Corvallis officials report progress on greenhouse gas reduction and sustainability goals
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Corvallis City Council has taken significant steps towards sustainability, as highlighted in the recent meeting on October 21, 2024. Scott Divvod, the city’s sustainability coordinator, presented an update on the city’s progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing environmental practices.
Divvod, who has transitioned to the city manager's office, emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability into the core functions of city operations. He reported that Corvallis is committed to meeting the greenhouse gas emission reduction targets set by the Oregon legislature. In 2022, the city’s municipal operations emitted approximately 17,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent, marking a nearly 15.5% reduction from pre-pandemic levels in 2018.
The city’s sustainability efforts are organized around five key goal areas, with annual work plans developed to align with the Climate Action Plan. Notably, the city has made strides in reducing emissions from energy use, with electricity accounting for 28% of organizational emissions. Divvod highlighted a long-term agreement to purchase solar electricity, which is expected to cover 80% of the city’s electricity needs in the coming years.
Additionally, the city is transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric, with six electric vehicles currently in use and plans for further expansion. The use of 99% renewable diesel for all diesel equipment has also contributed to a 25% reduction in emissions from the city’s fleet over the past two years.
Water conservation remains a priority, with the city achieving a 19% reduction in water use over the last two years, aiming for an annual reduction of 3%. Divvod noted that while standard flushing practices are necessary for water quality, they can account for a significant portion of water use.
The council's commitment to sustainability reflects a broader responsibility to the community, ensuring that environmental stewardship is at the forefront of municipal operations. As Corvallis continues to implement these initiatives, the city is poised to make further progress in its sustainability goals, benefiting both the environment and the community at large.
Divvod, who has transitioned to the city manager's office, emphasized the importance of integrating sustainability into the core functions of city operations. He reported that Corvallis is committed to meeting the greenhouse gas emission reduction targets set by the Oregon legislature. In 2022, the city’s municipal operations emitted approximately 17,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent, marking a nearly 15.5% reduction from pre-pandemic levels in 2018.
The city’s sustainability efforts are organized around five key goal areas, with annual work plans developed to align with the Climate Action Plan. Notably, the city has made strides in reducing emissions from energy use, with electricity accounting for 28% of organizational emissions. Divvod highlighted a long-term agreement to purchase solar electricity, which is expected to cover 80% of the city’s electricity needs in the coming years.
Additionally, the city is transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric, with six electric vehicles currently in use and plans for further expansion. The use of 99% renewable diesel for all diesel equipment has also contributed to a 25% reduction in emissions from the city’s fleet over the past two years.
Water conservation remains a priority, with the city achieving a 19% reduction in water use over the last two years, aiming for an annual reduction of 3%. Divvod noted that while standard flushing practices are necessary for water quality, they can account for a significant portion of water use.
The council's commitment to sustainability reflects a broader responsibility to the community, ensuring that environmental stewardship is at the forefront of municipal operations. As Corvallis continues to implement these initiatives, the city is poised to make further progress in its sustainability goals, benefiting both the environment and the community at large.
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