San Anselmo outlines ambitious emissions targets for 2030 and 2045

During the recent San Anselmo General Plan Advisory Committee meeting on December 12, 2024, local officials discussed significant advancements and future goals regarding emissions reduction and climate action. The meeting highlighted the town's commitment to meeting state-mandated targets for greenhouse gas emissions, which have become increasingly stringent over the years.

California has set ambitious goals for emissions reduction, beginning with Assembly Bill 32 in 2006, which aimed to return emissions to 1990 levels by 2020—a target that San Anselmo successfully met four years early. The subsequent Senate Bill 32 established a new target for 2030, requiring a 40% reduction below 1990 levels, while Assembly Bill 1279 aims for net-zero emissions by 2045. These legislative measures underscore the urgency of addressing climate change at both state and local levels.

The meeting also addressed specific regulations that will impact San Anselmo, including a mandate for zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) to be the only type sold in California by 2035, with medium and heavy-duty vehicles following suit by 2045. Additionally, the state is pushing for electrification in building codes, which will require new constructions to utilize electric heating systems and appliances, phasing out natural gas options over the next decade.

San Anselmo's Climate Action Plan, adopted in 2019, aims for a more aggressive target of a 45% reduction in emissions by 2030. This plan includes strategies for clean energy, resource conservation, and climate resilience, aligning with the town's broader general plan. The town has already made strides in transitioning its vehicle fleet to electric and implementing regulations that ban gas-powered landscaping equipment.

The meeting also reviewed the town's greenhouse gas emissions inventory, revealing a 25% reduction since 1990. However, officials acknowledged that achieving future targets will become increasingly challenging as the easier reductions have already been implemented. The current focus is on transportation and natural gas emissions, which represent the largest sources of greenhouse gases in the community.

As San Anselmo continues to navigate its climate goals, the discussions at this meeting reflect a proactive approach to environmental stewardship, emphasizing the importance of local actions in the broader context of global climate initiatives. The town's next steps will involve further implementation of its Climate Action Plan and ongoing community engagement to ensure that residents are informed and involved in these critical efforts.