City to update Climate Action Plan, establishing path toward climate neutrality by 2045

The City of Hayward is currently updating its Climate Action Plan (CAP), a plan to meet emission reduction goals and maximize Hayward’s environmental and social sustainability. Originally adopted by the City Council in 2009, then updated and incorporated in the City’s General Plan in 2014, this second CAP update will set the City on a path to reach climate neutrality by 2045.

The current CAP addresses meeting the City’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goal of 20 percent below 2005 levels by 2020, which Hayward achieved ahead of schedule in 2018. Last year, the Hayward City Council adopted a new goal of reducing emissions by 55 percent below 2005 levels by 2030. The updated CAP will identify the policies and programs necessary to achieve this ambitious target.  

Hayward’s CAP focuses on addressing sectors of emissions that the City can influence, including building energy, transportation, solid waste, water and wastewater, carbon sequestration (the capture and storage of carbon dioxide), and municipal emissions (like those generated by City buildings and operations). The Plan will outline strategies, policies, and programs that will reduce GHG emissions from these sectors, leading to a healthier, more resilient Hayward.

A successful CAP improves the quality of life for all residents by creating co-benefits, including lower energy costs, reduced air pollution, local economic development, and increased community resilience. Currently, historically marginalized communities are being hit first and worst by the climate crisis. In response, the City of Hayward is centering racial equity in the climate planning process and asking for community input along the way.

For more information and to learn about future opportunities to provide input on the Climate Action Plan Update, visit https://haywardhousingandclimateupdate.com/climate-action-plan/ or email environment@hayward-ca.gov.