[This text is from the introduction. The entire paper (in PDF format) can be found on the CCAPA's web site. -Ed.]

The purpose of this paper is to present the California Chapter of the American Planning Association’s perspective on the most important policy principles to guide the planning-related actions needed to effectively respond to greenhouse gas emission and climate change challenges.

Land use patterns, transportation/land use relationships, and urban design all substantially influence energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) generation. To achieve the carbon reduction goals of California's AB 32, a multi-faceted response will be necessary that incorporates both traditional strategies and new approaches to reduce emissions.

Community planning and land development policies emphasizing sustainable planning and design will be essential as part of the carbon-reduction response in California, particularly in light of the State’s continued population growth. This paper provides details specifically addressing greenhouse gas emissions.

Adaptation to the consequences of climate change is another critical community planning challenge. Cities and counties must consider how to protect their communities from the potentially increased environmental hazards and impacts related to sea-level rise, coastal storms and erosion, modified flood hydrographs, increased stress on levees, wildfire risks, and growing demands for water supply while the Sierra snowpack shrinks. This paper provides details specifically addressing adaptation to climate change.

The following policy principles are offered for consideration by the
Governor, Legislature, State agencies, regional government, and local agencies when developing planning-related policies and actions that address climate change issues.