Public Communications. It is beneficial for any kind of organization to let its public know of worthwhile activities in which it is involved. A city becoming involved in climate planning and action should initiate and maintain such an activity so as to garner the maximum level of support from the community.
1. Develop an ongoing program in which knowledgeable city climate staff go into the community to explain low- and zero-carbon energy options, as well as examples of how the city plans to decarbonize.
2. Design and build a website, or a distinct page of your city’s official website, which will tell the story of your city’s efforts to carry out climate-related actions. Give generous credit to any and all individuals, businesses, institutions, etc., who are involved in supporting the city’s climate activities. “Minneapolis Climate Action Plan” www.minneapolismn.gov
3. Initiate a program giving awards, perhaps on an annual basis, to winners of your city’s version of the Carbon Neutral Adelaide Awards www.carbonneutraladelaide.com.au/awards-2021 Categories could include: Energy and the Built Environment, Low-carbon Transport, Waste and the Circular Economy, Business/Professional Leadership, Community Involvement, etc.
4. Send out news releases to all local and metropolitan media and appropriate forms of social media providing up-to-date information on what your city is doing re. climate, clean energy, decarbonization, improved waste management practices, etc.
