern
Providing ways for people to take action can help relieve a sense of anxiety
associated with feeling powerless over issues such as climate change.
Improving air quality can support environmental justice
2. Addressing Inequities and being Inclusive
• Are there any inequities to specific population
subsets in this proposal? If so, how will they be
addressed?
• Does this proposal meet the standards of the
Americans with Disabilities Act?
• How does this proposal support the participation,
growth and healthy development of our youth?
Does it include Developmental Assets?
• If the proposal affects a vulnerable section of our
community (i.e.
youth, persons with disabilities, etc.)
Currently being evaluated: community recycling ordinance is looking at
ways for multifamily residents and businesses to have more opportunities to
recycle (not just making it available to single-family home residents)
Plan calls for ensuring programs and materials are accessible to all
segments of the community, including translating key materials into Spanish.
Lower income households will have more trouble getting access to capital to
upgrade their homes
Healthy Homes program actively reaches out to seniors, those with
respiratory illnesses, and underserved populations
Increased use of active modes of transportation may bring health benefits
Plan calls for continued efforts to offer appropriate programs, materials, and
engagement efforts (generationally and otherwise)
Supports preparing for extreme events – and includes making your home as
efficient and resilient as possible.
Plan supports active modes of transportation that can provide alternatives to
driving to segments of the population including youth and seniors
3. Ensuring Community Safety
• How does this proposal address the specific safety
and personal security needs of groups within the
community, including women, people with
disabilities, seniors, minorities, religious groups,
children, immigrants, workers and others?
Supports improved air quality and visibility, which improve health and safety
(i.e. dust and tailpipe emissions can impact visibility)
If there are more trucks on the road for increased levels of waste diversion
services (e.g., adding trucks for yard waste/composting), there may be
increased risk of accidents
Reducing waste at the source could minimize trucks on road
Increased alternative transportation could mean greater safety and comfort
Increased bicycling could result in drivers becoming more vigilant and driving
slower.
More bikes on road could increase chances of more bike accidents.
Electric vehicle are so quiet there is increased chance for parking lot
accidents if bikes/pedestrians do not hear them.
Air quality and climate plans work towards community resilience and disaster
preparedness, and improve long term health for residence
4. Culture
• Is this proposal culturally appropriate and how
does it affirm or deny the cultures of diverse
4
communities?
• How does this proposal create opportunities for
artistic and
cultural expression?
Repurposed materials can be used for creative reuse and to create art
Plan strives for being culturally sensitive to the population and their needs,
and includes working with local organizations
Supports the creative and innovative culture in Fort Collins
Efforts can build on Fort Collins’ agricultural history
CAP will require cultural shift at scale – could be negative response
Plan recognizes the importance of our cultural diversity and calls for being
more dynamic with our messaging and tools to be sure to reach more people
The green built environment can also be artistic – shaped by the people and
shapes the buildings (i.e. biomimicry)
5. Addressing the Needs of Neighborhoods
• How does this proposal impact specific Fort Collins
neighborhoods?
• How are community members, stakeholders and
interested parties provided with opportunities for
meaningful participation in the decision making
process of this proposal?
• How does this proposal enhance neighborhoods and
stakeholders’ sense of commitment and stewardship
to our community?
Climate Action Plan supports neighborhood scale actions
Some approaches such as developing neighborhood composting allow
community scale projects that aren’t possible at individual level.
An individual that takes care of his/her home helps increase value of home
and neighborhood, and contributes to a sense of community
As your neighborhood is more attractive, you take more pride in your
community
We’re cultivating healthier practices – i.e. lawnmower rebate – that eliminate
noise and pollution in the neighborhood
The City’s role in supporting green building principles increases connectivity
at neighborhood scale.
The Plan builds and expands avenues to participate in environmental action
By asking people to take initiative, for instance using water-conserving
gardening practices, they set the example for their neighbors
Provides opportunities for early adaptors – this can lead to a snowball effect
6. Building Capacity to Advance Social Equity
• What plans have been made to communicate
about and share the activities and impacts of this
proposal within the City organization and/or the
community?
• How does this proposal strengthen collaboration and
cooperation between the City organization and
community
members?
