Acting boldly on climate change
For ourselves and generations to come
Our vision for a climate-friendly future
Hennepin County’s Climate Action Plan guides the county’s response to climate change. Pursuing the strategies laid out in the plan will enable us to create a better future for ourselves and future generations.
The Climate Action Plan
The plan includes 5 goals, 29 strategies, and 145 tactics. The strategies focus on cutting greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to our changing climate in ways that reduce vulnerabilities and ensure a more equitable and resilient Hennepin County.
Download the Climate Action PlanPDF (91 pages - 8MB)
What climate change means for Hennepin County
More and more, Hennepin County residents are noticing the effects of climate change — from warming winter temperatures, more extreme rain and snow events, and changes in our valued ecosystems.
Everyone experiences climate change, but the impacts are not felt equally. Communities of color, low-income families, residents with disabilities, and other vulnerable communities are the most at risk from negative climate impacts.
How Hennepin County is leading on climate action
Hennepin County’s response to climate change is important. The county leads in many areas that offer the most effective ways to cut greenhouse gas emissions, such as investing in transit, conserving energy use in our buildings, protecting natural resources, and preventing waste.
What we can do: Taking action at home and in your community
We all have a shared responsibility to do more to combat climate change and protect our local environment.
Staying safe in the heat and humidity
Minnesotans love spending time outdoors in summer, but summer heat and humidity can be dangerous, especially for those with underlying health conditions or who work or exercise outdoors. Learn how to be prepared for hot days and steps to take to stay cool.
Minnesotans love visiting lakes and beaches throughout the summer. But keeping an eye on water safety is increasingly important since climate change is expected to increase water-related illness.
Plan a local eco-getaway this summer to reduce airplane travel
Mile for mile, flying is the most damaging way to travel for the climate. Reducing airplane travel is one of the most impactful ways we can reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. This summer, trade one airplane vacation for a local eco-getaway instead.