The Office of Sustainability and Resilience

Charlotte will lead, as a global city, by continuously improving, protecting, and preserving the environment, its community, and economy, while ensuring equity and resilience- for today's and future generations.

Our Mission

The Charlotte City Council's vision states, "Charlotte will become a global leader in environmental sustainability, balancing economic growth with preserving our natural resources."

Our Path

The Sustainable and Resilient Charlotte by 2050 City Council Resolution guides this work This resolution sets ambitious municipal and community-wide greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction goals for Charlotte. Specifically, it strives to have city fleet and facilities be fueled 100% by zero-carbon sources by 2030. It also set a community-wide goal for Charlotte to become a low-carbon city by 2050 by reducing GHG emissions to less than two tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per person annually. The Strategic Energy Action Plan (SEAP) is the body of work that directs this impactful effort.

Our Values

The City of Charlotte recognizes that protecting our natural resources, promoting conservation and improving the environment is fundamentally important to quality of life and essential to maintaining a vibrant economy. Charlotte will become a global leader in environmental sustainability by:

• Becoming a model environmental community in how it manages energy, air, water and waste.
• Leading by example by practicing environmental stewardship in city operations and facilities as guided through the Strategic Energy Action Plan.
• Seeking and supporting collaborative and regional solutions to environmental problems.
• Analyzing data and applying technologies to reach our environmental goals.

Our Call to Action

To accomplish our mission, we need everyone's help. Review the list below to see ways to reduce carbon emissions in everyday life.

Waste/Water

• Compost
• Recycle
• Purchase local produce
• Use reusable bags (not only at grocery store)
• Reduce single-use plastic use:
  • Carry your own reusable silver ware
  • use Tupperware instead of single-use plastic baggies
  • Use a reusable water bottle and coffee mug
  • Refuse straws
• Avoid printing paper, or when needed print front and back
• Support local eating and drinking establishments who are implementing sustainability practices (green crown)
• Conserve water: take shorter showers, turn off the water when brushing your teeth, use a rain barrel for your garden

Transportation

• Use public transit
• Walk, bike, scooter
• Carpool or Vanpool
• Consider an electric vehicle for your next car purchase

Energy Use

• Turn off computer screens when not in use at the office
• Turn off lights at home when you leave a room
• Use LED bulbs
• Unplug appliances that aren't in use