Climate Change Action Plan
Florida is considered one of the most vulnerable
areas to climate change, with Southeast Florida
especially susceptible to impacts such as rising
sea levels. Miami-Dade County has been on theforefront of these issues for many years. Our Boardof County Commissioners and administrative
departments have been implementing policies
and initiatives to address climate change,
environmental protection and other importantsustainability issues including energy efficiency
and water conservation. By tracking greenhousegas (GHG) emissions early and analyzing climatechange data, we have taken steps to reduce GHG
emissions and avoid or reduce the severity ofclimate change impacts.
Now is the time to accelerate and build
upon those efforts. Miami-Dade County iscreating this climate action plan as an integral
component of GreenPrint. This initial plan will
focus on what steps will be necessary in thenext five years to further reduce GHG, as well
as better determine the potential impacts andresulting vulnerabilities of climate change inthe region and the community. These steps
will make Miami-Dade County a more resilient
community in the face of a changing climate. It
is time to turn the science into action.
Goals•U nderstand and respond to current and futureclimate change impacts
	Integrate local climate change indicators withexisting emergency management, storm waterplanning and infrastructure planning•R educe greenhouse gas emissions

	Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 10 percent by
2015, working towards 80 percent reduction by 2050
to advance the Cool Counties Program commitment

Strengths & Accomplishments…Opportunities & Actions
I. What is climate change and what does it mean to Miami-Dade?
One of the most significant challenges facing the southeast Florida region and the world is the threat of climate change.
Although the planet has experienced natural cycles in atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide and temperature formore than 600,000 years, there is now an unprecedented rate of greenhouse gas (GHG) build up in the earth’s atmosphere
due to human activities. As a result, more and more of the sun’s heat energy is trapped. Worldwide, changes are occurring tomany interconnected forces that determine precipitation, temperature, severe weather patterns, sea level, ocean currents
and acidification. These related systems form complicatedfeedback loops that are affected by climate change and, in
According to NOAA’s July 2010 Global State of the Climate
turn, can diminish or intensify climate change impacts. These
Report, the combined global land and ocean average surface
complex relationships make the extent and timing of climate
temperature for July 2010 was the second warmest on record,change impacts difficult to predict, especially at regional andand the global combined land and ocean surface temperature
local levels. In the absence of accurate and specific localwas the warmest January-July period on record.
impact predictions, we are challenged with identifying and(United States. Dept. of Commerce. NOAA, “Second Warmest July”, n. pag.)using credible climate scenarios, along with local impact
and vulnerability assessments, as a basis for planning oursustainable future. The development of scenarios andplanning regimes is challenging.

Climate Change versus Global Warming
The term “global warming” has evolved over the past decade to the term “climate change” because we have realized thatthe greenhouse effect does not merely lead to warmer temperatures. The term “global warming” represents the long-termrise in the average global temperature and can be misleading because the actual weather effects associated with “global
warming” can be highly variable, depending on the region. As a result, we now use the term “climate change,” which moreaccurately reflects that our concerns are much broader than global temperature increases. Climate change is defined as afunction of increased average temperature over time while the actual weather-related effects of a changing climate can
impact variability and extremes – including potential for warmer and cooler temperatures, wetter and dryer conditions,and changes in the intensity, frequency and patterns of storms.

CLIMATE CHANGE ACTION PLAN

Global temperature increases affect many forces, including global weather patterns, ocean conditions and sea levels.
Warming will not be the same for every region; long-term changes in average temperatures will have different impacts indifferent locations. Current science is projecting that the southeastern United States could experience a general increase inaverage temperatures anywhere from 4.5oF to 9oF in the coming century (Karl et al, 111), depending on the Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change greenhouse gas emissions scenario utilized for the projections (Intergovernmental Panel on
Climate Change (IPCC), “Special Report” Appendix 1). This temperature change will likely manifest itself as an increase in thenumber of days over 90oF, with the greatest temperature increases expected during the summer months (Karl et al., 111).

Is sea level rising?
“I like to think of mitigation as avoiding the unmanageable, whereas adaptation is managing the unavoidable.
We must do both in order to solve the problem of climate change.”- Dr. Jane Lubchenco, U.S. Department of Commerce Under Secretary for Oceans
and Atmosphere, White House Listening Session, June 23, 2010
Miami-Dade County, Florida

The region’s climate, unique natural resources and other distinct characteristics make the community extremely susceptible
to some of the effects of changing climate conditions. In particular, our low elevation and porous substrate make the region
vulnerable to the many potential effects of sea level rise. Even slight changes in sea levels have the potential to significantly
affect our infrastructure, drinking water supply, and risks associated with storm surge, flooding, and coastal erosion. Given
the potential consequences, it is imperative that we track changes and projections, closely monitor local conditions, andadopt adaptation strategies.

g r e e n P R I N TKey West Sea Level Rise Trend
0.60
0.45
0.30
0.15

MetersThis figure illustrates
a clear trend of sea
level rise from 1913
to 2006 at a NOAA
tide gauge located in
Key West, Florida

0.00
-0.15
-0.30
-0.45
-0.60
1900.01910.0

Data with the average
seasonal cycle removed

1920.01930.0Higher 95%
confidence interval

1940.01950.0Linear meansea level trend1960.0Lower 95%
confidence interval

1970.01980.01990.02000.02010.0

Tide Gauge 8724580
Key West, FL 2.24+/-0.16 mm/yr

Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, NOAA, “Tides & Currents,” n. pag.

It is important to note that relative sea level trends vary throughout the world. We will use the local sea level or local mean sea
level trend for various planning needs associated with climate change adaptation planning. The National Oceanographic
and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has three gauges located in the Southeast Florida region that measure mean sea
level trend; Miami Beach, Vaca Key, and Key West.
According to NOAA, the mean increase in sea level trend at the Key West tide gauge is approximately 2.24 millimeters per
year from 1913 to 2006, which is roughly equivalent to a change of 0.73 feet in 100 years (United States. Dept. of Commerce.
NOAA, “Tides & Currents”, n. pag.). A recent study by NOAA indicates that additional tide gauges in the southeast Florida
area would allow for more accurate regional integration of sea level rise and tidal fluctuations. This additional data may be
helpful as Miami-Dade County develops inundation maps to assess vulnerable areas and infrastructure. The bottom line,
however, is simple: sea level is rising.

Current and Future Regional Threats
Today South Florida is experiencing the extreme conditions detailed below. Although their occurrence may not be directly
attributed to climate change at this time, they are key hazard threats that are likely to be impacted by climate change.

Temperature Extremes
During the first seven months of 2010, southeast Florida experienced first-hand the types of temperature extremes that
may occur as a result of climate change. According to the National Weather Service, the time period of December 2009
through February 2010 was “the coldest three months in nearly four decades,” with average daily temperatures two to
three degrees below normal across the region. Miami Beach experienced its second-coldest winter ever, with averagetemperatures 5.6 degrees below normal, and broke an all-time coldest January-February mark set in 1958 (United States.
Dept. of Commerce. NOAA, “Hottest Summer” n. pag.). In stark contrast, the 2010 summer experienced hotter than normal
temperatures. These unusually high temperatures began in May and continued through the summer. In fact, the period ofJune through August was the hottest summer on record for all four main climate sites in South Florida (Primary Airports
in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, Palm Beach, and Naples) (United States. Dept. of Commerce. NOAA, “Hottest Summer” n. pag.).

Rainfall Extremes
Changes in precipitation patterns are also projected to affect Miami-Dade County’s climate. These changes can increase
the likelihood of flooding and drought, both of which would have distinct but detrimental impacts on the County’s water
quality and supply. Since the early 1900’s, South Florida’s spring, summer and fall precipitation has dropped nearly 10
percent. (United States. Dept. of Commerce. NOAA, “2009 S. FL” 8). Local data indicates there has been an increase in heavy

M i a m i - D a d e

C o u n t y

Photo courtesy of Eric Blake, National Hurricane Center

Severe flooding from heavy downpour on Miami Beach, June 5, 2009.

downpours in the region, and a 2009 report by the Florida
Oceans and Coastal Council indicates this trend may
increase and combine with longer droughts in between.
An example of these extremes was seen within a ninemonth period, between November 2008 and July 2009.
The six-month period from November 2008 through April
2009 ranked as the second driest period on record overmost of South Florida (United States. Dept. of Commerce.
NOAA, “2009 S. FL” 8), which resulted in severe to extreme
drought conditions over South Florida from late February
through April. In May, this extremely dry season quickly
reversed to a very wet rainy season with above-normal
rainfall persisting into mid-July. In fact, a summer storm on
June 5, 2009 dumped a total of 9.3 inches of rain on South
Beach, most of it in less than three hours, overwhelming
the gravity-driven stormwater drainage system. This
caused severe flooding in areas of South Beach, Miami
Beach and downtown Miami, leaving some areas with asmuch as three feet of standing water. (United States. Dept.
of Commerce. NOAA, “2009 S. FL” 8)

Salt Water Intrusion and Our Water Supply
Southeast Florida was historically a wetland habitat andtherefore still has many low-lying areas, particularly to thewest and south (the Everglades). Much of Florida has been
under water in the past, during periods of higher sea levels.
As sea levels rose and fell, the calcium carbonate fromocean organisms and algae were deposited, forming thesedimentary limestone bedrock (Allen 2). This substrate isextremely porous, allowing water to flow freely throughout
the underground bedrock. This porosity hydrologicallyconnects the region’s sole source of fresh drinking water, theCourtesy of the South Florida Water Management District
Biscayne Aquifer, to the salty water of the ocean. Because of
As sea level rises, the saltwater front may move further inland,
this hydrologic connection, increases in sea level may pushthreatening drinking water wells.
this salt-front line further inland and closer to drinking
water wells, threatening the region’s fresh water supply. The
porosity of the ground is an additional challenge when it comes to protecting the community from inundation due torising seas, since traditional walls and other barriers will not likely be effective for southeast Florida.

Coastal Erosion and Shallow Coastal Flooding
Beaches and sand dunes are an important component of the region’s
coastline and are very dynamic, constantly changing due to natural
erosion and movement of sand from wind, currents, and wave
action. They can provide a first line of defense from storm surge,
and are significant assets that make the region an attractive tourist
destination. Various weather events that lead to higher winds, tides,
and surf cause additional erosion, which can be severe. MiamiDade County has been addressing this issue since 1975 with its
acclaimed Miami-Dade Beach Erosion Control Project. This programis recognized as a national model and has won numerous nationaland statewide awards. Although the specific amount varies fromyear to year and from project to project, Miami-Dade County invests
approximately $6 million annually in beach restoration. Communities
adjacent to the ocean and intracoastal waterways periodicallyg r e e n P R I N TFlooding on Miami Beach on October 7, 2010 due to natural high tide exacerbatedby on-shore winds, driving tidal waters up in to the streets through the stormwaterdrainage system.

experience flooding from extreme hightides. These occasional high tides inundate
the coastal communities through gravitydriven stormwater drainage systems
and over low-lying sea-walls, leading to
infrastructure and property damage. Tidelevels during June 2009 were six inches
to two feet above normal. The cycle of themoon contributed to this event, which
is not necessarily unusual. However, thegeographic extent of this event along
the entire East Coast made this high tide
event anomalous. Even a tide .75 to one
foot higher than normal can cause similar
flooding in low-lying coastal areas if there
is a strong on-shore wind, as was the caseon October 7, 2010, driving saltwater
into the streets of Miami Beach (Molleda,
Robert. Personal email communication.
October 12, 2010)

Low-lying coastal and inland wetland habitats also play an important role in the region’s unique and valuable environmental
attributes and are important to both local ecosystems and the economy. Coastal mangrove habitats help stabilize shoreline
sediments, play a critical role as spawning grounds and nursery for many marine species, and form a protective lineof defense from storm surge. Similarly, Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park are home to a number ofendangered species. In addition to the critical role of protecting and replenishing our region’s drinking water supply, theEverglades also provides critical habitat that can serve as a corridor for species migration that may occur due to climatechange. However, much of these natural areas have an elevation of less than three feet (United States. Dept. of the Interior1), and therefore will also be extremely vulnerable to inundation impacts from sea level rise.

have devastating impacts. The region is no stranger tohurricanes, as evidenced by Hurricane Andrew in 1992
and the busy hurricane season of 2005 (Hurricanes Katrina
and Wilma).
Our community will continue to experience these events,
and their impacts may be exacerbated through climatechange. In addition to greater coastal erosion, for instance,increasing sea levels will likely amplify the height anddistance of storm surge that may travel inland, increasing
its damage. Furthermore, a higher water table associatedwith increased sea level may also lead to longer periods offlooding following storm events, delaying or perhaps evenpreventing the recovery of those communities hardest hit.
Buildings, water and sewer networks, solid waste facilities
and power utilities could all be at risk. Steps taken to better
anticipate, prepare and adapt our community for tropicalstorms and hurricanes will improve the overall sustainability and resilience of our community.

