4 things to know about Dallas climate change action plan 

Dallas Council Member Carolyn King Arnold climbed onto a large electric mower to see how it works. She was shown the mower by Parks and Recreation department crew leader Justin Murillo (center) during an unveiling of new all-battery-powered and automated maintenance equipment at Kiest Park in Dallas, November 4, 2024. The department is committed to reducing carbon emissions, improving environmental quality. They have been using the equipment exclusively at the 48-acre Kiest Softball Complex since earlier this year.(Tom Fox / Staff Photographer)The city of Dallas has a 30-year plan to address environmental issues and develop strategies to mitigate the challenges associated with climate change.Climate change risks in Dallas include extreme heat, drought, flooding and public health threats. By 2050, Dallas is likely to suffer 30 to 60 more days with temperatures over 100, according to the Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability.The Dallas Comprehensive Environmental and Climate Action Plan guides the city’s environmental and climate action efforts to address current and future challenges. The City Council unanimously approved the CECAP in 2020.Certain groups are more vulnerable than others to the health impacts of climate change due to social and economic factors like income, education, health care access and housing, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Low-income households are more likely to live in poor-quality homes and be less able to afford repairs and improvements after weather-related damage.Children and the elderly are at greater risk of illness during heat waves because they are less able to regulate their body temperatures and are more sensitive to air quality excursions. Extreme heat can cause or aggravate negative health impacts, including respiratory and cardiovascular disease, mental health challenges and loss of life.CECAP outlines eight primary goals and 97 actions across areas like buildings, energy, transportation, waste, water, ecosystems, food and air quality. According to Carlos Evans, director of the Office of Environmental Quality and Sustainability, the plan is implemented through collaboration across 16 different city departments, with regular monitoring and updates to adapt to changing conditions.Here are four things to know about Dallas CECAP.What are CECAP’s eight goals?Official buildings are energy-efficient and climate-resilient. Increase the energy efficiency of existing buildings or facilities, ensure that new buildings are constructed sustainably and are carbon neutral and increase climate resilience for new and existing buildings through structural and operational improvements.Renewable, reliable, and affordable energy. Maintain a high degree of reliability during extreme weather events. Encourage investment in and greater use of renewable energy. Ensure affordable access to renewable electricity.Access to sustainable and affordable transportation options. Shift the surface transportati