California Department of Water Resources honored with National Climate Leadership Award
The California Department of Water Resources (DWR) has been honored by the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Center for Corporate Climate Leadership for its actions to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
“DWR exemplifies the dedication and accomplishments that make a difference in the fight against climate change, and sets a high standard for other organizations to follow,” said EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy.
In 2012, the Department adopted the greenhouse gas emissions reduction phase of its Climate Action Plan (CAP), in which DWR commits to reducing its GHG emissions to 50 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 and 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. To achieve these goals, the CAP relies primarily upon using renewable and cleaner energy sources and improving energy efficiency for the State Water Project. As of 2014, DWR's carbon emissions were already approximately 30 percent below 1990 levels.
Nineteen awards were given to 15 organizations and two individuals in the public and private sectors for their leadership in addressing climate change by reducing carbon pollution. The 2015 Climate Leadership Award to DWR was in the Excellence in Greenhouse Gas Management category. The Department is the first public agency in the country to receive this honor. “DWR’s Climate Action Plan places all of our climate-related activities in one comprehensive business strategy,” said John Andrew, DWR Climate Change Executive Manager. “It is undoubtedly one of the Department’s finest efforts ever, and reflects our continuing commitment to sustainability. We’re humbled yet obviously pleased that this initiative has now earned national recognition.”