What is known:
Hurricane frequency and strength have increased dramatically since 1995. Much of the change is attributed to natural cycles.

What is probable:

Warmer temperatures create the potential for stronger hurricanes. Hurricane frequency may remain the same or decrease aspart of climate change. A lower number of tropical storms and hurricanes each year could reduce the region’s water supply.
Likewise, an increase in tropical activity could increase flooding. In either case, hydroperiod changes will be stressful tomanaged and natural systems.

What is possible:

While the number and strength of tropical storms change naturally, the exact degree to which climate change may alter thenatural cycles is uncertain.

Inland Flooding and Stormwater Management
While coastal flooding as a result of climate change is an obvious threat, inland flooding is a threat of equal importance,
especially when considering the development density and ground elevation of some urbanized areas in the western
portions of the county. While our porous substrate provides some advantages - mitigating flooding and naturally recharging
the freshwater aquifer by allowing some rain water to percolate into the ground - it also presents challenges. As sea level
rises, the water table will also rise, coming closer to the ground surface and causing surface flooding in areas of lowest
elevation. This threat of flooding will be further increased during periods of heavy precipitation since the capacity of thegravity-driven stormwater system and ground to absorb the run-off may be greatly reduced. Additionally, the probabilityof salt intrusion in the Biscayne Aquifer, which is currently the only source of water supply to the County, could potentiallychange the characteristics of the ground water.

Extreme Storms & Damage
There is much scientific research on the causes, trends and complex factors
affecting tropical storm and hurricane development. A hint of this complexity
was presented in a recent South Florida Water Management District (District)
Report, which stated, “As the atmosphere warms, sea surface temperatures
and wind shear will also increase. These two factors can have opposing
effects on tropical storms. The role of sea temperatures is complicated. As
the temperatures rise, overall storm frequency may decrease, but intensityof stronger storms may increase” (Ammon et al, 21). Add to this complexity
the uncertainty of climate change and its effects on these storms, and thefuture trends and impacts become extremely unclear. What is clear is that
our community will continue to experience these events, and they can

M i a m i - D a d e

C o u n t y

Impacts Now: Severe Weather
Florida is ranked number one in total
damage costs from hurricanes (1900 –2007), fourth in total damage costs fromfloods (1955 – 2007), and number one intotal damage costs from hurricanes, floods,
and tornadoes combined (1955 – 2007).
(National Center for Atmospheric Researchn. pag.).

Information gaps:

While the number and strength of tropical storms change naturally, the exact degree to which climate change may alter thenatural cycles is uncertain.
(Source: Ammon et al, 21)

II. Climate Change Adaptation Plan – Creating a Resilient andSustainable Future for our Community
Miami-Dade already has knowledge and skill preparing for extreme events due to its experience preparing for andrecovering from hurricanes. This experience provides us with an advantage that most other communities do not have.
Within County government, our Stormwater Master Plan and Local Mitigation Strategy are two leading initiatives thatserve as critical building blocks for community resilience. Further, Miami-Dade County has fostered effective working
relationships with state and federal agencies to build local resilience, including the partnership among Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA), the State of Florida and Miami-Dade County to increase secondary canal drainage capacity
between 2002 and 2006. Further, Miami-Dade County is actively engaged with the South Florida Water Management
District, the National Park Service, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration
Plan (CERP). Everglades restoration is now more important than ever, “since a restored Everglades will be healthier andmore resilient to climate change,” (United States. Dept. of the Interior 4).

g r e e n P R I N TMiami-Dade County is also working with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) to develop a water flow model that integrates
surface and groundwater flow, in order to assess existing and future impacts on water resources in South Florida. The
model will be capable of assessing the impacts of increasing water demand, changing water management practices, andclimate change on the Biscayne Aquifer and the regional canal system in South Florida. It will also be able to assess salt
water intrusion as a result of climate change and sea level rise, and will be an important tool in our adaptation planning
efforts.
Other agencies are building resilience in Miami-Dade County as well. The District has numerous coastal gravity structuresin canals throughout the region. These are designed to discharge excess water during heavy rain and storm events, and tohelp keep salt water from migrating into the freshwater upstream of the structure. The District has conducted a vulnerability
analysis in the South Florida region, identifying several of these structures that have increasing tailwater levels, which is
the water on the ocean-side of the structure. As sea level rises, this tailwater level will also rise, which will further reducethe discharge capacity of the structure. The District has specifically identified three structures as a priority for constructionof new forward pumps once funding becomes available. These facilities will be designed to maintain a specific level ofdischarge capacity even with a certain amount of sea level rise.

GreenPrint Adaptation Strategies & Initiatives
A great deal of vital research is now underway that will increase our understanding of regional climate change impacts.
Not only are temperatures and sea levels affected, but rainfall, storms, and ecological conditions are all impacted. The exact
local impacts are extremely difficult to predict, given the complex drivers and dependencies, but general trends can bemodeled. For example, El Niño and La Niña effects are common in the southeast, resulting in dramatic seasonal and yearto-year variations in temperature, precipitation and tropical storm development. In spite of the complexity and uncertainty
associated with predicting local climate change impacts, we are able to build cost-effective adaptation strategies from ourexisting hazards planning efforts. During this first
five-year phase of our Climate Change Action Plan
Strategies(CAP), the majority of adaptation planning efforts• Track local and regional climate change indicators and trends
outlined below will revolve around gaining a better
understanding of the potential future climate• Develop local and regional climate change scenarioschanges our region may experience. This better
depicting various impacts and time frames
understanding will arm us with critical knowledge• Integrate future climate change impacts into community
necessary to develop planning tools that will help
and government decision-making for capital, operational,
us evaluate potential resulting impacts, which inand land-use issues
turn will allow us to better plan and prepare ourcommunity.
The following initiatives are a step-by-step approach to build upon our current programs and successes, and turn science
into action.
1. Track local and regional climate change indicators and trends• Track local and regional indicators and trends such as sea level rise, temperature, precipitation and tropical storms• Conduct a pilot project to assess the feasibility of using existing monitoring efforts and determine if the information
can be used as vital signs of climate change• Develop consensus-based graphic communication tools from the pilot project, reporting the monitoring data suchas maps, bar graphs, and “stoplights”• Develop a working group to analyze potential climate change related to public health impacts (for example infectious
disease changes and heat related illness)• Report periodically on the status of climate change indicators and trends
2. Develop local and regional climate change scenarios depicting various impacts and time frames• Develop local and regional sea level rise scenario maps
• Develop planning maps and tools for Miami-Dade County based on consensus of Southeast Florida Climate Change
Compact (Compact) planning scenarios

M i a m i - D a d e

C o u n t y• Continue existing local surface water, ground water and salt water intrusion modeling projects, incorporating
expected climate change impacts (i.e. changes in temperature, precipitation, sea level rise, etc.) and integratingwith regional water modeling projects from the District and other South Florida Climate Change Compact partners
3. Integrate future climate change impacts into community and government decision-making for capital,
operational, and land-use issues• Analyze sea level rise scenario maps to model buildable/livable footprints and correlate economic scenarios• Examine the implications of sea level rise on vulnerable facilities (i.e. solid waste facilities, and water and wastewater
utilities)• Develop mechanisms for organizations to integrate potential climate change impacts into capital and operational
decision-making• Continue to implement the Stormwater Master Plan
Southeast Florida is experiencing events that we can and should use to help us move forward in our understanding andplanning for potential climate change impacts. While global climate change cannot be attributed to any one of these
events, the longer-term threat to the region is clear. We must take advantage of the experience and knowledge gleaned
from each extreme weather event to make our community more resilient to climate change. By informing ongoingplanning and management efforts with the best available climate projections, programs such as hazard mitigation,
floodplain management, and water resources management can pursue win-win strategies that accomplish multiple goals
through coordinated cost-effective actions. We can also pursue a practical approach to climate adaptation by prioritizing
actions that can reduce current exposure to hazard losses as well as addressing future vulnerabilities. These actions reap
significant current and near-term benefits regardless of how the long-term scenarios unfold. By taking science, knowledge
and experience to action, we ensure a more resilient future for our community.

III. Climate Change Mitigation Plan – Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Our Baseline and Reduction Targets
This portion of the Climate Change Action Plan (CAP) rolls up all the goal area initiatives that reduce or avoid GHGs. Any
responsible community must realize that it is equally important to maintain and even increase efforts to mitigate, or
reduce GHGs while moving forward with adaptation planning. Miami-Dade County has long been a recognized leader
in its commitment to reduce GHGs and has implemented numerous programs and policies over the years. This includes
implementation of programs such as the Long-term CO2 Reduction Plan, creation of the Climate Change Advisory Task
Force (CCATF), membership in the Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX) pilot program, participation in the U.S. Cool Counties
Program, and the joint establishment of the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact. GreenPrint will build
upon this foundation by expanding upon the success of existing programs, identifying new opportunities, and leveraging
these new opportunities with additional resources.
As one of the first participants in ICLEI’s Cities for Climate Protection, Miami-Dade County has completed all five milestones
and therefore has extensive experience in developing and implementing a formal climate mitigation program. By signing
onto the Cool Counties Climate Stabilization Declaration in 2008, the County renewed its commitment and agreed to theterms of, “creating an inventory of county government (operational) GHG emissions and implementing policies, programs
and operations to achieve significant, measurable and sustainable reduction of operational GHG emissions” in order to “helpcontribute to the regional reduction targets of 80 percent below current [2008] levels by 2050.”

g r e e n P R I N TMiami-Dade County Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Business as Usual Versus Reduction Targets
70
60

Emissions(million mt CO2e)50
40

33.7M mt CO2e
28.9M mt CO2e30
2025.7M mt CO2e
6.43M mt CO2e

10
0
2005

2010

2015

2020

2025

2030

2035

2040

2045

2050

2055

Year
Cool Counties Emissions Reductions Target(80 percent below 2008 by 2050)

Projected Emissions from all Community-wide
Business as Usual Activities (BAU)

This graph illustrates the gap between doing nothing (business as usual) versus
making aggressive changes to the way we operate. The GreenPrint initiatives
begin to address the gap.

Miami-Dade County 2005 Community-wide
Emissions Inventory by Community Sector
Industrial
3%

Waste
4%

Residential
25%

Transportation
43%

Commercial
25%
30.7 Million Metric Tons of CO2eThis chart illustrates total community-wide GHG. Clearly transportation,commercial and residential sectors are major contributors with significant
potential for reductions.

M i a m i - D a d e

C o u n t yThis will be achieved by developing a GHG
emissions inventory and regional plan that
establishes short, mid, and long-term GHG
reduction targets, with recommended goals
to stop increasing emissions by 2010, andto achieve a 10 percent reduction every five
years thereafter through 2050. The CCATF
evaluated the Cool Counties commitment
and recommended a countywide reduction
goal of 20 percent below 2008 emission
levels by the year 2020. In order to meetthe estimated 2015 emissions target of
28.9 million metric tons of carbon dioxide
equivalents (mt CO2e), we would need toreduce emissions by approximately 6.8
million mt CO2e at the end of this first fiveyear phase of GreenPrint. Although theCounty has been taking steps to reduce
GHG since the early 1990’s, these newcommitments will require us to significantly
enhance our efforts, both community-wide
and internally.

