Climate Actions Database


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Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from the built environment

ACTION: Ensure new commercial, industrial, and publicly funded construction is built to maximize energy efficiency
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in non-residential structures
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in non-residential structures
ACTION: Ensure new commercial, industrial, and publicly funded construction is built to maximize energy efficiency
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
All Cape communities adopt the Massachusetts stretch building code; which includes 3-year updates consistent with requirements of the Green Communities Act Towns, Civic groups Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm. Towns can also establish new procurement rules to specify low energy demand buildings and solar readiness in municipal structures.
Adopt building energy efficiency bylaws/ordinances to establish bench marking and energy audits for new buildings Towns Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm. Towns can also establish new procurement rules to specify low energy demand buildings and solar readiness in municipal structures.
Institute a renewable fuel standard for heating systems State  
Encourage and subsidize private green energy installations State, Federal  
Require that new buildings are constructed to be EV and solar 'ready' State Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm. Towns can also establish new procurement rules to specify low energy demand buildings and solar readiness in municipal structures.
Establish procurement rules for new construction to specify low energy demand and solar readiness Towns, County Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm. Towns can also establish new procurement rules to specify low energy demand buildings and solar readiness in municipal structures.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from the built environment

ACTION: Retrofit existing commercial, industrial, municipal, and other public buildings
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in non-residential structures
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in non-residential structures
ACTION: Retrofit existing commercial, industrial, municipal, and other public buildings
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Perform energy audits on all municipal buildings State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Subsidize energy efficient equipment; includes deep retrofits of HVAC and retro-commissioning, moisture management, appliances [Mass Save®, PACE] State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Promote smart temperature controls in all municipal, commercial, industrial buildings State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Encourage solar or other renewable energy generation on commercial and industrial buildings State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can also establish new procurement rules to specify low energy demand buildings and solar readiness in municipal structures.
Promote decarbonization of industrial processes State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Encourage towns to develop solar PV projects on town buildings and town-owned land State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Utilize municipal renewable energy revenues for public building retrofits and energy upgrades State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Subsidize energy conservation measures; reduce air leaks, add insulation, switch to efficient lighting and appliances [Mass Save®, PACE] State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Strive to “Lead by example” in publicly funded buildings; include education on the tradeoffs for costs versus savings State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm. Towns can also establish new procurement rules to specify low energy demand buildings and solar readiness in municipal structures.
Encourage energy conservation through cool roofs (light, reflective materials), green (vegetated) roofs, and sub-metering (metering by building unit) State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Require progressively tighter GHG emissions standards for heating systems State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Businesses can carry and promote the use of climate friendly building products, whether recycled or with fewer manufacturing emissions.
Increase building efficiency through weatherization, insulation, and air control State, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from the built environment

ACTION: Expand solar incentive programs such as Solarize Our Town to all Cape communities
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in non-residential structures
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in non-residential structures
ACTION: Expand solar incentive programs such as Solarize Our Town to all Cape communities
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Support and promote the Energize Cape & Islands effort Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Engage Boards of Selectmen and Barnstable Town Council Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from the built environment

ACTION: Retrofit existing residential buildings/houses
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in residential buildings
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in residential buildings
ACTION: Retrofit existing residential buildings/houses
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Promote incentives, rebates, and Mass Save® to weatherize and improve energy efficiency of residential buildings State, County, Towns, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can opt in to the Massachusetts PACE program. Businesses can carry and promote the use of climate friendly building products, whether recycled or with fewer manufacturing emissions.
Incentivize replacement of oil, propane, and gas energy systems with electric ground source and air source heat pumps State, County, Towns, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Accelerate the rate of home energy efficiency improvements (prioritize retrofits and upgrades) State, County, Towns, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Address the unique considerations of historic homes, including the ability to electrify and weatherize State, County, Towns, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Address community character concerns associated with renewable energy installations, including engaging historic commissions State, County, Towns, Energy Efficiency Program Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from the built environment

ACTION: Support energy and efficiency data collection for homebuyers
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in residential buildings
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in residential buildings
ACTION: Support energy and efficiency data collection for homebuyers
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Promote climate-friendly building products Businesses, State, Individuals Businesses can carry and promote the use of climate friendly building products, whether recycled or with fewer manufacturing emissions.
Encourage benchmark standards that require certain building performance Businesses, State, Individuals Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Expand access to and use of home energy audits Businesses, State, Individuals Municipalities and others can promote home energy assessments, and establish systems for tracking home energy assessments and energy retrofits to further incentivize weatherization and electrification.
Require reporting of retrofits and renewable energy installations for homebuyer information Businesses, State, Individuals Municipalities and others can promote home energy assessments, and establish systems for tracking home energy assessments and energy retrofits to aid homebuyers in making smart home choices and further incentivize weatherization and electrification. The real estate community can incorporate home energy and efficiency data into real estate listing services.
Consider means to include home energy scorecards or efficiency data in building sales transactions Businesses, State, Individuals Municipalities and others can promote home energy assessments, and establish systems for tracking home energy assessments and energy retrofits to aid homebuyers in making smart home choices and further incentivize weatherization and electrification. The real estate community can incorporate home energy and efficiency data into real estate listing services.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from the built environment

ACTION: Ensure new residential construction is built to maximize efficiency
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in residential buildings
STRATEGY: Strive towards Net Zero Energy Buildings; reduce energy consumption in residential buildings
ACTION: Ensure new residential construction is built to maximize efficiency
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Advance the design of new homes, including multifamily; promote Passive House principles State, County, CLC, Towns, Utilities Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Support training of architects, contractors, builders, building code enforcement officials State, County, CLC, Towns, Utilities  
Support Cape communities in adopting the Massachusetts stretch building code; which includes 3-year updates consistent with requirements of the Green Communities Act State, County, CLC, Towns, Utilities Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm. Towns can also establish new procurement rules to specify low energy demand buildings and solar readiness in municipal structures.
Limit residential building size State, County, CLC, Towns, Utilities Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from the built environment