ESD is planning to increase outreach under this plan and also CAP to
multiple segments of the community
Education and outreach programs for Healthy Homes are impacting the
public – over 2,000 people a year reached – which shows the community
what we’re doing to support their health and environment
The plan recognizes local and regional partnerships – will facilitate increased
collaboration and encourage efforts to be made by other agencies
A different way to structure the built environment and society will require
collaboration/cooperation
ESD Plan work may require extra capacity from the organization to support
these programs
5
Key issues:
Many ESD programs have the potential to improve public health through improving the health of the environment.
Plan supports the draft Social Sustainability Strategic Plan theme of “Community Wellness”
Plan may result in increased job creation and/or increased near-terms costs associated with Climate Action plan implementation
Potential mitigation strategies:
Extend equal access of ESD programs to all segments of the population
Involve key stakeholders in developing implementation details, especially Climate Action Plan implementation details, to ensure that any
increased investment costs do not have a net negative impact to the economy or a disproportionate burden on any segment of the population.
Overall, the effect of this proposal on social equity would be:
Please reach a consensus or take a group average on the rating,
enter an “x” in one of the following boxes and indicate the overall
rating.
Rating represents group consensus
Rating represents group average X
+3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3
Very
positive
Moderately
positive
Slightly
positive
Not
relevant
or
neutral
Slightly
negative
Moderately
negative,
impact
likely
Very
negative,
impact
expected
+1.3
Environmental Health
6
Described: Healthy, resilient ecosystems, clean air, water, and land. Decreased pollution and waste, lower carbon emissions that contribute to
climate change, lower fossil fuel use, decreased or no toxic product use. Prevent pollution, reduce use, promote reuse, and recycle natural
resources.
Goal/Outcome: Protect, preserve, and restore the natural environment to ensure long-term maintenance of ecosystem functions necessary for
support of future generations of all species. Avoid or eliminate adverse environmental impacts of all activities, continually review all activities to identify
and implement strategies to prevent pollution; reduce energy consumption and increase energy efficiency; conserve water; reduce consumption and
waste of natural resources; reuse, recycle and purchase recycled content products; reduce reliance on non-renewable resources.
Analysis Prompts
• The prompts below are examples of issues that need to be
addressed. They are not a checklist. Not all prompts and
issues will be relevant for any one project. Issues not
covered by these prompts may be very pertinent to a
proposal – please include them in the analysis.
• Is this proposal affected by any current policy,
procedure or action plan? Has advice been sought from
organizations that have a high level of expertise, or may be
significantly affected by this proposal?
1. Environmental Impact
• Does this proposal affect ecosystem functions
or processes related to land, water, air, or plant
or animal communities?
• Will this proposal generate data or knowledge related
to the use of resources?
• Will this proposal promote or support education in
prevention of pollution, and effective practices for
reducing, reusing, and recycling of natural
resources?
• Does this proposal require or promote the continuous
improvement of the environmental performance of the
City organization or community?
• Will this proposal affect the visual/landscape or aesthetic
elements of the community?
Analysis/Discussion
Plan works toward continual improvement in local indoor and outdoor air
quality
Works with regional partners to improve air quality, reduce carbon
emission, reduce waste (and thus extend landfill life), and protect water
quality and the natural environment
Provides data to inform the community and track progress on goals
including air pollution levels, waste reduction, and carbon accounting
Actively supports (has key role) community education on key
environmental issues
Strives to improve visual quality in Fort Collins; citizen surveys continue to
show that good visibility and clear mountain vistas are important to the
public
Increased land use intensity and/or increased rare earth minerals
extraction needed for some renewables
2. Climate Change
• Does this proposal directly generate or require the
generation of greenhouse gases (such as through
electricity consumption or transportation)?
• How does this proposal align with the carbon reduction
Plan works to actively reduce community and municipal greenhouse gas
emissions.
Increased vehicle traffic associated with increased waste diversion services
(i.e., collecting yard trimmings for composting) services may emit more
greenhouse gas emissions from tailpipes while reducing emissions from
waste.
7
goals for
2020 goal adopted by the City Council?
• Will this proposal, or ongoing operations result in an
increase or decrease in greenhouse gas emissions?
• How does this proposal affect the community’s efforts to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions or otherwise mitigate adverse
climate change activities?