As one of the first steps in this renewed
commitment,
Miami-Dade
Countyestablished a community-wide GHG
baseline for calendar year 2005; anestimated 30.7 million mt CO2e. County
staff also calculated an emissions baseline
for our internal operations, which totaled
approximately 983,000 mt CO2e, orabout three percent of community-wide
emissions. Emissions are converted to CO2e
based on their 100-year global warming
potential using ICLEI’s Clean Air and Climate
Protection (CACP) software. The adjacentchart shows the overall community
GHG emissions from energy use, broken
down by community sectors, as in the
CACP software. The emissions under thisumbrella include all emission sources, both
mobile and stationary. Emissions from thewaste sector are primarily due to methane(CH4) released from the landfills, which isapproximately 21 times more potent as a
GHG than carbon dioxide (CO2). The County
will measure progress in its emission
reduction efforts from both the overall
community-wide baseline and the internal
government operations baseline. Before
proceeding with the discussion of emission
reduction efforts, it is helpful to define how
a few terms will be used.

Direct versus Indirect Emissions
Direct emissions are emissions produced from sources within the boundary of an organization and as a result of theorganization’s activities; in other words, direct emissions are from sources that are under a particular organization’sownership and control. For example, the power company that generates electricity in a coal-fired power plant is a direct
emitter.
The businesses that purchase the electricity, however, are indirect emitters. Indirect emissions are emissions generated in
the wider economy as a consequence of an organization’s activities, but occur at sources that are owned or controlled byanother organization. Indirect emissions should not be confused with indirect impacts, which are impacts that may not
immediately result in emission reductions, but rather impact them indirectly such as, codifying the sustainability planning
process and creating a formal leadership structure for GreenPrint implementation.
In any case, all direct (on-site, internal) and indirect emissions (off-site, external, embodied, upstream and downstream)need to be taken into account when looking at the big picture.

Emission Impacts Defined
There are three types of emission impacts referenced in GreenPrint:
1. Emissions Reductions - Decreases in emissions resulting from cutting emissions that are measured in Miami-Dade
County’s community-wide baseline (think decreasing electricity purchases);
2. Emissions Offsets - Project-based emission reductions made outside the scope of the baseline used to counterbalanceor compensate for emissions from other activities (think forest carbon sequestration);
3. Emissions Avoided - Emissions that are prevented from ever occurring through the implementation of a project orprogram (think carpooling, which takes cars off the road, “avoiding” emissions from those cars).
While “direct” emission reductions directly decrease the GHG footprint of Miami-Dade County, “offsets” and “avoided”
emissions also help the cause. The explanations below help explain how.

Miami-Dade County Emissions Reductions
Reductions are direct cuts in emissions that reflect decreases in energy or fuel consumption relative to a baseline year.
Emission reductions come primarily from reduced and more efficient use of fuel as well as increased energy efficiency andconservation in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. An example of this is the initiative to reduce electricity
use in internal County operations by 20 percent of 2007 levels by the year 2014. To achieve this goal, we might retrofit
buildings to improve their energy performance and thus reduce their resultant emissions. It is important to note, however,that efficiency does not always result in emission reductions. For example, if we replace a fleet of conventional vehicles
with their hybrid counterparts that are 25 percent more fuel efficient, we will achieve emission reductions. However, if
we supplement our existing vehicle fleet with hybrid vehicles, despite the increased efficiency, the net impact will be
increased emissions. In order to achieve real emission reductions, we must reduce below emission levels in our baseline
year. This requires accounting for growth by increasing efficiency in baseline operations. This is a difficult task, since theCounty has experienced tremendous population growth over the past several decades, and projections show this trend
will continue. A way of reconciling this is to also track emission reductions per capita, a useful metric by which to measureprogress toward our emission reduction goals. This frames emission reductions in terms relative to growth rather than inabsolute terms.

Miami-Dade County Emissions Offsets
Emissions offsets are produced by mitigation projects that sequester, destroy or reduce GHGs. Every active or proposed
GHG cap-and-trade program worldwide includes a role for project-based emission reduction credits or offsets. Mitigation
projects must meet eligibility standards and undergo independent verification before they can be issued tradable offsets
in recognized trading systems. While each project type has its own set of criteria, the defining requirement for offset
projects is that they are practice-changing, or go beyond business as usual. Miami-Dade County is currently exploring
quantification of offsets from carbon sequestration in trees in our Environmentally Endangered Lands program.

g r e e n P R I N T

In order to determine the best
strategies to employ to reduce
emissions, it is important to look at
the emissions data from a different
perspective. When the 2005 emissions
baseline is viewed by end-use, as in
the adjacent figure, it is apparent
that electricity and transportation
are by far the greatest contributors
to community-wide emissions, at 49
percent and 43 percent respectively.
The small remaining components
shown for residential, industrial andcommercial sectors in this chart arefrom other fossil fuels such as coal andnatural gas.

In the context of GreenPrint, we are using
the term “emissions avoided” to capture theemissions not produced over the life of a
project’s implementation, and in instanceswhere it may be complex to predict emission
reductions.

120
100
80
60
40
20

Year 7

Year 6

Year 5

Year 4

Year 3

Year 2Hybrid Fleet Replaces
Conventional Fleet0
Baseline (Conventional
Vehicle Fleet)

Time
Avoided Emissions

Emission Reductions

Net Emissions

When replacing a fleet of conventional vehicles with their hybrid
counterparts that are 25 percent more fuel efficient, after the first year,
emissions will be reduced for the fleet by 25 percent. In future years
until the end of product’s useful life, no further reductions will beaccomplished. Instead, emissions will be avoided annually.

When emission reducing activities are initially
put in place, we will see emission reductions,which will count toward our reduction target.
By calculating avoided emissions for thelife of a project, we can track the emissions
that would have otherwise occurred had
the project not been implemented. To use
the example cited above, if we replace afleet of conventional vehicles with theirhybrid counterparts that are 25 percent
more fuel efficient, after the first year, we
will have reduced emissions for that fleet by
25 percent. In future years, we will continue
realizing those reductions but they will not
reduce our net emissions any further. By
replacing the conventional vehicles, however,
we are avoiding emissions that would haveotherwise taken place. A reasonable time to
track avoidable emissions is over a product’s
useful life. For example, the useful life of avehicle might be seven years.

We can also use avoided emissions to calculate the positive benefits of increasing public transit. While deploying moretrains and buses increases overall fuel use, its net impact can be expected to reduce personal vehicle miles traveled, andthus have a positive impact on emissions management overall. While we may not be able to predict or estimate emissions
reduced from this type of project, we can develop a measurement for emissions avoided by increasing ridership.

Million People Tons per Person

According to FPL, in 2005, 19 percent of its energy came from nuclear power, 42 percent from natural gas, 17 percent fromoil and five percent from coal. The remaining 17 percent is purchased power. Because it is difficult to know the emissions
associated with the purchased power, which is a significant portion of FPL’s energy mix, Miami-Dade County uses verified
default emission values from the Southeastern Electric Reliability Council that are integrated into ICLEI’s CACP software, as
opposed to the factors published by FPL that have not yet been verified by a third party.

C o u n t yCommercial
1%
Industrial
1%
Residential
2%

Consumption ofggasoline and diesel

Waste
4%

Transportation
43%
30.7 Million Metric Tons of CO2eThis chart illustrates that electricity use and transportation are the largest
sources of GHG and provide the greatest opportunities for reductions.

70

3,500

60

3,000

50

2,500

40

2,000

30

1,500

20

1,000

10

500

0

New York City

Miami-Dade
CountyTotal Emissions (MMTCO2e)

M i a m i - D a d e

Consumption ofelectricity fromenergy utility

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Comparison by City

Our Electricity Source
Florida Power and Light (FPL) is the principal provider of electricity for Miami-Dade County. Two FPL power plants lie within
Miami-Dade County boundary. Turkey Point, located on Biscayne Bay, holds two nuclear power units and is also an oil andgas facility. The 2,337.5 megawatt (MW) plant has the capacity to meet the annual electricity needs of more than 450,000
homes. Cutler Ridge, an oil and gas plant, has a considerably smaller capacity of 236.5 MW (FPL). Homestead Electric,a municipal-owned utility, also serves Miami-Dade County, but supplies less than one percent of its electricity. In 2008,
219.6 million megawatt hours (MWh) were consumed in the State of Florida, approximately 27.3 million of which wereused by Miami-Dade County homes, businesses and government operations (United States. Dept. of Energy. EIA, Florida
Electricity Profile n.pag.). Thus, Miami-Dade’s electricity consumption represented roughly 12.5 percent of Florida’s total
consumption, while its residents accounted for about 13.5 percent of the state population.

Electricity
49%

Consumption ofliquid petrol,
natural gas and coal

From yet another perspective, we see
our overall emissions are not as highas some of our peer communities, but
our per capita emissions are higher
than several of those communities.
Our opportunity and our challenge
is to achieve significant emissions
reductions through changes inelectricity and personal vehicle use.

Million Metric Tons CO2e

Emissions (Percent)

Where should we focus?

Miami-Dade County Emissions
AvoidedCity ofLos Angeles

Population (millions)

City of
Chicago

City of
DenverLondonPer Capita Emissions (tons)

Square Miles

Graphical Representation of Emission Reductions
and Avoideances Over Useful Life of a Vehicle

Miami-Dade County CY 2005 Community-wide
Emissions Inventory by Consumption
Source and Sector

The graph depicts
emissions totals forfive major cities andMiami-Dade County.
While our GHG arelower than several
cities depicted,
our non-compact
development patterncontributes to a
relatively high per
capita GHG.

0

Area (sq mi)g r e e n P R I N T

A New Normal

The Role of Strong Leadership, Connections and Commitment

Although the recent downturn in the economy has caused much hardship nationwide, it does present a clear opportunity
to begin to move the needle towards efficiency and sustainability. A tougher economy has forced behavior changes todecrease spending, increase savings and shift from gross consumerism to a more frugal lifestyle. Our community has seen
obvious indications of this as reflected in a downward trend in the amount of waste in our solid waste management system,
lower fuel emissions in our fleet, and increased ridership in our public transportation system during periods of higher fuelprices. The challenge and opportunity is to take advantage of an otherwise negative situation and allow it to become the
new normal. How do we as a society and as a government avoid the temptation to grow, build, and pollute to the levelsof just a few years ago? How do we manage growth, consume only what we need, conserve water and energy and recycle
more? GreenPrint is our action plan to do so.

GreenPrint Goal Area Initiatives with Emission Reduction Impacts
The following is a discussion of the GreenPrint goal
area initiatives that specifically contribute towards
our climate mitigation goals and efforts, either
directly or indirectly. As can be seen here, Water
and Energy Efficiency and Responsible Land Useand Smart Transportation are the two goal areasthat contribute the greatest estimated emissions
reductions towards the reduction target, followed
by Vibrant Economy and Strong Leadership,
Connections and Commitment. It is important
to note that some of these initiatives will not be
underway until the second or third year of this first
five-year plan, while others may take several years
to begin realizing emission-reduction benefits.
As a result, we expect emissions benefits fromsome initiatives will increase significantly during
subsequent phases of the long-term GreenPrint
Plan, particularly if additional resources are invested
to leverage these initial gains.

GreenPrint Goal Area Emission Reductions & Avoidance Summary(mt CO2e)Emission
Avoidances

Leadership, Connections &Commitment

17,00026,000

Water & Energy Efficiency

574,000

2,030,000

Our Environment

19,90066,200

Responsible Land Use & Smart
Transportation

532,000

608,000

Vibrant Economy

326,000

326,000

TOTAL

1,470,000

3,050,000

Goal Area

Emission Reductions(mt CO2e)

Greenhouse Gas Emission Reductions by GreenPrint Goal Area
37.0

Strong Leadership, Connections, and Commitment are invaluable elements of the economic, environmental, and social
pillars that comprise sustainability. Decision-making by leaders in public and private organizations plays a critical role inensuring a lasting high quality of life for our residents and visitors. While most of the strategies and initiatives grouped within
this goal area have considerable benefits and are connected to other goal areas, many of the emission-reduction benefits
are indirect. However, leadership and commitment are the driving forces that will result in the initiatives that produce
measureable benefits in the future.

