news from the Cabinet on Aging:
Maine Climate Council
August Greetings from the Cabinet on Aging!
Summer tends to be a busy time in Maine and this year is no different! This month I wanted to highlight the work of the Maine Climate Council and be sure everyone is aware of this work and how we can be part of the conversation. We need to hear as many voices as possible because we know that our understanding of climate change is shaped by where we live, what impacts we’ve experienced, and our economic and social conditions.
What is Maine’s Climate Council?
The Council was established by Governor Mills and Legislature in 2019 to bring together experts, bipartisan leaders, and engaged citizens to develop a four-year plan to address the impacts of climate change on Maine and build resiliency. The first plan ("Maine Won't Wait" ) was finalized December 1, 2020. By law, the Council must deliver an updated plan by December 1, 2024.
What are the Key Goal Areas of the Climate Action Plan?
These include: 1) reducing Maine’s greenhouse gas emissions; 2) making Maine more resilient to the impacts of climate change; 3) fostering economic opportunity and prosperity; and 4) advancing equity through Maine’s response.
What Strategies will be in the Next Climate Action Report?
The Maine Climate Council is considering a wide variety of strategies as it updates the state climate action plan. The recommendations have been grouped into 8 topic areas. They include: 1) Buildings, Infrastructure and Housing; 2) Community Resilience; 3) Transportation; 4) Energy; 5) Materials Management; 6) Natural and Working Lands; 7) Land Use; and 8) Coastal and Marine. The specific recommendations in each of these areas can be viewed here.
How can I Participate?
You can complete the Climate Council survey. As an alternative to the full survey, there are brief 2–3-minute surveys in the different topic areas. To fill out the surveys for specific topic areas, click here and scroll down the page to find the policy area you are most interested in.
The Climate Council also just announced a series of community forums and are excited to meet you in person and hear what's important to you and your community. You can register here to attend a meeting in person or online: https://mailchi.mp/maine.gov/september-maine-climate-council-public-meetings
Thank you!
Many of you are already engaged in a variety of ways that address the impacts of climate on your communities. Thank you as always for your commitment, time, and engagement!