Proposal directly aligns with 2020 carbon reduction goal for community and
municipal organization and has a lead role in several aspects
Plan reduces greenhouse gas emissions through supporting energy, waste
diversion/recycling/composting and transportation programs and education
at the municipal government level, as well as promoting a green built
environment, vehicle idle reduction campaigns, clean lawn and garden
equipment rebates, Lose-A-Watt campaign and other energy efficiency
programs, renewable energy, and reduced driving.
3. Protect, Preserve, Restore
• Does this proposal result in the development or
modification of land resources or ecosystem functions?
• Does this proposal align itself with policies and procedures
related to the preservation or restoration of natural habitat,
greenways, protected wetlands, migratory pathways, or
the urban growth boundary
• How does this proposal serve to protect, preserve, or
restore important ecological functions or processes?
Promotes a green built environment at the building, site and neighborhood
level, including support for infill and refill development
Supports other City departments in efforts to improve ecosystem function
such as Brownfields restoration, improved soil and water quality,
stormwater management practices
4. Pollution Prevention
• Does this proposal generate, or cause to be
generated, waste products that can contaminate the
environment?
• Does this proposal require or promote pollution
prevention through choice of materials, chemicals,
operational practices and/or engineering controls?
• Does this proposal require or promote prevention
of pollution from toxic substances or other
pollutants regulated by the state or federal
government?
• Will this proposal create significant amounts of waste or
pollution?
Supports increased renewable energy which reduces fossil fuel emissions
but can have negative heavy metal and other extraction-related
environmental impacts
Plan actively promotes pollution prevention and waste reduction, to reach
Council’s goal for lowering overall amount of waste generated per capita
(2.4 pounds/person/day by 2030)
Plan supports evaluating life cycle analysis to consider longer term and
indirect impacts
Fort Collins is out of compliance with federal ground level ozone health
standard; plan works to complement state efforts and to reduce ground
level ozone concentrations
5. Rethink, Replace, Reduce, Reuse, Recirculate/Recycle
• Does this proposal prioritize the rethinking of the materials
or goods needed reduction of resource or materials use,
reuse of current natural resources or materials or energy
products, or result in byproducts that are recyclable or can
be re-circulated?
8
resources and environmental impact of producing
and transporting proposed goods and materials?
• Will the proposal cause adverse environmental effects
somewhere other than the place where the action will take
place?
Plan actively supports progress on community greenhouse gas goals,
though risk exists that overly rapid cost escalation near-term could drive
citizen or business to live or work outside Fort Collins, resulting in ‘leakage’
of carbon emission and economic impacts.
Environmental Health Summary
Key issues:
Plan actively promotes improved environmental health through reducing indoor and outdoor air pollution, reducing waste, advancing a more
compact, efficient green built environment, and actively engaging the public.
Potential mitigation strategies:
When feasible, ESD should consider external impacts of proposed actions to identify, and avoid or mitigate potential unintended consequences.
Overall, the effect of this proposal on environmental health would
be:
Please reach a consensus or take a group average on the rating, enter an “x” in
one of the following boxes and indicate the overall rating.
Rating represents group consensus
Rating represents group average X
+3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3
Very
positive
Moderately
positive
Slightly
positive
Not
relevant
or neutral
Slightly
negative
Moderately
negative,
impact
likely
Very
negative,
impact
expected
9
Economic Health
Described: Support of healthy local economy with new jobs, businesses, and economic opportunities; focus on development of a diverse economy,
enhanced sustainable practices for existing businesses, green and clean technology jobs, creation or retention of family waged jobs.
Goal/Outcome: A stable, diverse and equitable economy; support of business development opportunities.
Analysis Prompts
• The prompts below are examples of the issues that need to be addressed.
They are not a checklist. Not all prompts and issues will be relevant for
any one project. Issues not covered by these prompts may be very
pertinent to a proposal – please include them in the analysis
• Is this proposal affected by any current policy, procedure or action
plan? Has advice been sought from organizations that have a high level of
expertise, or may be significantly affected by this proposal?
1. Infrastructure and Government
• How will this proposal benefit the local economy?
• If this proposal is an investment in infrastructure is it
designed and will it be managed to optimize the use of
resources including operating in a fossil fuel constrained
society?
• Can the proposal be funded partially or fully by grants,
user fees or charges, staged development, or partnering
with another agency?