Strategy: Be green government role models
This strategy focuses on leadership initiatives that leverage a broad jurisdictional influence to promote sustainability
and reduce GHGs. Miami-Dade County is large in geographic size and population and has expertise in natural resourcesmanagement, emergency management, public health, transportation, construction, and sustainability. As a result, MiamiDade County elected officials and administrators can work with partners of public policy at local, regional, state and federal
levels. Since many of the County’s regulations and policies have countywide jurisdiction, the County is uniquely positioned towork with municipalities to impact local on-the-ground activities that could lead the entire community toward sustainability.
The Climate Change Connection
At this time, we can calculate emissions benefits for the last initiative in this strategy, which is to adopt an existing draft
County Ordinance (per Resolution R468-06) requiring water efficiency retrofits at point of home resale (prior to changing
ownership) and later update the ordinance to require additional retrofits focusing on energy efficiency. The purpose ofthis initiative would be to accelerate community-wide water and energy efficiency. Energy conservation retrofits would
include home energy uses that are not currently covered by Florida’s Energy Code, such as pool pumps, since these uses now
account for more than 55 percent of home energy use.
In assessing the GHG emissions impact of point-of-sale home efficiency retrofits, staff used methodology and assumptions
that are further detailed in Appendix A. For illustrative purposes, two years of reductions are estimated within the five
year time frame of our first GreenPrint plan. During this time, energy efficiency per household may increase by 17 percent,potentially resulting in 17,000 metric tons of GHG emissions reductions and 25,000 metric tons of GHG emissions avoided.
Implementing this ordinance will affect almost one percent of all home energy consumption in just this short time period.
The impact of this initiative should continue to grow over the years.

TargetResidential Emissions Projections

36.0

33.0
32.0

Vibrant Economy(326,000 mt)

31.0
30.0

Land
Use/Transportation(532,000 mt)

28.0
27.0
2011

2015

Year

C o u n t y

Water & Energy
Efficiency(574,000 mt)(million mt CO2e)

Emissions

Environment(19,900 mt)

Total Annual Emissions
for residential customers

34.0

29.0

M i a m i - D a d e

8.0

Leadership(17,000 mt)

35.0(million mt CO2e)This chart shows how
quantifiable GreenPrint
initiatives contribute to the2015 ten percent reduction
target established through the
Cool Counties commitment.
These are the initial steps on
a 40-year path to the 2050
target. It is anticipated that the
impact will be accelerated inlater years.

The initiatives in the Strong Leadership,
Connections and Commitment Goal Area
reduce emissions by 17,000 mt CO2e andavoid 26,000 mt CO2e.

Strong Leadership, Connections and Commitment Strategies
Contributing to Climate Action Plan Mitigation Efforts• Be green government role models

7.5This graph illustrates potential
impacts from requiring energy
retrofits at the time of home sales.
Clearly, increasing sales would
result in higher energy savings andlead to greater emission reductions.
As home sales and retrofits remain
consistent, our emissions are
reduced to a new normal.

7.0

6.5

6.0

5.5
1995

1997

1999

2001

2003

2005

2007

2009

2011

2013

2015

Year
Historical
5% Reduction Forecast

New Home Code Only
10% Reduction Forecast

g r e e n P R I N T

The Role of Water and Energy Efficiency
The relationship between the water sector and the energy sector is complex and highly interdependent. Water treatment
and delivery, as well as wastewater treatment, are primarily dependent on electricity, along with other energy sources.
These energy sources in Miami-Dade are all significantly fossil-fuel based and therefore, as highlighted earlier, energy
and water use contribute heavily to GHG emissions. As water demand grows, so grows energy demand. Since population
growth drives demand for both resources, water and energy demand follow similar growth rates. Saving a unit of water
reduces the amount of energy used and the GHG generated to collect, treat, deliver, consume, treat, and dispose of it aswastewater. Therefore, every gallon of water saved translates to a GHG emission reduction.
The Climate Change Connection
In Miami-Dade County it is estimatedthat producing one million gallons
of potable water uses approximately
1,203 kWh, 46.4 therms of natural
gas and 10.7 gallons of diesel, whichtranslates into 1.03 mt CO2e.

Water and Energy Strategies Contributing to Climate Change Action
Plan Mitigation Efforts• Reduce energy and water consumption through increasing efficiency• Improve energy planning through public-private partnerships• Continue Water and Energy efficiency and conservation campaigns• Expand alternative fuel (biodiesel/waste-based biodiesel) andrenewable energy industries• Be government leaders in energy, fuel, and water efficiency

In addition, energy demand in thewater sector will likely increase overtime due to a number of factors,
including population and urban
load growth; increased water and wastewater treatment due to more stringent water quality regulations; and market,
economic, regulatory, and legislative changes. By continuing to implement GreenPrint, Miami-Dade County will be on theway to stabilizing GHG emissions from potable water production.
The initiatives in the Water and Energy Efficiency Goal Area reduce emissions by 574,000 mt CO2e and avoid
2,030,000 mt CO2e

Percentage Breakdown of Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reductions
for Initiatives within the Water and Energy Efficiency Goal Area
MDC
EnergyMaster Plan
14.81%

Efficiency
Campaigns
33.12%MDC Fuel Reducon
4.36%

Innovave Financing
2.63%

Water Retrofits for MDC facilies0.003%MDC Hybrids Sedans and Buses
0.69%

Other
7.10%

EECBG projects
7.49%

Energy Alliance33.12%

M i a m i - D a d e

MDC Hybrid Garbage Trucks
0.51%

Efficient Development
0.44%

MDC Aviaon Diesel Fuel Pipeline
0.037%
Water Use Efficiency
2.79%

Initiatives under the Water and Energy Efficiency goal area are projected
to reduce GHG emissions by a total of 574,000 mt CO2e. The graph above
represents the contribution of each initiative towards the total on apercentage basis.

C o u n t yStrategy: Reduce water and energy consumption through increasing efficiency
This strategy is a collection of four initiatives that address community efficiency and conservation of electricity and water:water use efficiency, efficient development, federal Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) projects, andinnovative financing. These initiatives include measures intended to achieve high levels of energy efficiency in new homes
and buildings, as well as existing buildings undergoing substantial renovation. Our biggest challenges and opportunities
to achieve energy efficiency lie within the existing building stock. Enforcing the Florida Energy Code and implementing
recommended alterations to the existing code and permitting process in Miami-Dade County, will help ensure that all
new construction and substantial rehabilitation projects will achieve energy and water savings that extend over the lifeof the building. In addition, this strategy extends and builds upon existing successful water conservation initiatives that
reduce GHG emissions related to water use by 16,000 mt CO2e. In summary, when implemented, the initiatives under
this strategy will result in projected emissions reductions of 76,630 mt CO2e over the five-year GreenPrint period andavoidances of 1.45 million mt CO2e.
Strategy: Improve energy planning through public-private partnerships
The opportunities for using energy more sustainably in our County are great, but collaboration among sectors is essential
to seizing them. The adage “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts” is relevant to the approach our community takes
in regard to energy management. Responsible management of energy is as much a societal challenge as it is economic
and political. Florida’s per capita residential electricity demand is among the highest in the country, due in great part tohigh air-conditioning use, particularly during hot summer months. Much of this energy is used wastefully; buildings areoften shockingly cold. Retailers invite tourists to peruse their shops and restaurants with open doors that exude a frigid
draft. Practices will have to change if residents are to change the patterns of our energy use.
An alliance made up of a diverse group of stakeholders can address these complex challenges across sectors and canidentify market-based solutions. Whether it launches awareness campaigns, finances building retrofits, or coordinates
rebate programs, an alliance can create community-wide programs that reduce and conserve energy and natural resources,
achieving important emissions reductions. In addition, an alliance can create linkages with other existing organizations
that focus on efficiency and GHG reduction, such as the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA). The alliancewill seek to broaden the uptake of energy efficiency retrofit projects, and therefore it is estimated to reduce 190,000 mt
CO2e and avoid 305,000 mt CO2e.
Strategy: Continue energy and water efficiency
and conservation campaigns
While great emphasis is placed on new fuels andtechnologies, it is critical to realize that efficiency andconservation are proven to be the simplest and mostcost-effective ways to achieve reductions today. If
our community wants to save energy and water,
it is important that our residents become aware of
the resources they consume, and ways to reduce
their consumption. Simple changes in behavior canquickly lead to significant energy and water savings.
While it is well known that saving energy and water
is a good thing, people are also often motivated byopportunities to save money. Through water andenergy efficiency and conservation campaigns,
County residents and business owners are challenged
and empowered with the tools to reduce theirconsumption and their utility bills, through a series
workshops, saving challenges, rebates, retrofits andexchanges. Participating residents can see the costs
associated with energy and water go down while
protecting energy and water resources. Overall thisstrategy has the potential to reduce 190,000 mt CO2e
and avoid 305,000 mt CO2e.

g r e e n P R I N T

Because all renewable and alternative fuels are
not the same, new fuels should be analyzed toensure that they are sustainably sourced andhave net environmental benefits. To estimate
the impacts of renewable and alternative fuels
on GHG emissions, the entire fuel lifecycle
including fossil fuel extraction or feedstock
growth, fuel production, distribution, andcombustion should be evaluated.

Emissions Impact Benefitsof Miami-Dade County Operations Initiatives
from the Water and Energy Efficiency Goal Area
400,000
350,000

This is a graphical depiction of
the emissions reductions andavoidances associated withCounty-specific Water andEnergy initiatives. These are new
initiatives that will build upon
existing and recurring efforts.

MDC Hybrid Garbage Trucks

M i a m i - D a d e

C o u n t y

250,000

MDC Hybrids Sedans andBuses

200,000

MDC Fuel Reduction

150,000

Water Retrofits for MDC
facilities
MDC Energy Master Plan

100,000
50,0000No emissions reductions were calculated
for this strategy; however, it is clear that bydisplacing the use of fossil fuels, vast GHG
emissions reductions can potentially beachieved.

Reductions

Fuel Emissionsof County Government Operations
Chicago Climate Exchange

Emissions Impact Benefitsof Community-wide Initiatives from theWater and Energy Efficiency Goal Area

350,000
309,867

300,000

3,000,000

Energy Alliance

2,000,000

Innovative Financing

1,500,000

EECBG projects
Efficient Development

1,000,000

Water Use Efficiency

500,000
Initiatives pertaining toCounty Operations

0
Reductions

Annual Emissions
mt CO2

Efficiency Campaigns

2,500,000

mt CO2eStrategy: Be government leaders in energy,
fuel, and water efficiency
This strategy is a collection of 10 initiatives that
address conservation of electricity, fuel and waterin Miami-Dade County government operations.
This strategy contains initiatives that build on
current successes such as collecting energyrelated data and reporting emissions. For example,
when the CCX pilot program for direct emissions
ends, the County will continue to collect data andreport these emissions related to government
operations. This will ensure continued leadershipin the area of energy, fuel and water efficiency.
This strategy area also contains new initiatives
such as developing and implementing agovernment energy efficiency master plan. In
many cases these initiatives involve developing
new procedures and intensive data gatheringthat enable the County to identify operations
that use the most resources; this information
will then be used to prioritize future actions to
reduce energy and water consumption evenmore and in a cost-effective manner. Initiatives
that facilitate new procedures or expanded useof technological solutions will be assessed toensure net sustainability benefits. Overall these
initiatives will reduce GHG emissions by 117,128
mt CO2e and avoid 355,000 mt CO2e.

MDC Aviation Diesel Fuel
Pipeline

300,000

mt CO2eStrategy: Expand alternative fuel (biodiesel/waste-based biodiesel) and renewable energy industries
As stated earlier, the most accessible and cost-effective way to reduce water and energy consumption is through efficiency
and conservation initiatives. Keeping this in mind, initiatives within this strategy take the next step by encouraging theuse of renewable energy sources that can provide overall sustainability benefits to our community: sustainably-sourced
biodiesel (including waste-based biodiesel) and renewable energy. The use of these non-traditional energy sources canbe accelerated through the deployment of technology and building local infrastructure. Since the State of Florida does
not have a renewable portfolio standard, and our community is not aggressively pursuing distributed solar installations(decentralized solar electricity generation) or energy-efficiency (except for peak-demand management), initiatives under
this strategy address the need to incentivize the market for renewable energy. Because the first step to renewable energy
deployment is to perform energy efficiency retrofits (to avoid oversizing systems which worsens performance and increases
costs), this should stimulate the energy efficiency market as well.

