Berkeley Cuts CO2 Emissions 15% Since 2002 with Biodiesel, Alt Fuels
13 September 2005
Berkeley (California) Mayor Tom Bates and environmental leaders announced the City of Berkeley has reduced its carbon emissions by 14% since 2002.
The largest percentage by far of the net 2,066 metric ton reduction came from vehicles, primarily due to the use of biodiesel and expanded use of electric and natural gas vehicles.
The analysis was conducted as part of the City’s application to join the Chicago Climate Exchange (CCX)—an association of private and public entities that has been trading emissions allowances since December 2003. The exchange requires members to reduce emissions by 1 percent per year through 2006.
The City reduced emissions from vehicles by 47% and from natural gas by 16%. However, the City had a 5% increase in electricity-related emissions, mostly due to the opening of the expanded central library and its acquisition of the building at 1947 Center Street, which includes a tenant with a large computer center.
The Berkeley City Council votes tonight to officially join the CCX at its meeting on Tuesday, September 13.
| Greenhouse Gas Emissions Summary Table | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| End Use | Baseline A | Change B | % Change |
| A Baseline is the average annual emissions from 1998–2001 B Reductions through 2004, compared to baseline | |||
| Vehicle Fuels | 4,503 | -2,164 | -48% |
| Natural Gas (Buildings) | 1,943 | -307 | -16% |
| Electricity | 8,404 | +405 | +5% |
| Total | 14,849 | -2,066 | -14% |
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