The City of San Diego will seek major reductions in water and energy usage by the year 2035 under a new climate change action plan unveiled by Mayor Kevin Faulconer on Tuesday.
The draft Climate Action Plan strives to strike a harmonious balance between environmental protection and economic growth, according to the mayor. In doing so, “San Diego can support clean technology, renewable energy and economic growth," he said.
"I've brought together environmental and business groups to update this plan and move San Diego forward,” Faulconer added.
The plan calls for reducing per capita water consumption by 9 gallons per day, cutting greenhouse gas emissions in half, and deriving all electricity from renewable sources over the next two decades. But instead of forcing homeowners and businesses to retrofit their properties, the new proposal will require certain disclosures during property transfers in order to incentivize voluntary upgrades.
In addition, the plan calls for ordinances mandating installation of weather-based sprinkler controls, rooftop solar conduits, and other apparatuses for new construction that facilitate environmental efficiency. Other elements include reduction of energy consumption at municipal facilities, cuts in methane emissions from landfills, and mass transit advocacy.
The latest proposal is an alternative to a previous plan proposed by Council Member Todd Gloria. He praised the latest initiative Tuesday, calling it a demonstration of San Diego's progressive leadership on climate change.
The proposal will be presented to the city council for approval after public hearings.
Read more about the mayor’s climate action plan here.