250,000

303,501
267,089

248,714200,000
150,000
100,000

The adjacent chart shows datafrom the Chicago Climate
Exchange (CCX) Program, one of
Miami-Dade County’s ongoing
initiatives for tracking andreducing direct fuel emissions
resulting from government
operations. In this case, data
was collected and emissions
calculated according to CCX
protocol. While CCX targets havenot been met, the trend is in theright direction.

50,0000Annual Total Direct
Emissions (mt CO2)
CY 2000

Annual Total Direct
Emissions (mt CO2)
CY 2007

Annual Total Direct
Emissions (mt CO2)
CY 2008

Annual Total Direct
Emissions (mt CO2)
CY 2009

Avoidances
Reported Emissions (mt CO2)This is a graphical depiction of the emissions reductions andavoidances associated with Water and Energy initiatives. The bulkof initiatives will provide greater impact beyond the GreenPrint
2015 timeline.

Avoidances

Reductions Targets (mt CO2)

Miami-Dade reduced
its fuel-related directemissions by 42,778
metric tons of CO2
from 2007 to 2009.

g r e e n P R I N T

Furthering Emissions Reductions
The strategies and initiatives to reduce energy and water use are, in almost every case, supportive of the GreenPrint Climate
Action Plan’s mission. By using energy and water more efficiently and more conservatively, we realize GHG emission
reduction benefits. It is important to keep in mind that the projected GHG emission reductions are estimates based onrealistic goals achievable within a foreseeable timeframe. In almost all cases, the potential for GHG emission reductions are
greater than the plan reflects; some of them may increase exponentially after the first five years. Further reductions can beachieved by increasing financial investments in the initiatives, developing broader marketing plans, and adopting policies
that enable greater participation in programs.

Forecast Scenario for Miami-Dade County Residential Sector
Emissions Projections due to Electricity Consumption
Total Annual Emissions
Total Annual Emissions
for residential customers
for residential customers

8.0
7.5

(million mt CO2e)

Forecast Scenario for Miami-Dade County Residential Sector
7.0
Emissions
Projections due to Electricity Consumption
8.0
6.5(million mt CO2e)

7.5
6.0
7.0
5.5
1995

1997

1999

2001

2003

2007

2009

2011

2013

2015

Year

6.5

Historical
5% Reduction Forecast

6.0
5.5
1995

2005

1997

1999

2001

2003

2005

2007

New Home Code Only
10% Reduction Forecast

2009

2011

2013

2015

These figures show additional emissions reductions
Year based on electricity forecast
for the residential and commercial sector if customers opt to improve existing
Forecast
Scenario
Miami-Dade
CountyCommercial
Sectorbuildings
five percentfor
or tenpercent beyond
what
is requiredby theFloridaHistorical
New Home
CodeEnergy
Only
5% Reduction
Forecast
10%
Reduction
Forecast
Code,thus
resultinginmoreefficientbuildings.
As
depictedinthegraphs,more
Emissions Projections due to Electricity Consumption
aggressive reductions in energy consumption result in greater emission reductions.
Total Annual Emissions
Total Annual Emissions
for commercial customers
for commercial customers

9
8.5
8

(million mt CO2e)

Forecast Scenario
for Miami-Dade County Commercial Sector
7.5
Emissions
Projections due to Electricity Consumption
7
6.5
9(million mt CO2e)

6
8.5
5.5
8
1995
7.5

1997

1999

2001

2003

2005

2007

2009

2011

2013

2015

Year

7

Historical
5% Reduction Forecast

6.5

New Home Code Only
10% Reduction Forecast

6
5.5
1995

1997

1999

2001

2003

2005

2007

2009

2011

2013

2015

Year
Historical
5% Reduction Forecast

M i a m i - D a d e

C o u n t y

New Home Code Only
10% Reduction Forecast

This can be illustrated by examining thestrategy to incentivize energy efficientdevelopment. This initiative involves
increasing energy efficiency in existingbuildings and reaching total compliancewith the Florida Energy Code for new
construction. As a result of increasing
the energy efficiency of buildings, theirassociated emissions are also reduced. The
initiative milestones include: implementing
recommendations from the Sustainable
Code and Permitting Project (underway)
pertaining to sustainable development;
developing an incentive package such as
reduced impact fees, intensity bonuses,and expedited permitting for green
projects; developing a training program forbuilding inspectors in order to attain total
compliance with the Florida Energy Code;and marketing the program to property
owners through websites and educational
workshops. The projected emission
reductions are based on a participation of
350 residential projects and 150 commercial
renovation or expansion projects. Thesefigures show projections in the emissions
output of the average residential andcommercial electric utility customer at
different levels of energy performance. The
more customers that opt to participate, themore emissions will be reduced; likewise,
to the degree that the buildings are more
efficient than required by code, the more
emissions they reduce as a result.
Every initiative in the Water and Energy
Efficiency goal area is designed to bescalable and achieve greater GHG emissions
reductions than can be realized over the intial
five-year period. In meeting its GreenPrint
energy aspirational goal, emissions areprojected to be reduced by 7.1 million mt
CO2e. However, emissions reductions for the
Water and Energy Efficiency goal area are
estimated at 574,000 mt CO2e. While this isa first step toward meeting our reduction
targets, it is important to note that further
investments must be made in order toachieve County-adopted mandates.

The Role of Our Environment
Our Environment is critical for the well-being of our residents, our ecosystems, and our economy. Quality air, water, marine
resources, coastal habitats and wetlands are invaluable, and we work aggressively to improve and protect them. For
purposes of the GreenPrint Climate Change Action Plan, the strategies and initiatives generally do not result in significant
carbon emission decreases. Other sustainability benefits are numerous and tangible through storing and sequestering
carbon emissions and providing healthy and livable environments. Strategies that have a beneficial impact on carbon
storage, sequestration or emissions are included below.

Our Environment Strategies Contributing to Climate Action Plan Mitigation Efforts• Implement wastewater reuse to provide future water supply and benefit the environment• Protect environmental and other lands important for ecosystem and community resilience• Protect, enhance, and restore our natural resources• Develop a sustainable Solid Waste System and Master Plan, using waste to benefit our
economy and environment

The initiatives in Our Environment Goal Area reduce emissions by 19,900 mt CO2e and avoid 66,200 mt CO2e.

Strategy: Implement wastewater reuse toprovide future water supply and benefit theenvironment
This strategy includes initiatives to implement
water reuse projects to recharge the Biscayne
Aquifer and a pilot study to rehydrate wetlands
and Biscayne Bay. As highlighted in the Water andEnergy Efficiency goal area, water conservationand efficiency efforts have been successful andmay even result in the postponement of planned
wastewater reuse projects. Wastewater reuseprojects have a clear long-term sustainability
focus: preserving our drinking water supply
in light of projected population increases
and for ecosystem needs. On the other hand,wastewater reuse operations require moreenergy than current treatment. As illustrated in
the next figure, these increased energy needs
are significantly less than the alternative optionof desalination. In fact, it is estimated thatseawater desalination could use over 10 times
the energy as reclaimed waste water (Cooley,
Gleik, and Wolf ).

g r e e n P R I N TEmissions Impact Comparison of Wastewater Reuse to Desalination
70

Emissions (million mt CO2e)60
Potenal Emissions Impact ofDesalinaon

50

Projected Emissions Impact ofWastewater Reuse Operaons

40
30

Cool Counes Emissions Reducons
Target (80% below 2008 by 2050)

20

Projected Emissions from allcommunitywide Business as Usualacvies (BAU)

10
0
2000

2010

2020

2030

2040

2050

2060

Year

The above figure illustrates that increased emissions associated with wastewater reuse operations are significantly lessthan the alternative option of desalination.

Strategy: Protect environmental and other lands that may be important for ecosystem and community resilience
This strategy contains initiatives to acquire environmentally valuable lands and explore alternative funding sources
through a carbon offset program. The Environmentally Endangered Lands (EEL) Program was established in 1990 througha countywide referendum that approved a two-year tax increase to acquire, restore and maintain environmentallyendangered lands. Acquisition ensures that these lands are shielded from development and will continue to thrive as
natural habitats. Current acquisitions exceed 20,000 acres and include rockridge pinelands, tropical hardwood hammocks,
freshwater wetlands, coastal wetlands and scrub habitat.
The Climate Change Connection
By adopting a precautionary approach that maximizes the amount of open land retained over time, opportunities to adapt
to the effects of climate change are preserved over the long term. Preservation of these lands also provides considerable
carbon storage and sequestration value. The following table illustrates this value for current and future acquisitions. Raising
additional revenue through a carbon offset program would extend the sustainability of the current trust fund which covers
both purchases and management. Determining the potential revenue stream associated with such a program will be
explored within year one of the GreenPrint Implementation Plan.

The retention of natural and open land provides many critical public services such as replenishing
drinking water supplies, greater flexibility in protecting against saltwater intrusion, contributing to theimplementation of regional restoration efforts, conserving native wildlife and habitats, and providing
recreational space. Open and undeveloped lands, whether currently under some mechanism of protection
or not, offer the greatest opportunities to provide for adaptation to the effects of climate change.

Benefits of Environmentally Endangered Lands for Carbon Storage and Sequestration
Environmentally Endangered Lands(acres)Acres

Total Carbon Stored(Metric Tons)

Total Yearly Accumulation
Carbon (Metric Tons)

EEL-owned lands

20,0004,756,287.9

9,226.05

EEL-managed lands

2,800

268,501.2

2,108.6

22,8005,024,789.1

11,334.65

17,538.1

4,004,351.7

8,216.8

Total
Remaining acres to be acquired

Sources: (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, National Council for Air and Stream Improvement andthe United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service, South Florida Water Management District)

The table above demonstrates the existing carbon storage and annual sequestration value we gain from preserving
environmentally endangered lands. It shows currently held lands as well as those that remain on the program acquisition list.
More than five million metric tons of carbon is currently stored due to the EEL program.

Strategy: Protect, enhance, and restore our natural resources
This strategy contains multiple natural resource sustainability initiatives contributing to each sustainability pillar. Natural
systems provide vital habitats for fish, wildlife, and tropical plant communities, including globally imperiled species.
These settings contribute to recreational and economic opportunities for residents and visitors. The beach dunes, reefs
and mangrove shoreline provide a buffer against costly storm erosion. Wetlands and other open lands are natural water
reserves, storing and filtering fresh water and recharging the aquifer. Air quality is generally reflective of vehicle emissions
and progressive pollution controls and has direct human health impacts. Air quality is frequently used when assessing
clean cities and countries.
The Climate Change Connection
Wetlands, forests, and submerged plant communities also sequester carbon, contributing to reduction in GHGs. Reducing
vehicle use directly reduces air pollution as well as carbon emissions. There is significant carbon sequestration value
in the initiatives to minimize the impact of development on natural resources and continue to enhance and restore
coastal habitats important to the health of Biscayne Bay. Wetlands and mangroves are protected in Miami-Dade County,
and many restoration projects include their creation or enhancement as well. Layers of soil and peat that make up the
mangrove substrate have a high carbon content of 10 percent or more. When disturbed, carbon is released back into theatmosphere, further contributing to increased carbon emissions (Ong).
Simply stated, undisturbed wetlands and mangroves are essential in capturing carbon. The existing acreage of wetlands
is estimated at more than 800,000 acres, storing more than 212 million metric tons of carbon. 451 acres of coastal habitat
have been enhanced by Miami-Dade County, and this number will grow to 535 acres within the GreenPrint timeframe.
Determining the existing acreage of coastal mangroves within these habitats will be determined during year one of theGreenPrint Implementation Plan.

