Evaluating Local Climate Policy: Municipal Action Plans through the Lens of Resilience and Environmental Justice

Abstract

In the US, local governments are increasingly crucial in driving climate action. Drawing upon Tang et al. (2010) and Baker et al. (2012), this study assesses nine local climate action plans in the state of Michigan. It introduces a comprehensive framework, integrating climate resilience and environmental justice (EJ) indicators to evaluate plan content. Despite recognizing global climate concerns, qualitative content analysis shows that plans lack localized analyses and actions, hampering planning due to insufficient data, minimal coordination, limited funds, and finite policy options. Key aspects like equitable resource distribution, environmental burdens, and community engagement are often overlooked. Without addressing these, local governments lack the tools to effectively implement just and climate-oriented policies.