The Global Context for Local Emissions Targets

Through our discussions with local planners and climate activists we've come to recognize that many are beginning to wrestle with the process of setting targets for emissions reductions. 

To assist in this process we've laid out an approach to setting targets that starts with the big picture and works back to the scale of an individual city. 

View the Slide Show:
Transition Targets for the Dynamic City: The Global Context for Local Emissions Targets

Central to our approach is the idea of 'emissions equity' where overall reductions are shared equitably between various parties; between rich and poor nations & between federal and local governments.

At the global level, we propose a 4 tier system where nations with the highest GDP and emissions per capita are required to make the largest cuts.

At the local level, we argue that 60% of a city's total reductions can come from municipal and regional programs. In most cases the number is typically closer to 50/50, however we believe that the implications of peak oil (in addition to climate change) demand a greater emphasis on local adaptation and capacity building.

As always, we welcome your thoughts and feedback.

Bryn Davidson
June 8, 2007