Sustainability Workshop:
Learning to make changes for a better Richmond
Presented by
Community Engagement Team
Overview
As the Office of Sustainability implements the RVAgreen 2050 Climate Action Plan, we are dedicated to empowering you on your journey to understand sustainability and climate change. We'll help you discover simple actions you can take to become a sustainability champion.
Agenda
Recognizing that change is a gradual process, our approach is centered on meeting you where you are and progressing steadily every day. Our guide is organized into the following five modules
OFFICE OF SUSTAINABILITY
Our mission is to serve as the central hub of equitable climate action and resilience.
Our vision is that all Richmonders, regardless of their identity or neighborhood, thrive in a climate-resilient and climate-neutral community
How We Work
We work by Innovating then Implementation
We drive interdepartmental innovation through emerging sustainability practices like Resilience Hubs, and directly implementing community-focused programs such as Federal Funding outreach and heat relief initiatives.
The Office of Sustainability recognizes that change happens when we meet other where they are. In order to achieve our Mission and Vision, we strive to provide all services in a manner that is inclusive, respectful, transparent, and collaborative
Module 1:�What is Sustainability, Climate Change, and Environmental Justice?
Equitable climate action for a healthy, resilient and prosperous Richmond
What is Sustainability?
Sustainability is the practice of meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It involves using resources wisely, minimizing waste and pollution, and promoting renewable energy source
Why Sustainability is Important: In Richmond, sustainability efforts are vital for preserving the city's natural resources, like the James River, and ensuring clean air and water for residents.
Nested Model of Sustainability
Climate Change equals Climate Impacts
Warming of
Atmosphere
CO2
CO2 Emissions
GHG Sources
Energy from Fossil Fuels
Vehicle Emissions
Waste
Floods
Storms
Public Safety
Public Health
Physical Damage
Displacement
Safety
Health
Economic Burden
Food Insecurity
Public Safety
Core Services
Education
Poverty Mitigation
Financial/Credit Risk
Climate Impacts
Climate Shocks
Climate Risks
Residents
Community
Government
Extreme Heat
Extreme Precipitation
Rising Sea Level
What is Environmental Justice?
Environmental justice refers to the fair and equitable treatment of all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or other factors, in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
The importance of Environmental Justice lies in several key aspects:
Dr. Robert Bullard
“Father of Environmental Justice”
Climate Change Affects Some More Than Others?
Racial segregation
Poverty
Income inequality
Lack of living wages
Gaps in educational opportunities and attainment
Concentrated neighborhood disinvestment
Political disenfranchisement and low social capital
Increased neighborhood violence and crime
Ability to afford basic necessities and resources
Access to affordable and quality housing
Access to reliable and affordable transportation
Access to health care
Access to green spaces, green infrastructure, and tree cover
Linguistic isolation
Social cohesion
Residential location
Age
Chronic and acute illnesses
Mental and physical disabilities
Overall health status
Increased �Sensitivity to �Climate Change
Source: Government Alliance for Racial Equity (modified)
Root Causes
Social Factors
Biological Factors
Climate Equity Index
Community Resilience or Adaptive Capacity
*Based on data from the U.S. CDC: Social Vulnerability Index
Race, Income & Disproportionate Climate Impacts
Low-income populations and communities of color are more likely to…
Be impacted by extreme weather events as a result of climate change
Lack access to energy efficient housing and often are disproportionately impacted by high energy bills
Live in neighborhoods that lack convenient access to transit, or safe walking and biking options
Live in areas with less green space and are more vulnerable to respiratory and heat related illnesses
Live in housing without air conditioning and are more vulnerable to heat related and respiratory illnesses and death
Be exposed to pollution and airborne allergens and are more vulnerable to asthma and other respiratory illnesses
Climate change is making Richmond hotter and stormier, but the impacts of this are hitting our historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged communities the hardest.
Frontlines of Climate Change
Frontlines of Climate Change
Current Heat Islands Historical Redlining
Resilience as Social Determinants of Health
What is Community Resilience?
Resilience is “The ability of a system (e.g., family, neighborhood, community, or ecosystem) to cope with short-term disruptions and adapt to long-term changes without losing its essential character, while honoring its history and evolution.”
Resilience is about ensuring that systems—whether they are social or environmental—remain adaptable and strong in the face of challenges. It is not just about surviving an immediate crisis but about building adaptive capacity over time
Module 2:�Introduction to RVAgreen
Equitable climate action for a healthy, resilient and prosperous Richmond
One Vision:
Two Goals:
Five Pathways:
RVAGREEN 2050
Buildings and Energy
Community
Environment
Transportation and Mobility
Waste Reduction and Recovery
Equity Centered Approach
Equity
Climate Action
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Climate Resilience
Prepare for climate change impacts
Climate Action: Achieve a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 from the 2008 baseline; achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
Climate Equity: Address climate change in a way that is inclusive of and prioritizes those who are being impacted first and worst by climate change.
