Getting Started

• Approaches for Getting Started
• Using the Web Site

Approaches for Getting Started

EPA’s Local Climate and Energy Program helps local governments develop climate change mitigation programs that advance multiple community priorities. When starting to develop climate change and clean energy policies and programs, local governments can consider the following approaches:

1. Employ cost-effective strategies to maximize program benefits:
   • Pursue energy efficiency programs first, then complement efficiency efforts with climate change mitigation strategies.
   • Explore federal funding opportunities
   • Establish partnerships to leverage funding and resources
2. Create climate change mitigation programs with multiple benefits to:
   • Leverage funding from and achieve results for other programs
   • Strengthen a comprehensive sustainability approach at the local level
   • Help elevate climate change mitigation as a priority during decision-making
   • Generate support from leadership
3. Lead by Example (LBE) by implementing climate and clean energy programs in government operations to:
   • Build capacity at the local government level
   • Save money that can be reinvested into local government operations
   • Build government credibility for outreach with other sectors
   • Demonstrate leadership

Local governments can apply these considerations during the process of developing and implementing a climate change mitigation strategy.

Using the Web Site

Throughout this Web site, local governments can access and learn about proven, cost-effective best practices, peer exchange opportunities, and analytical tools. To begin planning and implementing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within their jurisdictions, local governments can consider developing climate and clean energy programs and policies in these areas:

• Energy Efficiency
  • Energy Efficiency in Government Operations and Facilities
  • Energy Efficiency in Non-Governmental Buildings
  • Residential Energy Efficiency
  • Developing Energy Efficiency Programs with Utilities and Other Sponsors
• Heat Islands
• Land Use
• Renewable Energy
• Transportation
• Waste Management
• Water / Wastewater

Climate change and clean energy policies and programs can reduce GHG emissions, lower energy costs, improve air quality and public health, and help achieve economic development goals. To learn more about the benefits and risks that can be associated with climate change and climate mitigation efforts, visit:

• Air Quality
• Economics
• Health
• Impacts and Adaptation
• Workforce Development

The paths to reducing GHG emissions are varied, rarely linear, and almost always build upon the motivation of a champion or group of champions within the community (e.g., mayor, city council member, staff experts). Local governments typically undertake the following activities when developing and implementing a comprehensive climate change mitigation strategy or specific climate mitigation programs and policies related to sustainability and energy conservation. To learn more about these activities, visit:

• Developing an Action Plan
• Developing a GHG Inventory
• Identifying and Evaluating Policy and Program Options
• Designing and Implementing Programs
• Establishing Funding Sources and Financing Vehicles
• Leading by Example in Government Operations
• Engaging Stakeholders
• Determining Results

Top of page