Washington’s Big, Bold Investment in Local Climate Action

Increasingly severe and disparate impacts of climate change have propelled multiple states to take legislative actions. Successful climate adaptation and mitigation require coordinated efforts by agencies at all levels of governance. Actions at the local level are particularly important because cities and counties are at the frontline of implementing solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building resilience.

Washington State’s climate law (House Bill 1181, Laws 2023) fosters long-term planning for climate change at the local level. This presentation focuses on the state’s role in supporting cities’ and counties’ efforts to create a climate element in their comprehensive plans, in accordance with the law. Discover the role of Washington’s growth management framework and the evolving nature of requirements and incentives to promote local climate action. Understand the state’s inclusive approach toward developing planning guidance for local jurisdictions and learn about ongoing partnerships with federal and state agencies to develop more comprehensive resources. Leave with an overview of planning grant programs that focus on diverse and equitable participation and a snapshot of the climate law’s early implementation.