Eagle County has reported a notable 11% decrease in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for 2024, compared to the 2014 baseline year.This reduction is particularly significant as it represents the first substantial decline outside of the temporary drop experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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vaildaily.comeaglecounty.usThe 2024 Energy Inventory Report, commissioned by Eagle County and compiled by the Clean Energy Economy for the Region (CLEER), indicates that total GHG emissions amounted to 1.195 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), reflecting a 16% decrease from the previous year.
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vaildaily.comeaglecounty.usThe primary driver behind this reduction is the substantial increase in renewable energy sources in the energy mix provided by Holy Cross Energy, which has transitioned from 20% renewable energy in 2014 to over 80% in 2024.
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eaglecounty.usIn terms of specific sectors, buildings accounted for 42% of total emissions, while transportation contributed to 45%.Notably, emissions from electricity used in buildings have decreased by 66% since 2014, although emissions from natural gas have risen by 9% during the same period.
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vaildaily.comeaglecounty.usTo further reduce emissions, Eagle County aims to decarbonize the building and transportation sectors.The Climate Action Collaborative (CAC) is working with local governments to modernize building codes, ensuring that new constructions are more energy-efficient and all-electric.
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vaildaily.comThis initiative is part of a broader strategy to achieve a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030 and an 80% reduction by 2050.
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vaildaily.comwalkingmountains.orgThe transportation sector has also shown promising results, with a 9% decrease in emissions from the previous year.This decline can be attributed to increased public transit ridership, a significant rise in registered electric vehicles (EVs), and a growing number of bike trips taken in the area.
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vaildaily.comThe county has seen a nearly 64% increase in light-duty EV registrations and a 74% increase in bike trips via Shift Bike, a local bike-sharing program.
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vaildaily.comDespite these successes, challenges remain, particularly in the waste sector, where solid waste emissions increased by 4% compared to 2023.However, the county has made strides in waste diversion, with 24% of waste being recycled or composted, significantly higher than the statewide average of 16%.
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vaildaily.comThe CAC, along with Walking Mountains Science Center, is committed to promoting sustainable transportation options and expanding EV charging infrastructure to support further adoption of electric vehicles.
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vaildaily.comaspencore.orgAdditionally, they are working to enhance local waste diversion initiatives and raise awareness about recycling construction and demolition materials, which represent a significant portion of landfill waste.
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vaildaily.comThe 2024 Energy Inventory Report highlights the importance of community engagement and collaboration in achieving climate goals.The CAC encourages residents to participate in working groups focused on buildings, energy supply, transportation, materials management, and resiliency.
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vaildaily.comAs Eagle County continues to make progress in reducing GHG emissions, the community's collective efforts demonstrate that local actions can lead to meaningful change in the fight against climate change.
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vaildaily.comwalkingmountains.orgFor more information on the Climate Action Collaborative and how to get involved, residents are encouraged to visit the Eagle County website and explore the various initiatives aimed at fostering a sustainable future.
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vaildaily.comIn conclusion, the 2024 Energy Inventory Report serves as a testament to Eagle County's commitment to climate action and the potential for continued progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions through innovative solutions and community collaboration.
