Des Moines adopted a Climate Action and Adaptation Plan in 2024 committing the city to net-zero community greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with interim 28% reduction by 2030 and 100% renewable city operations.
Resolution adopting the DSM Climate Action Plan sets enforceable city operations targets and aspirational community-wide goals. Strategies include MidAmerican Energy renewable purchases, building electrification incentives, fleet EV transition, expanded transit and bike infrastructure, urban tree canopy growth to 40%, and equity-centered investment in low-income neighborhoods. The Office of Sustainability tracks annual progress and reports to City Council. Building energy benchmarking is voluntary but trending toward mandatory for large commercial properties.
Plan targets bind city operations only; violations of future ordinances under the plan would carry chapter-specific civil penalties.
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines applies sustainable procurement preferences for city departments, favoring Energy Star, recycled-content paper, EV and hybrid fleet vehicles, and ...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines addresses urban heat islands through tree planting, cool roof incentives in new commercial construction, and equity-focused canopy expansion in lo...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines targets equitable urban canopy expansion, prioritizing low-canopy neighborhoods such as Capitol East and parts of the south side, with the Climate...
See how Des Moines's climate emergency mobilization rules stack up against other locations.
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