What is Boulder’s Climate Action Plan

After an unprecedentedly warm and dry winter in Boulder, climate change doesn't feel abstract. It shows up in wildfire smoke over the foothills, hotter days that stretch later into the evening, and real concerns about energy costs, transportation and community safety.

These aren't distant risks. They're here, and they're shaping how we live.

While climate change is a global challenge, the pace and scale of our response is defined locally. That's where Boulder's Climate Action Plan (CAP) comes in.

The plan is more than a policy document. It is a shared commitment to reduce climate change, prepare for what is already changing and invest in a healthier, more resilient future.

This update reflects a shift. Rather than focusing on isolated projects, the CAP connects work across buildings, clean energy, land use, open space, transportation and community programs, aligning our efforts around the outcomes that matter most.

At its core, this is about quality of life. The same actions that cut emissions can also lower energy costs, improve air quality, advance climate justice and equity and create cooler, safer neighborhoods.

Looking ahead

Over the past several months, Boulder community members, partners and staff have come together to shape this update, bringing forward ideas, priorities and a shared expectation that we act with urgency.

This plan reflects where we are and where we need to go next.

It strengthens our ability to coordinate action across the community, support a resilient local economy and protect public health. Just as importantly, it helps us stay accountable to our goals, to each other and to future generations.

But this is not the finish line. Plans do not reduce emissions. People do. Progress will depend on continued partnership, difficult choices and a willingness to lead.

Boulder has never waited for others to act first. This plan builds on that tradition.

Sign up to be the first to access the full Climate Action Plan when it is released. Visit our website to learn more about our climate work, participate in our Climate Bingo and be a part of what comes next.