Acting boldly on climate change
For ourselves and generations to come
Our vision for a climate-friendly future
Hennepin County’s Climate Action Plan guides the county’s response to climate change. Pursuing the strategies laid out in the plan will enable us to create a better future for ourselves and future generations.
The Climate Action Plan
The plan includes 5 goals, 29 strategies, and 145 tactics. The strategies focus on cutting greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to our changing climate in ways that reduce vulnerabilities and ensure a more equitable and resilient Hennepin County.
View the Climate Action PlanPDF (91 pages - 8MB)
Download the Climate Action Plan
What climate change means for Hennepin County
More and more, Hennepin County residents are noticing the effects of climate change — from warming winter temperatures, more extreme rain and snow events, and changes in our valued ecosystems.
Everyone experiences climate change, but the impacts are not felt equally. Communities of color, low-income families, residents with disabilities, and other vulnerable communities are the most at risk from negative climate impacts.
How Hennepin County is leading on climate action
Hennepin County’s response to climate change is important. The county leads in many areas that offer the most effective ways to cut greenhouse gas emissions, such as investing in transit, conserving energy use in our buildings, protecting natural resources, and preventing waste.
What we can do: Taking action at home and in your community
We all have a shared responsibility to do more to combat climate change and protect our local environment.
Hennepin and Ramsey counties are partnering with volunteer community scientists this summer to gather data to better understand heat in urban areas. This project is part of NOAA’s 2024 Urban Heat Island Mapping Campaign. Learn how to get involved.
Staying safe in the heat and humidity
Minnesotans love spending time outdoors in summer, but summer heat and humidity can be dangerous, especially for those with underlying health conditions or who work or exercise outdoors. Learn how to be prepared for hot days and steps to take to stay cool.
Keeping rainwater in your yard
Keeping rainwater on your yard is a good way to prevent localized flooding and protect water quality.