BOTHELL, Wash. — In a landmark decision, the Bothell City Council has adopted the city’s first-ever Climate Action Plan, setting a new course for environmental sustainability.

This plan, approved during the council’s Tuesday meeting, represents a significant step in Bothell’s commitment to combating climate change and aligns with Washington’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

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The Climate Action Plan, developed over the course of a year with input from community members, technical experts, and regional partners, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and prepare the city for the impacts of climate change. It outlines practical actions for both the city and its residents to lower emissions across key sectors such as buildings and energy, transportation and land use, and waste management.

The plan also emphasizes making energy efficiency, renewable energy, and sustainable transportation accessible and affordable for all.

Bothell’s emissions primarily stem from transportation, accounting for 58%, and buildings and energy use, contributing 36%. The plan sets ambitious targets to reduce these emissions by 50% by 2030, 75% by 2040, and 95% by 2050, compared to 2019 levels. These targets are based on the best available science and are consistent with neighboring jurisdictions.

The development of the Climate Action Plan was a collaborative, data-driven process that included an Advisory Committee of community members. The committee played a crucial role in shaping the plan’s strategies and outreach approach. The planning process involved analyzing local greenhouse gas emissions, gathering community input through surveys and workshops, and providing multiple opportunities for public review and feedback.

By adopting this plan, Bothell states it is taking decisive action to ensure a cleaner, healthier future. The city encourages residents to explore the full Climate Action Plan or the three-page Executive Summary to learn more about the initiatives and how they can contribute to a sustainable future.