• How will the proposal impact business growth or
operations (ability to complete desired project or remain in
operation), such as access to needed permits, infrastructure
and capital?
Analysis/Discussion
Many sustainability measures are local – uses more labor locally
A clean community is a natural draw for new businesses and residents
Businesses may want to locate in Fort Collins because of its reputation
as a leader in environmental stewardship and sustainability, and
because of our high-quality workforce (people who have chosen to live
in Fort Collins because of its environmental quality.
Upfront costs for elements of CAP implementation drive the need to
explore multiple financing approaches.
Potential business opportunities exist in the areas of materials reuse;
Plan considers creating a recycling innovation cluster
Increased costs associated with large capital projects (waste stream
infrastructure, renewables) may negatively impact small and medium
existing businesses
It is not expected that City government will shoulder bulk of cost of CAP
implementation; Plan supports seeking alternative financing solutions.;
Some costs can be funded by grants
2. Employment and Training
• What are the impacts of this proposal on job creation
within Larimer County?
• Are apprenticeships, volunteer or intern opportunities
available?
• How will this proposal enhance the skills of the local
workforce?
CAP and zero waste goals provide new employment opportunities
Healthy Homes has many volunteers – other programs will emulate by
creating programs that train people who then provide volunteer
services to the community
Need more local contractors to upgrade homes for energy efficiency
and alternative energy use – plan supports developing new/more
contractor training programs
Licenses and ordinances make it hard to work in this town as a
contractor
High demand for construction workers now – if we improve
10
opportunities and train more people – can address that demand and
may lower contractor prices.
Supports local food industry by promoting local food use within City
government
Ultimate achievement of CAP goals will mean transitioning away from
coal-generated electricity may impact Rawhide employees/families and
other coal facility employees.
New job opportunities may occur in the energy sector for electricity
generation (solar, wind, etc.)
Achievement of CAP goals will create new opportunities for innovation
in the private sector which can lead to primary job growth.
Resource recovery and recycling industry can create specific jobs for
disabled and for residents in lower education and lower income strata
3. Diversified and Innovative Economy
• How does this proposal support innovative or
entrepreneurial activity?
• Will “clean technology” or “green” jobs be created in this
proposal?
• How will the proposal impact start-up or existing
businesses or
development projects?
Supports green jobs and green technical research and business
development
New costs/ordinances may make it harder to develop in Fort Collins
because of learning curve, upfront costs, training, mind set
Upfront financial investment may be difficult for small and medium
businesses to shoulder without innovative financing mechanisms
available
Supports diversifying our energy sources - the introduction of new
technology (such as electric vehicles) – might help with home heating
and business’ heating
Strategy around source reduction of waste, which encourages people
to share or reuse items, buying smarter and buying less, may have
short term negative impact to local retailers (but could lead to
innovative exchange or barter systems)
Looking for more shared opportunities (parking etc.) can have positive
effect
Can recognize the roles of organizations and partner with them to
support local resilience ( i.e. Transition Fort Collins)
Reduced vehicle driving will lower tax revenue for street maintenance
(could lead to less wear and tear on streets). Mitigation may consider
ways to increase revenue to address gaps in street maintenance
4. Support or Develop Sustainable Businesses
• What percentage of this proposal budget relies on local
services or products? Identify purchases from Larimer
County and the State of Colorado.
• Will this proposal enhance the tools available to
businesses to incorporate more sustainable practices in
operations and products?
Supports and promotes ClimateWise program and local environmental
stewardship business leaders
Green building initiatives use local contractors and recognize
excellence through urban design awards; this leverages all the local
leaders and their innovation
Supports Bicycle friendly businesses
Collaborate with local businesses
11
• Are there opportunities to profile sustainable and socially
responsible leadership of local businesses or educate
businesses on triple bottom line practices?
