The Office of Sustainability and Resilience

Illustration of neighborhood with solar panels, a farm with an 'Eat Local' sign, and a cyclist, with city skyline on background and U.S. Green Building Council logo

Charlotte will lead, as a global city, by continuously improving, protecting, and preserving the environment, its community, and economy, while ensuring equity and resilience- for today's and future generations.

SEAP

The Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP+) explains how the City of Charlotte aims to reduce municipal and community greenhouse gas emissions.

Road to a Cleaner Future

The aspirational community-wide and municipal greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals for the City of Charlotte.

Green Crown Program

A citywide voluntary and free program that shines a spotlight on eating and drinking establishments implementing sustainable practices.

Energy Saver North Carolina

Through HOMES (Homeowners Managing Efficiency Savings) and HEAR (Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates), eligible residents can receive financial assistance for energy efficiency and electrification upgrades.

Our Mission

The Charlotte City Council's vision states, "Charlotte will become a global leader in environmental sustainability, balancing economic growth with preserving our natural resources."

Our Path

The Sustainable and Resilient Charlotte by 2050 City Council Resolution guides this work This resolution sets ambitious municipal and community-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals for Charlotte. Specifically, it strives to have city fleet and facilities be fueled 100% by zero-carbon sources by 2030. It also set a community-wide goal for Charlotte to become a low-carbon city by 2050 by reducing GHG emissions to less than two tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per person annually. The Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP) is the body of work that directs this impactful effort.

Our Values

The City of Charlotte recognizes that protecting our natural resources, promoting conservation and improving the environment is fundamentally important to quality of life and essential to maintaining a vibrant economy. Charlotte will become a global leader in environmental sustainability by:

  • Becoming a model environmental community in how it manages energy, air, water and waste.
  • Leading by example by practicing environmental stewardship in city operations and facilities as guided through the Strategic Energy Action Plan.
  • Seeking and supporting collaborative and regional solutions to environmental problems.
  • Analyzing data and applying technologies to reach our environmental goals.

Our Call to Action

To accomplish our mission, we need everyone's help. Review the list below to see ways to reduce carbon emissions in everyday life.

Waste

  • Compost
  • Recycle: Learn what can and cannot be recycled
  • Purchase local produce and support Green Crown Program establishments
  • Reduce single-use plastic by investing in reusable bottles, mugs, straws and bags and choosing items with limited packaging
  • Leave lawn clippings and leaves in place
  • Schedule your sprinklers to complement weather — in other words, don't run your sprinklers when it's raining!
  • Install low-flow water fixtures

Energy Use

  • Turn off electronics and unplug chargers when not in use
  • Set your thermostat to 78 in the summer and 70 in the winter and/or to a schedule
  • Use cold water for laundry and do laundry in full loads
  • Caulk/seal openings and gaps in your home and ductwork
  • Replace showerheads with water-conserving versions
  • Ensure adequate insulation levels in attics, walls, floors and hot water piping
  • Run the dishwasher only when it's full
  • Conserve water

Transportation

  • Use public transit — learn more on the CATS website
  • Use people power when you can — walk, bike, scooter
  • Convert to an electric vehicle and carpool

Transcript A Carbon-free Future for the City of Charlotte

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