City of Madison Adopts Sustainability Plan

For Immediate Release

The City of Madison is proud to release the 2024 Sustainability Plan. This plan is a roadmap to cut climate pollution, prepare for and minimize the impacts of climate change, improve environmental quality, and ensure the health and well-being of all Madisonians. The Common Council voted unanimously to adopt the plan on August 6, 2024. This update is a continuation of City of Madison’s dedication and ongoing efforts to improve climate equity and environmental justice. It is the result of over three years of work led by the Sustainable Madison Committee and the City’s Sustainability and Resilience Program, and it reflects input from City staff, local experts and partners, and the Madison community.

"I am delighted to present the City of Madison’s 2024 Sustainability Plan,” said Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway. “This plan represents another step forward in ensuring that Madison remains a vibrant and sustainable place for generations to come.  I look forward to working with staff, partner organizations, and the broader Madison community to implement the Plan and achieve this sustainable vision for Madison."

In March 2017, the City of Madison became the 25th city in North America to set a goal of achieving 100% renewable energy and zero-net carbon emissions for city operations by 2030 and community-wide by 2050. This was in response to scientists’ warning that immediate action was necessary to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Unfortunately, recent years have confirmed their guidance. Last year was the hottest yet, with global temperatures easily breaking previous records.

“We cannot delay confronting the threat of climate change—our health, safety, and economy depend on swift and decisive action,” said Alder Nikki Conklin. “Madison faces increasing risks as temperatures rise and severe weather events become more frequent. The impacts on our community are real and urgent, and this plan is our commitment to making sure Madison can thrive in a changing climate."

The Sustainability Plan includes 24 goals organized into eight elements of a sustainable city: Quality, Affordable Housing; Resilient City Design & Infrastructure; Renewable Energy and Decarbonization; Sustainable Transportation; Clean, Abundant Water; Zero Waste; Healthy Ecosystems; and a Vibrant, Green Economy. Each goal is accompanied by a set of actions and metrics to help track progress. The plan also highlights many of the City’s current initiatives related to sustainability and climate action.

“The City of Madison's ambitious sustainability plan is a testament to our commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable future together,” said Alder Nasra Wehelie. “Developed with the guiding values of equity, justice, education, and public health, this plan not only addresses environmental challenges but also ensures that our efforts deliver meaningful and equitable benefits to every member of our community.”

Hearing from the community was a critical part of the process to develop the plan. Community engagement included an online survey provided in four languages with over 1,600 responses, pop-up events at the Dane County Farmers Market and Wisconsin Science Festival with over 600 participants, and seven focus groups with diverse stakeholders. These efforts were bolstered by a social media campaign and signage placed throughout the community.

“Thank you to everyone who shared their vision and priorities for a more sustainable Madison with the project team. We are fortunate to have so many passionate youth, students, and community groups already working hard to address the climate crisis.” said Alder MGR Govindarajan. “Your input was essential for shaping a plan that reflects the needs and aspirations of our community now and for future generations.”

This plan also builds on many current City plans and initiatives. The City’s first formal sustainability plan was released in 2004, and the most recent community-wide sustainability plan was adopted in 2011. Additionally, the City adopted the 100% Renewable Madison report in 2018.

“Our city has a strong foundation of climate and sustainability leadership” said Alder Tag Evers. “This plan shows a clear path for how we can continue to grow and enhance the health and wellbeing of our community and our environment. I’m excited to see the benefits that implementing this plan will provide to Madison.”

The 2024 Sustainability Plan is available on the City of Madison’s website, including executive summaries in Spanish, Chinese, and Hmoob.