The City of Tucson has announced a new commitment to protecting its community from climate change impacts by being one of the first cities in the nation to take part as an inaugural community in the Climate Resilient Communities (CRC) program, the first comprehensive climate adaptation program for local governments, developed by ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability USA.

The City was selected by ICLEI USA to be one of eight “Inaugural Adaptation Communities” that will be the first to receive its cutting-edge online tools, technical support, and other resources.

Through this support, the City of Tucson will accelerate its efforts to prepare for climate change impacts that are already affecting the region and, according to the latest scientific reports, are expected to intensify in coming decades. These include the following:

• intense droughts and water shortages
• more frequent heat waves that put the elderly, young, and disadvantaged at risk
• flooding and severe storms that damage infrastructure and private property
• increased smog and air pollution that exacerbate respiratory illnesses and other medical conditions

“Climate change continues to challenge Tucson’s and the nation’s long-term sustainability and quality of life,” said Mayor Bob Walkup. “We have a responsibility to protect our community’s assets, infrastructure, and natural resources, and to keep our community members safe and healthy. By beginning our planning and preparation now through ICLEI USA’s program, we’re taking smart steps to safeguard our future.”

Using ICLEI USA’s resources, including its online Adaptation and Database Planning Tool (ADAPT), the City will conduct a thorough assessment of its current and projected vulnerabilities to climate change impacts, set climate resiliency goals, and develop a plan with a range of adaptation strategies, which may include diversifying water supplies, strengthening infrastructure, and planting more vegetation to counteract the urban heat island effect.

Tucson joins seven other cities and counties selected by ICLEI USA as Inaugural Adaptation Communities for their leadership, innovation, and commitment to climate protection. These include Boston, Massachusetts; Cambridge, Massachusetts; Flagstaff, Arizona; Grand Rapids, Michigan; Lee County, Florida; Miami-Dade County, Florida; San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC)

“The City of Tucson’s climate leadership among local governments is confirmed by its foresight and wise commitment to preparing now for climate change impacts,” said Martin Chavez, former three-term mayor of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and Executive Director of ICLEI USA, the nation’s leading nonprofit membership organization of local governments committed to climate protection, clean energy, and sustainability. “For more than five years, local governments have expressed an urgent need for resources and guidance to help them prepare for the unavoidable impacts of climate change. ICLEI USA is proud to finally release these resources to Tucson and all our members.”

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