Greenhouse Gas Emissions

 

Greenhouse gases get trapped in the atmosphere, which causes warming and leads to climate change. These gases are emitted when we drive, turn on the lights in our homes and buildings, and when waste breaks down in the landfill, among other sources. Beyond the costs associated with delayed climate action, there are cost savings to be realized through efforts to improve energy efficiency, conserve energy and reduce GHG emissions intensity. To make informed decisions on reducing energy use and GHG emissions at the community scale, leaders must have a good understanding of GHG sources, the activities that drive them, and their relative contribution to the total. This requires the completion of a GHG Emissions Inventory.

 

 

 

In Louisville, climate change is causing temperatures to rise and more extreme weather events to occur. These changes are leading to more frequent rain events and flooding, challenges in food productions, more rapidly aging infrastructure, and higher energy costs. These emissions also affect the health of our residents. Higher greenhouse gas emissions contribute to adverse health outcomes including respiratory and cardiovascular stress and asthma. 

For more information on the Prepare Louisville campaign to increase our resilience to extreme weather, click here.