Climate and Energy Resources for State, Local and Tribal Governments

Tribes & Climate Change Action

Use the free Tribal Greenhouse Gas Inventory Tool  to compile a greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory for your entire community or for tribal government operations in particular.

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Climate Change Impacts and the Benefits of Taking Action:

Native Americans are particularly vulnerable to impacts of projected changes in climate for many reasons. Their communities are closely tied to specific reservation boundaries that can restrict their ability to relocate to avoid or cope with climate change impacts, including those on water resources, agriculture and ecosystems. These projected climate change impacts will also vary regionally.


Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and managing energy use can have many benefits: besides reducing carbon pollution, it may also help tribal efforts to improve air quality and public health, reduce energy costs, and increase economic and workforce development opportunities.

Climate Action Areas:

Tribal communities can reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency, residential energy efficiency, utility programs, land use planning, renewable energy, transportation, water/wastewater, and waste and materials management. Tribal communities can also use climate and energy information and tools to address other specific tribal community needs, policies, and programs.

Climate Action Planning:

Tribes who want to develop climate change mitigation projects can find information on Northern Arizona University's Climate Change and Tribes website Exit. EPA's Local Climate and Energy Program Local Climate Action Framework can also be adapted to fit tribal communities' project planning needs.

Collaboration:

Tribes and state and local governments can collaborate on developing mutually beneficial climate and energy projects. Tribal communities can contribute perspectives in discussions at the state, local, and national levels that will increase the possibility of cohesive regional solutions to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Tribal communities may also seek to partner with national tribal and regional organizations Exit for funding and project development opportunities.

Funding:

Tribal nations may require funding Exit to plan and implement climate and energy projects. Communities can research opportunities for funding from state and local governments, tribal regional and national organizations, and federal entities.

Tribal Examples:

In this archived webinar, learn how Gila River Indian Community and Choctaw Nation are reducing greenhouse gas emissions through recycling and energy efficiency audits, and learn how the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin is integrating climate change considerations into its overall decision-making and in its water management programs.

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