The Benefits of Wetlands Preservation and Restoration for Carbon Storage and Sequestration
Approximate Existing Wetlands within
Miami-Dade County

Acres

Total Carbon Stored(Metric Tons)

Total Yearly Accumulation
Carbon (Metric Tons)

Existing wetlands (excluding EEL acres

129,617

31,945,266

54,553

Existing wetlands acres within
Everglades National Park wetlands

712,670

175,643,881

299,950

860,870

212,169,093

362,325reported in Table 1)

Total

The table above demonstrates the existing carbon storage and annual sequestration value we gain from preserving
estimated existing wetlands. It is estimated that more than 212 million metric tons of carbon is currently stored.

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g r e e n P R I N TStrategy: Develop a sustainable Solid Waste System and Master Plan, using waste to benefit our economy andenvironment
An essential component of Our Environment is the management of the resources we use. The amount and type of waste
generated by a community - and the strategies employed to manage or treat that waste - contribute to human health, theenvironment, land use and economic development. The initiatives within this strategy include developing a sustainable
Solid Waste Master Plan, using waste and landfill gas as energy, composting and recycling.

Decreasing the distances between where people live, work, play, and shop will reduce driving distances and perhaps
avoid some automobile trips altogether. The figure below illustrates that the personal automobile will continue to be thegreatest contributor to CO2e emissions (10 metric tons/year), following the completion of transportation projects planned
and funded through 2015 (MPO, “Emissions Scenarios”). The breakdown of trips by purpose from the U.S. Department ofTransportation estimates that most trips are not work-related, but are trips that are shorter and personal, such as errands
and shopping. Therefore, achieving more compact development in urban and suburban settings would make a great
impact on reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) on the system (Urban Land Institute 5).

The Climate Change Connection
Currently, the County converts waste to energy (WTE). In FY 2008-09, this equaled 304,098,000 kWh, enough electricity topower approximately 21,000 homes. This amount offsets CO2 emissions that would have been generated by the electricutility. Since this is an existing operation, it will not count directly towards any emission reductions within the GreenPrint
planning timeframe. However, the Solid Waste Master Plan may result in WTE increases or decreases that would impact thequantity of emissions as compared to alternative options.
Community-wide and Residential Recycling
As a community, we recycled approximately 21 percent of the waste stream in 2009, according to the State of Florida
recycling rate methodology. This includes the County’s residential curbside recycling program, the conversion of yard
trash into biomass fuel, the extraction of metals from garbage at the WTE plant, and the collection of white goods. It also
includes municipal recycling programs and private sector recycling efforts. Miami-Dade County has conducted residential
recycling since 1994. In 2008, we transitioned from a dual to a single-stream program, increasing annual collection tonnage
by 88 percent.
In assessing the GHG emissions impact of recycling, the ICLEI Clean Air and Climate Protection (CACP) software andmethodology demonstrates that the overall community recycling tonnage generates 1.5 million tons of CO2e emissions
offsets in comparison to landfilling. The County residential recycling program offset 155,000 CO2e emissions. However,
impacts specific to Miami-Dade County are more complex, and a life-cycle analysis approach is necessary. This would
illustrate a comparative analysis of recycling material types and disposal methods. It would incorporate energy use andassociated GHG emissions for recyclable goods that are land filled in comparison to being incinerated or recycled. Thiseffort is incorporated in the Solid Waste Master Plan, with results expected in 2011.

2015 Estimated Daily Greenhouse
Gas Emissions by Vehicle Type
Motor Home
0.4%
Motorcycle
0.3%

The personal automobile is expected to continue
to be the largest source of GHG emissions within
the transportation sector in 2015, contributing
68 percent of the GHG emissions . This estimate isbased on transportation modeling, which includes
transportation projects planned through 2015.
(MPO, “Emissions Scenarios” Figure 12)

Bus1%
Light Commercial Truck
3.4%
Refuse Truck
5.8%
Passenger Truck
8.8%

Heavy Duty Truck
12.5%

The Role of Responsible Land Use and Smart Transportation
Each strategy and initiative in the Responsible Land Use and Smart Transportation area contributes to the goals of the
Climate Change Action Plan. These are a collection of existing and new strategies that address land use patterns, community
and transit design, services provided on the system, as well as strategies to improve system efficiencies associated withgrowth and mobility. The actions in this goal area are expected to achieve cross-cutting benefits from reducing emissions
by facilitating a shift in trips made in the personal automobile to walking, biking and public transportation, to facilitating
healthier communities through actions targeting street design, parks, and bicycle and walking facilities. It recognizes theneed to prioritize sustainable modes of transportation in the long term while continuing to provide increased connectivity
and improved traffic flow on the existing transportation network.

Responsible Land Use and Smart Transportation Strategies Contributing to Climate Action
Plan Mitigation Efforts• Better integrate planning and prioritize investments• Support existing communities and value neighborhoods• Increase bicycling & walking• Increase transit ridership• Improve connectivity and mobility on the existing system

The initiatives in the Responsible Land Use and Smart Transportation Goal Area reduce emissions by 532,000 mt
CO2 e and avoid 608,000 mt CO2e

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Passenger Car
67.8%

Breakdown of Trips by Purpose
Work orWork-Related
17.7%

Social/Recreation
27.1%

School/Church
9.8%
Other
0.8%

Most trips are not work-related. Compact
development can help people reduce
car use for errands, shopping , and otherpersonal trips. (Urban Land Institute 5)

Family/Personal
44.6%

g r e e n P R I N TCompact development strategies are not typically highlighted in climate change mitigation because they are consideredindirect measures. They may reduce driving, but it is difficult to quantify the reductions caused by land use and zoning
policies that encourage infill development. Several recent studies have analyzed and documented the effect of compact
development on driving. A study published by the Urban Land Institute, “Growing Cooler: The Evidence on Urban
Development and Climate Change,” estimates that the five “Ds” of compact development— density, diversity, design,
destination, and distance to transit—can lead to 12 to 18 percent reductions in VMT by 2050 (Urban Land Institute 20).
The studies reported a wide range of reductions in VMT, five to 60 percent, which is an indication of how much there is
to be learned about the effect of compact development on driving. An additional economic benefit of VMT reductions is
reducing the vulnerability of residents and businesses to sudden increases in gasoline prices. For purposes of estimating
the benefits through implementing this plan, a five percent decrease in VMT from compact development strategies andinitiatives has been established. The target was chosen in light of the wide ranges established in the studies and is likely very
conservative based on the Transit Oriented Development and rezoning efforts over the past 11 years in areas designatedas urban centers. Applying a five percent reduction target to projected GHG emissions from the system in 2015, reveals apotential reduction of 500,000 metric tons of CO2e.

The Climate Change Connection
The initiatives in these strategies are expected to lead to significant emissions reductions through VMT reductions
prompted by more compact development. GHG emissions reduction estimates were made for the initiative “Increase
Transit-Oriented Development” as indicated below. One such approach is to establish housing and mixed-use facilities
near Metrorail stations. Actual ridership percentage gains realized through the affordable housing development at theSanta Clara Metrorail Station were applied to two projects scheduled for completion by 2015.

Quantified Emission Reductions Associated with Strategies
Total Projected VMTReduced(miles/yr)

Total Projected
Reduced Emissions(mt CO2e)5 percent decrease

500,000

Transit-Oriented Development-Brownsvillea 467-unit affordable housing building (expected completion by 2014)

7,633,397

4,206Transit-Oriented Development-Northsidea 350-unit affordable housing building (expected completion by 2014)

14,138,547

7,791

Initiative
Implementation of policies and initiatives leading
to compact development
Initiatives contributing to the overall 5 percent decrease, for which VMTestimates were made:What is Compact Development?

Successful compact development is a land use settlement pattern that features most or all of the following:• Concentrations of population and/or employment;• Medium to high densities appropriate to context;• A mix of uses;• Interconnected streets;• Innovative and flexible approaches to parking;• Pedestrian, bicycle and transit-friendly design; and• Access and proximity to transit.
Compact development can be built anywhere. It encompasses residential and commercial development
and can be adapted to urban, suburban, and rural settings. Single-family houses, townhomes, andapartments all have a place in compact development. Employment centers are also important candidates
for compact development.
(Urban Land Institute 3)

Strategy: Increase Bicycling & Walking
This strategy is a collection of initiatives expected to shift from trips in the personal automobile to bicycling or walking
trips. Actions include providing more bicycle and pedestrian facilities and amenities such as parking and end-of-trip
facilities. Two innovative and potentially game-changing initiatives are to adopt a complete streets policy that will drive
the prioritization of alternative and more sustainable modes of transportation in street design and construction, and theinitiative to reduce the automobile parking requirements in the zoning code.

To focus on how GreenPrint strategies will reduce emissions and aid in future planning and decision-making, calculations
are provided below for those initiatives for which assumptions were feasible to develop. Initiatives are organized in thefollowing strategy groupings:
Strategies: Better Integrate Planning and Prioritize Investments & Support Existing Communities and Value
Neighborhoods
These strategies include a collection of initiatives addressing planning, land use, and community design, which are
expected to cumulatively and indirectly achieve significant GHG emissions reductions. The overarching strategy to “Better
Integrate Planning and Prioritize Investments” is designed to make future investments in an efficient transportation systemthat provides more choices, reduces household transportation costs, supports our unique economic engines and create
close-knit, self-sufficient neighborhoods connected by sustainable transportation services. It also includes initiatives to
explore opportunities to shift current funding revenue streams and to identify new and innovative funding sources andmechanisms to support transit and other sustainable modes. The second strategy to “Support Existing Communities andValue Neighborhoods” includes initiatives aimed at driving development to infill areas and redevelopment areas throughsuch initiatives as lowering barriers to increasing densities in infill and redevelopment areas and providing incentives.
Some barriers identified through the planning process include water and sewer infrastructure, poor design, and minimal
connectivity. Other initiatives include providing for meaningful open spaces and recreation areas, designing pedestrian
and bicycle friendly neighborhoods and providing for housing diversity.

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The Climate Change Connection
The goal is to increase the percentage of trips taken by walking or bicycling from 10 to 16 percent, consistent with theFederal Highway Administration’s goal of 15.8 percent. Also listed are the emissions reductions expected from two specificprojects where assumptions and methodologies could be established:

Quantified Emission Reductions Associated with Strategy
Total Projected Reduced Emissions(mt CO2e)

Initiative
Increase the percentage of total trips taken by walking or bicycling from 10 percent
to 16 percent of all travel trips (over plan period of 5 years)

128,622Fund & Construct Priority non-motorized multi-use trails 8.4 miles of Black Creek
Trail (expected completion by July 2012)

643

Include designated bicycle space within Metrorail cars (1,750 bikes on trains/year984

beginning in 2014)

Total

130,249**Note: - These emissions are a component of the emissions reductions estimated from compact development strategies (500,000
mtons CO2e) and initiatives and will be discounted from those estimates in emissions summary tables. CO2e and initiatives and will be
discounted from those estimates in emissions summary tables.

The estimated emissions reductions for the aspirational goal were established using data from the National Household
Travel Survey (U.S. DOT n. pag.), which includes the Miami-Ft. Lauderdale Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Area (CMSA)
and was prorated by population as follows:

Emission Reductions to Achieve a Six Percent Increase in Walking and Biking Trips
Total add. Trips
2010-2015

Miles per trip

Vehicle miles
reducedEmissions reduced(mt C02e)

Biking85,288,323

2

170,576,647

94,007

Walking465,430,565

0.5

232,715,282

128,252

Total

222,259

At 58 percent (Miami-Dade vs. Broward population)

130,249

Trip Mode

The Climate Change Connection
All initiatives in this strategy contribute to achieving the overarching aspirational goal to add 10 million boardings to
our public transportation system through increased services, enhancing convenience, comfort, and timely service. Trueto the interlinked nature of land use and transportation, initiatives grouped under the first strategy in this area, such asincreasing transit-oriented development, also contribute to an increase in ridership. Other contributions to reductions
are expected from initiatives that target transit service improvements and other low-cost efficiency improvement-type
actions.
The table below illustrates the aspirational goal of increasing transit ridership by 10 percent, or 10 million boardings,
along with estimated gains from additional percentage increases:

Emission Reductions from Increasing Transit Ridership
Miami-Dade County

Strategy: Increase Transit RidershipThis strategy is a collection of initiatives that include implementable transportation improvements along priority corridors,
linking the Metrorail to Miami International Airport (MIA), establishing strategically located Park & Ride facilities, andother service and efficiency improvements. With limited funding for new capital projects and increasing operation andmaintenance costs, a series of low-cost efficiency actions are being prioritized. These initiatives are not listed below as they
do not provide direct emissions reductions but are expected to increase ridership, particularly boosting “choice ridership,”attracting those individuals who could drive their cars but who choose to ride transit instead because of the conveniences
and other benefits. Non-quantified initiatives include developing social marketing campaigns to make riding transit “cool,”
continuing to improve safety, increasing technology features including real time bus signage announcing arrival times and
Wi-Fi availability, and improving access and amenities at transit stops and stations for all users.

