ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball today released the draft report for HoCo Climate Forward: Climate Action and Resiliency Plan (Climate Forward.) The new version of the report builds on the Preliminary Report published in December 2022 and includes details on the plan's strategies, actions, and recommendations for implementation. These transformative actions address the impacts of climate change, make the county a model for energy independence, and enhance resilience to future environmental challenges, with a particular focus on underserved communities.
Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges facing our community. HoCo Climate Forward is a bold and practical plan to tackle climate change head-on. These actions will be crucial to protecting our environment, enhancing our exceptional quality of life in Howard County, prioritizing energy independence, and ensuring a better future for generations to come.
HoCo Climate Forward is the culmination of nearly two years of extensive research and collaboration with nearly three dozen internal and external stakeholders and experts. The report includes extensive data and analysis of the County's greenhouse gas emissions and vulnerability to climate impacts. This action-focused plan will serve as a science-based and practical work plan for every department and level of Howard County government.
“This plan outlines a transformative vision for a more resilient Howard County,” said Joshua Feldmark, Director of the Office of Community Sustainability. “It is a testament to the hard work and collaboration of all County departments and represents a truly comprehensive effort to combat climate change.”
The plan outlines a pathway to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045 by increasing the use of renewable energy and becoming more energy independent, improving carbon storage capacity of soils, forests, and other landscapes, reducing electricity and fossil fuel use, and minimizing the need for waste disposal. As the most comprehensive climate action plan the County has ever had, HoCo Climate Forward also has a strong focus on strengthening community resilience to extreme weather events, such as flooding, and achieving greater equity and environmental justice.
The public comment period for HoCo Climate Forward is now open. Residents are encouraged to review the draft final report and provide feedback by April 27th. Comments should be emailed to [email protected].