BOARD AGENDA MEMORANDUM
SUBJECT:
Title
Climate Change Mitigation - Update on Progress Towards Carbon Neutrality by 2020.
End
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Receive and discuss information on Valley Water's progress towards carbon neutrality by 2020.
Body
SUMMARY:
This is an update on Valley Water's efforts to achieve carbon neutrality by 2020. Using the methodology presented to the Board in 2013, staff estimates that Valley Water will generate 15,500 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions (CO2e) in the year 2020. For that same period, it is estimated that Valley Water will offset 19,535 metric tons of CO2e, signifying that Valley Water is on track to be carbon neutral in year 2020.
This agenda item describes Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions generated by Valley Water activities, reduction efforts, and progress towards achieving carbon neutrality since the latest report on January 22, 2019. Presented below is the background on the policy guidance as well as a summary of the methodology used for calculating the GHG emissions as well as our efforts towards carbon neutrality.
Background
As the primary water resources agency for Santa Clara County, Valley Water manages an integrated water resources system that includes the supply of clean safe water, natural flood protection, and stewardship of streams on behalf of Santa Clara County's 1.9 million residents.
Valley Water's ability to provide these services is challenged by the potential of warmer temperatures, changing precipitation and runoff patterns, reduced snow pack, and rising sea levels. Managing climate change-related uncertainties, vulnerabilities, and risks to local water resource management are critical to fulfilling the Valley Water's mission.
Board Ends Policy 4.3.1 directs the Valley Water's Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to achieve carbon neutrality by 2020. Over the past few years, this policy has been guiding Valley Water actions to reduce emission...
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