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If we increase transit ridership byMetro Mover

Total

Reduced emissions from ridership increase in
mt CO2eMetro Bus

Metrorail

mt CO2e10 percent

18,7477,238

463

26,44820 percent

37,495

14,476926

52,89730 percent

56,242

21,7141389

79,34540 percent

74,99028,952

1852

105,794

50 percent

93,73736,191

2315

132,242g r e e n P R I N T

Specific reductions calculations were possible for a few initiatives within this strategy, one of which is to improve transit
services and to develop transit ridership within priority corridors so premium transit service, such as bus rapid transit ora rail transit system, can be implemented successfully when deemed feasible. Corridor improvements include articulated
hybrid buses, improved transit stops, Wi-Fi, traffic signal priority, improved headways, and Park and Ride facilities. (MPO,“Draft Near Term” 15). Ridership projections were made for these planned improvements and are the basis for the emissions
reduction estimates. Estimates were also calculated for Park and Ride facilities planned for specific locations based onparking capacities of several planned facilities. Opportunities for public-private partnerships to establish Park-and-Ridefacilities, as a part of transportation concurrency requirements for new developments, are being pursued. Finally, ridershipincreases were projected for the AirportLink system expansion connecting the Metrorail to the Miami Intermodal Center
and, eventually, MIA.

The Climate Change Connection
In terms of emissions reductions, the improved movement or flow of people and freight accomodated through theseprojects is expected to reduce travel times and, in the case of freight projects, ease the conflict between commercial trucks
and personal passenger vehicles on urban streets and major roadways. Another significant opportunity for communities
to reduce idling time of vehicles on the network is through the implementation of traffic system management solutions
including improved signal timing, or Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS). As of August 31, 2010, the County
completed installation of 94.8 percent of ATMS on designated intersections. The emissions reduction benefits from thisprogram are not included in this plan because they were put in place prior to plan development. The emissions reductions
associated are expected to be significant from a decrease in overall fuel consumption as a result of increased traffic flow,
reduction of traffic stops, and an overall reduction in traveling time.
The following are initiatives for which assumptions and methodologies were developed to estimate emissions reductions:

An additional two million Metrorail boardings
expected each year with the completion of
the Airport Link, which connects the Metrorail
to Miami International Airport.

Quantified Emission Reductions Associated with Strategy
Initiative

Work in partnership with the Metropolitan Planning
Organization (MPO) and South Florida Commuter Services toexpand carpooling and vanpooling programs
Increase carpool participation by five percent/year
Increase Vanpool fleet by 12 vans/year

Quantified Emission Reductions Associated with Strategy
Initiative

Total Projected Reduced Emissions (mt CO2e)

Add 10 million boardings to our public transportation system throughincreased services, enhancing convenience, comfort, and timely
service - over plan period of five years

13,901

Increase the number of enhanced bus corridors – Service
improvements on four priority corridors over the plan period of five
years

3,258

Increase the number of Park and Ride facilities. Establishing six
facilities by 2015

892

Complete the Airport Link – connection of the Metrorail to Miami
International Airport – completion by April 2012

8,397

Total

26,448**Note: - The initiatives in this strategy contribute to the estimated emissions reductions from the aspirational goal of increasing transit
ridership by 10 percent, or 10 million boardings (26,448 mtons CO2e) as established in the previous table.

Strategy: Improve Connectivity and Mobility on the
Existing System
This strategy is a collection of existing and new initiatives
that address the need to increase connectivity and improve
traffic flow on the existing transportation network. Initiatives
include providing critical connections throughout the
network, improving freight movement and access to our
economic engines, expanding proven strategies to smoothtraffic flows, and promoting ridesharing programs within our
region. Initiatives in this area also include prioritizing projects
that improve connectivity and mobility between major
economic drivers and major activity hubs such as the Port ofMiami, MIA, sports and arts venues, and convention centers.
This effort recognizes the need to focus on those projects thatprovide for the greatest number of jobs as well as those that
improve the economic competiveness of our communtity.

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Total Projected Reduced Emissions (mt CO2e)
Carpooling 3,892
Vanpooling 1,613

Expand the express bus service between Miami-Dade andBroward counties through extending the I-95 managed/express
lanes from Golden Glades Interchange to I-595 (expectedcompletion of construction by December 2013)

337

Total

5,842

Is it enough?
Overall emissions would need to be decreased by 6.78 million metric tons of CO2 by 2015 to reach adopted targets.
Recognizing the transportation sector accounts for approximately half of all GHG emissions, adopting a proportionaltarget reduction would require a reduction of 3.39 million metric tons of CO2 emissions by 2015 from the transportation
sector. The culmination of emissions reductions estimates from the strategies and initiatives in this area, as well as the
expected emissions reduction gains from the phasing in of cars with higher fuel efficiency as a result of the current
Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) Standards, is depicted in the below figure.

Percent Contribution to Greenhouse Gas
Emissions Reduction Target from theLand Use and Transportation Goal Area
Compact
Development
10.9%

Emissions
Reductions
Needed64.6%

CAFEStandards
19.7%
Bike/Walk
Shift
3.8%
Increased
Ridership
0.8%
Car/VanPooling
0.2%This figure illustrates the need for reductions necessary toreach our aggressive long-term target. It is important tounderstand that this plan includes actionable initiatives
implementable within the five-year time frame. It is an
important beginning that informs the next critical steps.
While the transportation sector provides one of thegreatest opportunities for emissions reductions, it also
provides the greatest challenges given the high cost ofmultimodal investments and our existing development
pattern. This includes changes in land uses, compact andmixed-use developments that are dependent on market
and overall economic conditions, and investments
needed to establish a true multimodal transportation
system. This plan endeavors to establish a framework bywhich priorities and investments are made.

Based on emissions produced, the transportation sector must
play a significant role in reduction: roughly 50 percent. This
chart represents the quantifiable percent contribution fromthe initiatives and highlights the remaining opportunities
for reduction. Reductions in this goal area will need to beaccelerated to reach the 80 percent reduction goal by 2050.

g r e e n P R I N TClosing the Gap
There is no silver bullet solution, especially in light of economic constraints. Perhaps the first step is to agree on ourdestination, to agree that we will take deliberate and concerted steps to shape our community, to make decisions in policies,
investments, processes, that are driven by the expected benefits to our community and our future. The strategies within
the Leadership, Connections, and Commitment Goal Area and strategies outlined here set that path. Accelerated benefits
could be realized by pushing key GreenPrint strategies further and faster. The figure below illustrates deployment scenarios
for some key strategies to close the gap: moderate to aggressive implementation of compact development strategies,
increasing the rate at which vehicles are replaced with higher fuel efficient vehicles, and increasing the percentage of trips
made by alternative modes, particularly by mass transit.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Scenarios for
the Land Use and Transportation Goal Area

Emissions (million mt CO2e)60
50

Projected Emissions from allcommunity-wide Business as
Usual activities (BAU)

40

Quantified GreenPrint
Reductions through 201530

GreenPrint initiatives projected
out to 2050

20GreenPrint 2015 & Continued
Reductions from CAFE
Standards

10

Accelerated Deployment of Key
Land Use and Transportation
Strategies

0

Cool Counties Emissions
Reduction Target (80% below
2008 Levels by 2050)

2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050 2055

Year

This graph depicts the emissions reductions of varying implementation scenarios of key land use and transportation
strategies and their potential acceleration. Acceleration includes intensifying compact development efforts, expediting
vehicle replacements that meet CAFE standards, and shifting 10 percent of overall trips on the system from the personalautomobile to walking, biking, and transit trips.

Shifting to More Fuel Efficient Vehicles
Fuel economy standards currently are, as they have been since its creation in 1975, set through the CAFE standards,
administered by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA). On April 1, 2010, EPA and NHTSA announced
a joint final rule requiring passenger cars, light-duty trucks, and medium-duty passenger vehicles meet an estimatedcombined average emissions level of 250 grams of carbon dioxide per mile, equivalent to 34.1 miles per gallon (MPG) (U.S.
EPA n. pag.). The standards apply to model years 2012 through 2016. The EPA and NHTSA are now working on rulemaking
to establish national standards for model years 2017 and beyond.
It is important to note that the average rate of increase in fuel efficiency
for vehicles entering the fleet over the last 10 years was used to projectCurrent standards could cut greenhouse gas
emissions for the years beyond 2017. This is likely a conservativeemissions by an estimated 670,000 metricestimate considering the EPA recently released proposed standards
tons CO2e over the first period of this plan,
ranging from 47 to 62 MPG for model years 2017 to 2025 (U.S. EPA
based on an estimated 1.7 percent MPG
n. pag.). An increase in MPG for model years beyond 2017 would
increase per year across the fleet.
increase the rate of introduction of more fuel efficient vehicles into thecommunity fleet. For example, assuming a 2.1 percent increase per
year rather than a 1.7 percent increase would accelerate the amountof emissions reductions that could be realized by 2050, illustrated in
the chart to the left. Miami-Dade County could be at the forefront of the efforts to advocate for rapid implementation of
the new CAFE standards and for federal, state and local incentive programs. This is an area where the County is leadingby example with its fleet purchases, which include 329 active gasoline-electric hybrid sedans, three of which are plug-in
hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs).
Making Mass Transit a Viable Option
The personal automobile contributes 68 percent of the emissions from the transportation sector. Our current public
transportation system supports four percent, or 326,000 (MPO, “Draft Near Term” 9) out of approximately eight million
daily trips on the network (MPO “Long Range” 55). Considering this, adopting a scenario of doubling current ridershipwould not make a significant impact on reducing emissions relative to the target. Shifting 10 percent of the eight million
daily trips to walking, biking, and mass transit would result in emissions reductions of 650,000 mt CO2e by 2050, and is
a component of the emissions reductions represented by the accelerated deployment scenario. The County’s current
direction for transit is improving services and developing transit ridership within priority corridors so that when a railtransit system is deemed feasible it can be implemented successfully (MPO, “Draft Near Term” 15). The acceleration of thisphased-in approach is critical not only to realizing sustainability benefits for residents but also to achieving emissions
reductions needed to mitigate climate change.

Initiatives addressing the barriers to increasing densities in infill and redevelopmentareas and incentivizing effective development are essential for acceleration, as issignificant support from leadership, both in terms of policy and funding.

Absent the resources to move the needle on emissions reductions that quickly, it is still important to make the improvements
outlined in the strategies and initiatives. It all adds up to a more sustainable community. “Combinations of strategies createsynergies that enhance the potential reductions from individual measures. In particular, land use changes combined withexpanded transit services achieve stronger GHG reductions than when only one option is implemented” (Cambridge 1).

Growing Smarter
Intensifying the deployment of a compact and efficient urban form through more density, diversity, design, destination,and distance to transit could realize a 12 to 18 percent reduction in VMT by 2050 (Urban Land Institute 20). According torecent studies, this could contribute a 6.4 million to 9.6 million metric tons CO2e reduction to long-term emissions.

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The Role of Vibrant Economy

The Role of Healthy Communities

Vibrant Economy Strategies Contributing to
Climate Action Plan Mitigation Efforts• Build a sustainable economy and promote
green business

The strategies and initiatives in this portion of the plan
have indirect emissions reductions as well as direct
impacts that will be determined though the GreenPrint
implementation process.