Several programs celebrate and reward local businesses including
ClimateWise, urban design awards, Waste Reduction and Recycling
program (WRAP)
5. Relevance to Local Economic Development Strategy
Supports the climate economy that looks at both helping businesses
being prepared for climate change and taking advantage of things that
come forward from the CAP
Supports “Grow Your Own” elements in Economic Health Strategic
Plan
Support what’s happening regionally, such as Larimer County
Resiliency Project
Support for regional economic clusters; energy, water, food, possible
materials re-use
Embraces increased skill base and increasing the spectrum for
employment opportunities
Regional bike plan – connecting trails between cities - can have
economic impact
Active involvement in regional waste planning
Supports role for CSU and other colleges’ role as an important asset for
Fort Collins
Risk of "green economy bust” as the market saturates and consumers
stop buying green products (i.e. explosion of local CSAs); may result in
worker layoffs. Must acknowledge and plan for the potential for
bubbles – maxing out an industry – which affects local contractors,
pricing
Seeks to minimize (regulatory/market) barriers to alternative energy
12
Economic Prosperity Summary
Key issues:
Plan supports many aspects of economic health through options of creating more jobs (materials reuse, energy efficiency).
Plan supports the Economic Health Strategic plan including “Grow our Own’ and “The Climate Economy” themes.
A clean environment supports a good quality of life, which supports business retention, expansion and attraction.
CAP and Zero Waste goals may be accompanied by cost increases.
Potential mitigation strategies:
Involve stakeholders in developing implementation details, especially Climate Action Plan implementation details, to minimize the impact of
increased investment costs and avoid disproportionate burden on any segment of the population.
Support efforts to find new tools, mechanisms and sources of capital to implement Climate Action Plan.
Seek to integrate upfront costs associated with green building into the mortgage.
Overall, the effect of this proposal on economic prosperity will be:
Please reach a consensus or take a group average on the rating, enter an “x” in
one of the following boxes and indicate the overall rating.
Rating represents group consensus
Rating represents group average X
+3 +2 +1 0 -1 -2 -3
Very
positive
Moderately
positive
Slightly
positive
Not
relevant
or neutral
Slightly
negative
Moderately
negative,
impact
likely
Very
negative,
impact
expected
+0.8
11
Environmental Services Department
Strategic Plan
City Council Work Session 9-29-15
ATTACHMENT 4
2
Direction Sought
1. Does City Council support the five themes in the plan?
2. Are there any themes, goals or strategies missing that Council
feels the plan should include?
3. Are there any goals or strategies in which the City should not
be involved?
2
Focus of Sustainability Services
Social, Environmental, Economic
3
• Resolve to act sustainably
• Focus on integration among economic,
environmental,
and social
• Emphasize interrelationships
• Recognition of interdependent
implications of policies, decisions, and
outcomes
• Recognition of benefits and tradeoffs
4
Sustainability
Services Area
Economic
Health
Economic
Health
Environmental
Services
Environmental
Services
Social
Sustainability
Social
Sustainability
Business
Support
Innovation &
Clusters
Urban
Renewal
Talent
Development
Air Quality
Waste Reduction
/ Recycling
Sustainability
Engagement
Climate Mitigation
and Adaptation
Affordable
Housing
Human
Services
Diversity
City
Organization
Green Built
Environment
Green Built
Environment
Competitive
Process
Sustainability Services Area
A Commitment
to Environmental Sustainability
5
1992 - Framework for Environmental Action
1994 - Air Quality Policy
1995 - Pay-As-You-Throw
1999 - Waste Diversion Goals
1999 - Climate Action Goals
2006 - Municipal Sustainability Plan
2007 - Roadmap for Green Building
Objectives of ESD Strategic Plan
6
• Increase interconnectedness of ESD
programs
• Deeper integration of Triple Bottom
Line
• Consider gaps in City environmental
protection
• Identify & plan for emerging trends
• Develop a 10+ year planning horizon
ESD Existing Programs
Core Role
Policy development, program
implementation, reporting,
partnerships for:
• Air Quality
• Waste Reduction & Recycling
• Climate Protection
• Green Built Environment
• Sustainability Education &
Engagement
7
Environmental Services
Strategic Plan Themes
8
A. Climate Commitment
B. Be Air Aware
C. Road to Zero Waste
D. Lead by Example
E. Collaborate and Act Regionally
Environmental Services
Strategic Plan Components for Each Theme
9
• Alignment to City Strategic Plan
• Challenges
• Data Points
• Vision
• Role
• Integration w/ Triple Bottom Line
• Goals
o Strategies
o Metrics
Climate Commitment
10
City’s Strategic Plan Alignment:
Support sustainable infill and redevelopment to meet
climate action strategies
Our Vision:
A healthy, safe, sustainable, and carbon-neutral
community that innovates solutions to climate change.
