Climate and Energy Action Plan (CEAP)

Strategy PHSW-2. Promote a sustainable local economy that minimizes emissions and vulnerability. Becoming more sustainable and preparing for the effects of climate change will require more than government action; the private sector also plays a central role. The City can serve as a thought leader, facilitator, and central coordinator to spur climate action by a wide variety of independent businesses. PRIORITY ACTIONS PHSW-2-1. Engage leading employers in a dialogue on climate action, for example, by organizing and facilitating roundtables. This action involves bringing local employers together with City staff and independent experts to discuss how climate change will affect their businesses, how to minimize those risks, and how to effectively incorporate climate and sus - tainability concerns into their businesses.PHSW-2-2. Support organizations, such as SOU, in evaluating risks to local food sources under climate change. As discussed in Strategy CW-2, local food pro - duction minimizes greenhouse gas emissions associated with food transport, supports the local economy, and brings other sustainability benefits. As part of the City’s work to support and expand local agriculture, it can consider supporting the work of other organizations to evaluate how local food sources may be stressed or affected by climate change, and how best to navigate the challenges to ensure that local farms remain viable and productive. This work would include researching new crops, technologies, and innovative approaches, and working with farmers to adapt to climate change. OTHER ACTIONS • Work with businesses to assess their climate change vulnerability and plan for the future.Mi AdCC Ad 94ASHLAND CLIMATE & ENERGY ACTION PLANPUBLIC HEAL TH, SAFETY & WELL-BEING 94