Date of Graduation

Spring 5-21-2021

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Environmental Management (MSEM)

Abstract

With two-thirds of the population living in cities by 2050 and projected climate change impacts, urban cities can facilitate the transition to more sustainable and resilient cities. I conducted a comparative analysis for three cities in California to evaluate their priorities in their Climate Action Plans. I used the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a framework for comparing their progress. According to the 2019 Sustainable Development Goals Index, San Francisco was the city that performed the best by including climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies. Their understanding of climate change impacts allowed them to prioritize their resources to build a resilient city for its residents. Secondly, Los Angeles was well on its way to achieving these goals with their adaptation of the sustainable development goals in their climate action plan. Drafting their climate action plan around the Sustainable Development Goals highlighted the need for each initiative and its benefit. While Fresno had the idea of implementing sustainable policies in its climate action plan, it was amongst the worst performing cities nationwide. Much of the efforts highlighted in the climate action plan were not being implemented which resulted in low performance scores for the cities. Also, issues with equity and environmental justice impede the ability to adapt to climate change. Taking into consideration the climate action plans and the frameworks for sustainability, I recommend increasing tree coverage, promoting safety food programs, using recycled water to increase water supply, and incorporating the Water-Energy-Food Nexus.

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