The Healthy Communities goal is important to the well-being of our residents. By encouraging outdoor activities andpromoting local, organic fresh food, we are helping to combat obesity and lifestyle diseases such as diabetes andcardiovascular disease. Although the strategies and initiatives in this area do not all result in obvious or easily measurable
carbon emission decreases, their sustainability benefits are significant. Strategies that have a beneficial impact on carbon
storage, sequestration, or emissions are included below.

The initiatives in the Vibrant Economy Goal Area reduce emissions by 326,000 mt CO2e and avoid 326,000 mt CO2e.

Healthy Communities Strategies Contributing to Climate Action Plan Mitigation Efforts• Facilitate active and safe lifestyles for residents through the Open Space Master Plan andother community initiatives• Plant more trees• Promote fresh, local, organic foods in all neighborhoods through grocers, farmers’ markets,and community gardens

Strategy: Build a sustainable economy and promote green business
The focus of Vibrant Economy is building upon our successful economic engines and transforming operations into moresustainable practices. From the airport and seaport to trade, tourism and agriculture, we can build a sustainable economy
and promote green business. Miami-Dade County benefits from a diverse economy, not solely relying on one or two
industries. While tourism, trade and agriculture are key economic drivers, Miami-Dade County also enjoys a thriving small
business sector.
A recent article in “Environment 360” posed this intriguing question, “how significant would it be if America’s 29 million
small businesses increased their energy efficiency and reduced their emissions?” (Bowman n.pag.) Running a more energyefficient business and sustainable operation is easier than reaching consensus on sea level rise maps. Given the number ofsmall businesses that make up the diverse Miami-Dade economy, there is great potential to reduce emissions.

Strategy: Facilitate active and safe lifestyles for residents through the Open Space Master Plan and othercommunity initiatives
This strategy includes various initiatives to promote walking and biking. Half of the trips in the United States could becompleted within a 20-minute bike ride, and a quarter of trips are within a 20-minute walk (Rails to Trails Conservancy).
Nonetheless, most of these trips are taken by car. This is certainly the case in South Florida, with its hot, humid climate andcar-centric culture. Some progress has been made, as shown in the figure below. Between 1995 and 2009 the percentageof person trips taken by walking or biking in South Florida increased from approximately four percent to 10 percent. The
2009 figure is slightly below the national average of 12 percent (National Household Transportation Survey).

The Climate Change Connection
The cornerstone of this strategy is the Miami-Dade Green Business Certification Program, which is being developed tohelp local enterprises maximize their social, ecological and financial performance. Local small businesses are by definition
sustainable business: they tend to hire locally, buy locally and sell locally. The program will document savings and help
market the benefits to educated and eco-conscious consumers. The new program aims to help businesses become moreresource-efficient with energy, water, raw materials and waste production. The program is in the development phase;
therefore, businesses are encouraged to perform self audits now, based on a checklist of program standards. Greenbusinesses conserve energy by using energy-efficient lighting and Energy Star-rated equipment; conserve water throughthe use of low-flow toilets and water flow restrictors; and reduce waste by recycling, composting and using materials withrecycled content. These practices also create a safe and healthy workplace for employees and customers.

700,000,000

350,000

600,000,000

300,000

500,000,000

250,000

400,000,000

200,000

300,000,000

150,000

200,000,000

100,000

100,000,000

50,000

0

0
1%

2%

3%

4%

Estimated percentage savings of electricity
Emissions Avoided

M i a m i - D a d e

5%

C o u n t yElectricity Savings

Percent of Person Trips

12.0%

mt CO2e Reductions

If all businesses registeredthrough the Miami-Dade
County Tax Collector
reduce electricalconsumption by thepercentages shown
they will also reducegreenhouse gas emissions
as illustrated.

Biking and Walking as a Percentage of All Trips
Miami-Ft Lauderdale Consolidated Metropilitan Statistical Area
(CMSA)

Potential Energy and Emissions Savings as Commercial
Businesses Become More Energy EfficientKWh Savings

This figure illustrates
therelationships
betweensavings
inelectricity
andreductions in CO2emissions. As thebusinessbecomesmore
efficient,itsaves money and thecommunity as a whole
benefits from the CO2
reductions.

The Climate Change Connection
The County estimates that increasing biking and walking to 16 percent of total trips by 2015 could result in emissions
reductions of 130,249 metric tons.

10.0%
8.0%
6.0%
4.0%
2.0%
0.0%
1995

2001

Source: Federal Highway Administration,
National Household Travel Survey (http://nhts.ornl.gov)

2009Walked %Bicycle %South Floridians walked more frequently in 2009 than in 1995. However, the portion of trips taken by bike fluctuated overthe same time period. All trips include biking, walking, transit, and vehicles.

g r e e n P R I N TStrategy: Plant more trees
This strategy includes initiatives to plant more trees and promote proper tree
selection and maintenance, thus increasing our tree canopy from 14 percent
in 2006 to 30 percent by 2020. Trees reduce air pollution by absorbing orintercepting pollutants such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogendioxide, ozone and particulates. A single mature tree can absorb carbon dioxide
at a rate of 48 pounds per year, and release enough oxygen into the atmosphereto support two human beings. Three hundred trees can counterbalance theamount of pollution one person produces in a lifetime (Alexander n.pag.).
Additionally, tree leaves and branches intercept rainfall, hold it and thenrelease it slowly, thereby reducing runoff, increasing infiltration into the soil,
and helping to maintain water quality. One study from the U.S. Forest Service
estimated that over a 50 year lifetime a tree generates $31,250 worth of oxygen,provides $62,000 worth of air pollution control, recycles $37,500 worth of water,
and controls $31,250 worth of soil erosion (Alexander n.pag.).
The Climate Change Connection
Trees can sequester and store small amounts of carbon from the atmosphere,
helping to reduce GHG levels. More significantly, trees can be a natural air
conditioner, reducing the need for electrical cooling and, as such, reducing GHG.
The evaporation from a single large tree can produce the cooling effect of 10
room-size air conditioners operating 24 hours per day (McPherson and Simpson
n.pag.). A recent study by American Forests found that the maximum potential
annual savings from energy-conserving landscapes around a typical homeranged from a low of 13 percent in Madison, Wisconsin to a high of 38 percent
in Miami (Alexander n.pag.). Another modeling study estimated that the directenergy savings from shadingalone by trees and vegetation
could reduce carbon emissions
in various U.S. metropolitan
areas by roughly 1.5 to five
35%
percent (U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency). In addition30%
to the previously mentioned
sustainability benefits, trees play25%
an important role in encouraging
22%
outdoorhealth-promoting
20%
activity like walking and biking,especially in South Florida’s
14%
15%
climate, which can reduce theuse of personal vehicles for short10%
trips. Shade trees can also keepparked cars—particularly their
5%gas tanks—cooler, which lowers
evaporative emissions.
0%Percentage of Tree Canopy in Miami-Dade County

Percentage

30%

2006

2015

Tree Canopy
Percentage

2020

Year
Source (2006): Presentation by Francisco Escovedo, Assistant Professor, University of Florida, at the
Fourth Annual Tree Summit held June 25, 2010 at Florida International University

Our goal is to increase tree plantings to achieve a total tree canopy from the 2006 level of 14 percent to 22 percent in2015, and ultimately to 30 percent in 2020. The 30 percent tree canopy target was established by the Board of County
Commissioners through the 2007 Street Tree Master Plan and the Comprehensive Development Master Plan.

M i a m i - D a d e

C o u n t yStrategy: Promote fresh, local, organic food in allneighborhoods through grocers, farmers’ markets,and community gardens
This strategy focuses on promoting local and organic
farming, as well as increasing the availability of thisproduce to the general public and urban communities.
It is difficult to calculate the environmental impact offresh, local food initiatives since the carbon footprintof food depends on many factors, including food typeand methods of production and distribution. However,there is broad general consensus that local, organically
produced and unprocessed foods promote sustainability.
The Climate Change Connection
Producing food locally may reduce the GHG related totransportation and marketing of food, and reducing
pesticide and chemical fertilizer use can reduce emissions
associated with the manufacturing, distribution andapplication of these products, reduce erosion andimprove soil quality. Some studies have shown thatorganically farmed soil sequesters significantly morecarbon than conventionally farmed soil (Fernandez
Rysavy n.pag.). Community gardens that produce local
food have additional sustainability benefits, including
the reduction of heat island effects in urban areas, which
decreases the need for air conditioning, water filtration,and reduction of soil erosion and run-off.

g r e e n P R I N TMoving Forward
From this first five-year phase of our Miami-Dade Climate Change Action Plan, two things are clear: one, our community isa true leader in tackling climate change issues, and we have tremendous success and experience to build upon; and two,
we have a lot of work to do to reach our mitigation goals and make our community more resilient to current hazards andfuture impacts. The figure below illustrates the GreenPrint contributions towards emission reductions, as well as the gap
expected despite implementation of these initiatives. This action plan has clearly laid out potential opportunities to closethat gap and leverage resources, and it is up to us as a community to work together to make this happen.

to reach our target. While this may seem daunting, it emphasizes the need for the continuous development of initiatives
that will further contribute to GHG emissions reductions in future GreenPrint updates. Better economic conditions andimproved technology and innovation, as expected in the future, will serve to make this goal even more attainable.
As a coastal community identified as one of the most vulnerable to climate change, it is incumbent upon us to harden

Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Scenarios
60.000

GreenPrint Contribution Toward the Cool Counties
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Target
CAFE Standards
9.9%

Water &
Energy8.5%
Vibrant
Economy4.8%
Environment
0.3%
Leadership
0.3%
6.8 million metric tons CO2eThis chart shows how quantifiable GreenPrint initiatives contribute to the 2015 ten percent reduction target
established through the Cool Counties commitment. Again, these are the initial steps on a 40-year path to the 2050
target. It is anticipated that the impact will be accelerated in later years.

Looking further ahead, the figure on the next page illustrates the tremendous potential to make significant strides towards
the Cool Counties GHG goal of 80 percent reduction by 2050. Through full, and in some cases accelerated, deployment of
key strategies across all goal areas, we can close that projected gap considerably. This would include fully implementing
compact development strategies, shifting the mode for the percentage of the population utilizing public transit from four
percent to 10 percent, increasing the penetration rate of vehicles with newer CAFE standards to accomplish a complete
fleet turnover in 20 years rather than 25 years, decreasing residential and commercial average electricity consumption
by 20 percent, and achieving a 25 percent electricity consumption reduction for targeted local businesses. Even if theseaccelerated deployment endeavors are realized, a remaining 14 million metric tons of CO2e would still need to be reduced

M i a m i - D a d e

C o u n t y

Emissions(million mt CO2e)

GreenPrint 2015

Land Use/
Transportation
7.8%

Emissions
Reductions
Needed
68.4%

Business as Usual

50.00040.000
GreenPrint 2015 Projection

30.000
GreenPrint 2015 & Continued Reductions
from CAFE Standards

20.000Accelerated Deployment of Key Strategies(Land Use and Transportation)

10.000Accelerated Deployment of Key Strategies(All Goal Areas)

0.000

Cool Counties Emissions Reduction Target(80% below 2008 Levels by 2050)

2005

2010

2015

2020

2025

2030

2035

2040

2045

2050

2055

Year
This chart compares a business-as-usual scenario with our aggressive Cool Counties commitment target. GreenPrint’s
contribution is shown, as well as hypothetical accelerated emission reduction strategies.

ourselves against current hazards and improve the resiliency to prepare for, respond to, and recover from, future climatechange. Recent occurrences of temperature and rainfall extremes provide a glimpse of potential future impacts. These
events, as well as tropical storms that periodically impact our region, can cause significant infrastructure and socioeconomic damage, but they can also present important learning opportunities that provide valuable experience andknowledge for current and future progress.
GreenPrint is a 40-year journey. We are embarking upon this initial phase and will build upon our existing knowledge
and experience. It is our challenge and opportunity to use this initial five-year phase to build upon successes and create
a foundation to move forward. This will help provide the tools and information so critical to educating the communityand decision-makers. By combining our opportunities and knowledge with the resources provided through our regional,
state, and federal partnerships, we have the tools that will allow us to chip away at that gap and help our community
remain strong and adapt to a new normal of a changing climate. Let us now take that knowledge and experience andturn science into action.

g r e e n P R I N T