11
GOALS:
A-1. Rapidly advance the green built
environment
A-2. Engage the community and
persuade and empower to act
A-3. Increase City organization’s
preparedness for climate change
Climate Commitment
12
GOALS:
A-4. Support innovation to accelerate
implementation of the 2015 CAP
Framework
A-5. Support City efforts to preserve
the ecosystems upon which we
depend
A-6. Continue responsible climate
planning and progress reporting
Climate Commitment
Be Air Aware
13
City’s Strategic Plan Alignment:
Promote health and wellness within the community.
Our Vision:
A community that is vigilant about protecting the
quality of the air we breathe and continually strives to
improve it.
14
GOALS:
B-1. Focus on local actions that will
reduce air pollutants of concern
including ozone and radon
B-2. Continually improve indoor and outdoor
air quality to enhance the
community’s health
B-3. Promote air quality protection
within the City organization
B-4. Support and leverage air quality
co-benefits of climate action initiatives
Redtail Ponds
REDTAIL PONDS
Be Air Aware
Road to Zero Waste
15
City’s Strategic Plan Alignment:
Improve policies and programs to retain, expand,
incubate and attract primary employers where consistent
with City goals
Our Vision:
A community of minimal waste where discarded
resources are diverted from the waste stream as
efficiently as possible and put to beneficial secondary use
as locally as possible.
16
GOALS:
C-1. Reduce the flow of materials sent
for landfill disposal
C-2. Increase the focus on preventing
high-value material from being
sent to landfills
C-3 …Seek to reduce waste at the source
C-4. Provide education/information about
waste reduction and recycling
opportunities, empowering residents
to take personal and collective action
Road to Zero Waste
Lead By Example
17
City’s Strategic Plan Alignment:
Implement leading-edge and innovative practices that
drive performance excellence and quality
improvements across all Services Areas
Our Vision:
A community-wide and organizational culture of
sustainability in which the City plays a leadership role.
18
GOALS:
D-1. Advance the City organization’s
progress on comprehensive
sustainability principles and goals
D-2. Educate & inspire the community,
City leadership and staff about
environmental sustainability
D-3. Advance consideration of the triple
bottom line in City decision-making
D-4. Ensure high-quality data is used in
decision-making
Lead By Example
Collaborate and Act Regionally
19
City’s Strategic Plan Alignment:
Proactively influence policy at other levels of
government regulation
Our Vision:
A region that partners to address environmental issues
that extend beyond municipal boundaries
20
GOALS:
E-1. Act with others to implement deep carbon
reduction measures
E-2. Increase awareness of and engagement
in climate adaptation
E-3. Advance community environmental
objectives through participation in
legislative & regulatory processes, while
considering the triple bottom line
E-4. Improve environmental quality through
collaboration with regional partners and
organizations
Collaborate and Act Regionally
Public Outreach To Date
• Super Board meeting
• Memo to all board liaisons
• Air Quality Advisory Board
• Economic Advisory Commission
• Natural Resources Board
• Transportation Board
• Fort Collins Chamber’s LLAC
21
Feedback
• Why isn’t water included?
• Include quantitative goals
• Don’t let GHG reduction
overshadow air quality
• Include balanced discussion of
challenges
22
23
Direction Sought
1. Does City Council support the five themes in the plan?
2. Are there any themes, goals or strategies missing that Council
feels the plan should include?
3. Are there any goals or strategies in which the City should not
be involved?
23
Plan has the lead role at City government to advance reduce, reuse,
recycle for the community and achieve Council’s adopted zero waste goals
Supports materials repurposing
Provides support for new approaches to Sustainable Materials
Management; more emphasis on extended producer responsibility, product
redesign (e.g., reduce toxicity and packaging), repairing durable goods,
beneficial reuse, and waste-based energy instead of landfill disposal.
6. Emphasize Local
• Does this proposal emphasize use of local
materials, vendors, and or services to reduce
Plan actively supports local food, local clean energy innovation, local
resource recovery systems (which all contribute to increase in local jobs),
and local businesses as leaders in environmental stewardship
Social Equity Summary
Green buildings must strive to support occupant comfort and efficiency, not
just environmental efficiency; if a building doesn’t serve needs of occupants,
it isn’t green