Climate Resilience: Prepare for, adapt, and improve Richmond’s resilience to the local impacts of climate change.
Frontlines of Climate Change
RVAgreen 2050 By The Numbers
Module 3:�Where do I start?
Equitable climate action for a healthy, resilient and prosperous Richmond
With all this information, the question remains: Where do you start? Next, you’ll see a few suggested action opportunities to help guide you on your journey to sustainability. We’ve organized them into four categories
Beginner: I'm new to Sustainability and just trying to start small
Intermediate: I'm ready to take the training wheels off but I need direction
Expert: I Champion Sustainability but still look for more ways to stay updated
Building & Energy Pathway: Where to begin
Beginner: Turn off lights when not in use Save energy and reduce your electricity bill by always turning off lights when you leave a room.
1
Intermediate: Scheduling a home energy audit. These identify energy inefficiencies in your home through an audit, which helps prioritize improvements.
2
Expert: Replace old appliances with energy-efficient alternatives and consider solar installation Energy-efficient appliances and solar significantly cut energy costs.
3
Community Pathway: Where to begin
Beginner: Read RVAgreen! Learn about local sustainability efforts by reading the RVAgreen plan to understand the city's goals and initiatives.
1
Intermediate: Get involved in the Sustainability Resilience Commission. Participate in SRC to contribute to and influence local environmental policies and projects.
2
Expert: Start or volunteer with a local organization addressing climate change! Local groups focused on combating climate change through community-driven projects and advocacy.
3
Environment Pathway: Where to begin
Beginner: Learn about invasive plants and the importance of planting native plants Understand why invasive plants are harmful and the benefits of planting native species.
1
Intermediate: Participate in invasive species removal events or tree planting Join community events focused on removing invasive plants or planting native trees to improve local biodiversity.
2
Expert: Start your own garden or native pollinator garden Create a garden with native plants to support pollinators and enhance local wildlife habitats.
3
Transportation & Mobility: Where to begin
Beginner: Carpool to work or use public transportation (bike to work) Reduce your carbon footprint by carpooling, biking, or using public transportation for your commute.
1
Intermediate: Participate in Mobility University with RVA Rapid Transit Join Mobility University teaches people how to advocate for better public transportation options.
2
Expert: Invest in an EV Significantly cut your emissions by investing in an electric vehicle (EV).
3
Waste & Reduction: Where to begin
Beginner: Start recycling Begin separating your recyclables from regular waste to reduce landfill and promote resource conservation.
1
Intermediate: Start composting or use compost drop sites Composting or participate in community compost drop sites helps reduce landfill waste while creating nutrient-rich soil.
2
Expert: Buy local, organic, and eco-friendly products Buying local helps support sustainable practices and reduce your carbon footprint on the good that you buy.
3
Module 4:�Building your toolbox
Equitable climate action for a healthy, resilient and prosperous Richmond
Build Your Toolbox
As you continue your journey to becoming a sustainability champion, we've compiled a list of resources at the Federal, State, and Local levels to assist you. Scan the QR code below to access the list, and keep in mind that we will continue to update it as more opportunities arise!.
Keep the Learning Going!
Designing the Future of Richmond
These plans will be pivotal as Richmond continues to reshape for the future
Module 5:�Staying Connected and Getting Involved
Equitable climate action for a healthy, resilient and prosperous Richmond
Staying Connected and Getting Involved
Sign up to receive our monthly newsletter! It is the easiest way to stay up-to-date with opportunities for involvement in RVAgreen 2050 and all of Richmond’s equitable climate action and resilience efforts!
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or @RVAgreen2050.com
Use the Climate Equity Index is an interactive tool created by the Office of Sustainability
Join the Sustainability Resilience Commission!
Talk to your circle – The best way to get involved to share what you have learned with family, friends, and neighbors!
Shared Responsibility
Regular Evaluation
Institutionalizing Sustainability in City Government
Transparency
Culture of Improvement
Trusting Relationships
Shared Responsibility Framework
Shared Accountability - TRAC-E
RVAgreen 2050 is an ongoing effort that requires the active participation of residents, businesses, and all levels of government. By working together, we can create a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for Richmond.
Daily at 1am
THANK YOU
Do you have any questions?
rvagreen@rva.gov
www.rvagreen2050.com