Climate Curve

Primary Project Category:

Project Summary / Description:

In 2018, Mayor Kelly and Councilwoman Constance were alarmed by anticipated climate change impacts to Kansas City. Collaboration with other area elected officials reflected the desire to create a more resilient region, but a lack of knowledge about tools and specific solutions. Climate Action KC was then formed to inform and empower regional leaders. The coalition grew to over 100 elected leaders and hundreds of community, civic and scientific leaders. In 2019 CAKC partnered with MARC to initiate a metro-wide climate action plan, organized a Climate Action Summit for 750 leaders, and published an already influential Climate Action Playbook.

Regions of Operations:

Best Estimate of GHG Avoidance/Reduction of This Project (Tonnes CO2 Equivalent/Year):

Impact on Underrepresented Groups:

Given that equity is a constant focus and priority for CAKC, we want to have a broad, diverse chorus of voices in a big-tent organization. We realize that the most vulnerable metro area residents are also those most impacted by a changing climate. Therefore, ensuring that all area communities are included and represented is a primary goal. We currently have partnerships with several organizations dedicated to diversity and inclusion, including but not limited to the NAACP of Kansas City, Westside Housing and El Centro. 

Further, in order to ensure that we have direct lines of advocacy from diverse voices to our policy makers, CAKC committees include both an Equity Advisory Panel, as well as a Youth Advisory Panel. The inaugural Climate Action Summit last September featured Equity and Youth Engagement panels and diversity among speakers as well. 

The climate risk and vulnerability assessment currently in development will help define and quantify the demographics and distribution of vulnerable populations and communities. Critical public health and safety impacts from increased heat and flooding, for example, are being mapped to support focused planning and investment. Additionally, climate risks and vulnerabilities are being embedded in related regional plans (e.g. hazard mitigation, transportation, affordable housing and green infrastructure) to integrate and focus policy responses in alignment with shared regional equity goals. 

In order to make sure that all interests are represented, our organization allows membership from any legal entity with a regional interest in climate mitigation and adaptation.