ACTION: Encourage a mix of land uses where possible
STRATEGY: Promote efficient land use policies and development patterns that protect the nature and character of the region
STRATEGY: Promote efficient land use policies and development patterns that protect the nature and character of the region
ACTION: Encourage a mix of land uses where possible
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Encourage zoning that allows commercial and residential uses in the same area County, Towns, Civic Organizations Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Encourage zoning that promotes compact multifamily development in walkable areas County, Towns, Civic Organizations Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Educate the community about new zoning County, Towns, Civic Organizations Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from the built environment

ACTION: Promote infill and adaptive reuse
STRATEGY: Promote efficient land use policies and development patterns that protect the nature and character of the region
STRATEGY: Promote efficient land use policies and development patterns that protect the nature and character of the region
ACTION: Promote infill and adaptive reuse
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Develop new zoning, transfer of development rights bylaws for new construction, redevelopment, and the existing built environment County, Towns Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Provide density bonuses or increased coverage for developments that are redeveloping or infilling County, Towns Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from the built environment

ACTION: Focus growth in Activity Centers
STRATEGY: Promote efficient land use policies and development patterns that protect the nature and character of the region
STRATEGY: Promote efficient land use policies and development patterns that protect the nature and character of the region
ACTION: Focus growth in Activity Centers
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Utilize zoning tools, such as form-based code, to promote infill and development in Activity Centers, where infrastructure already exists, but outside of Special Flood Hazard Areas County, Towns Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Encourage trails around development County, Towns  
Adopt zoning that minimizes impervious surfaces, allows multi-story buildings, and allows for more natural area for carbon sequestration County, Towns Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Promote building materials reuse
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
ACTION: Promote building materials reuse
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Promote the reuse of building materials and organizations whose function is collection and reuse of these materials County, Towns  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Promote preservation of historic structures
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
ACTION: Promote preservation of historic structures
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Adopt zoning incentives to reuse historic buildings (such as flexibility in dimensional standards, lot coverage bonuses, and simplified review processes) County, Towns, Civic Organizations  
Adopt zoning limits for new construction on lots where historic buildings have been demolished (allow less than can be constructed elsewhere) County, Towns, Civic Organizations  
Create/expand historic districts where preservation of historic buildings can be required County, Towns, Civic Organizations  
Toughen demolition delay bylaws with extended delay periods County, Towns, Civic Organizations  
Highlight how reusing historic structures preserves old growth materials, reduces carbon emissions from construction, and reduces resource consumption of new materials (develop a storymap or other graphic illustration) County, Towns, Civic Organizations  
Promote examples of successful weatherization upgrades to historic structures County, Towns, Civic Organizations  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Promote composting
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
ACTION: Promote composting
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Municipalities and regional entities can apply for grant funding under MassDEP Sustainable Materials Recovery Program to help implement municipal food waste collection programs or subsidize home composting bins. County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Civic Organizations  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Reduce plastic consumption
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
ACTION: Reduce plastic consumption
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Support local repair shops, fix-it clinics, Library of Things, or municipal transfer station swap shops. Utilize MassDEP Sustainable Materials Recovery Program grants to implement municipal programs of these types. County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Civic Organizations Businesses can carry and promote the use of climate friendly building products, whether recycled or with fewer manufacturing emissions.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Enhance recycling programs
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
ACTION: Enhance recycling programs
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Educate on and enforce recycling bylaws County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Civic Organizations  
Create partnerships between non-profits and municipalities to advance recycling (e.g., Take Care Cape Cod) County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Civic Organizations  
Adopt Pay-As-You-Throw programs. Municipalities and regional entities can apply for grant funding under MassDEP Sustainable Materials Recovery Program to help implement municipal PAYT programs. County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Civic Organizations  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Explore regional waste management and collection agreements
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
STRATEGY: Increase diversion of waste from landfills in the short-term; eliminate sending waste to landfills in the long-term
ACTION: Explore regional waste management and collection agreements
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Support the regional waste management operations such as glass recycling in Dennis, boat shrink wrap recycling program, regional HHW collection events, regional mattress collection sites, regional latex paint recycling collection. County, Towns  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Capture methane
STRATEGY: Reduce landfill emissions
STRATEGY: Reduce landfill emissions
ACTION: Capture methane
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Reduce the regulatory barriers to capturing and converting methane to energy State, County  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Develop, approve, and fund wastewater treatment plans; collaborate with neighboring communities when appropriate
STRATEGY: Improve efficiency of wastewater treatment systems
STRATEGY: Improve efficiency of wastewater treatment systems
ACTION: Develop, approve, and fund wastewater treatment plans; collaborate with neighboring communities when appropriate
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Continue to work on priority watershed planning as identified in the Cape Cod Section 208 Area Wide Water Quality Management Plan County, Towns  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Improve operational efficiencies of wastewater treatment facilities
STRATEGY: Improve efficiency of wastewater treatment systems
STRATEGY: Improve efficiency of wastewater treatment systems
ACTION: Improve operational efficiencies of wastewater treatment facilities
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Utilize U.S. Dept. of Energy’s Sustainable Wastewater Infrastructure of the Future (SWIFt) Initiative to improve WWTF energy use (toolkit available) Towns  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Reduce GHG emissions from waste management systems

ACTION: Observe good maintenance practices of plants
STRATEGY: Improve efficiency of wastewater treatment systems
STRATEGY: Improve efficiency of wastewater treatment systems
ACTION: Observe good maintenance practices of plants
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Wastewater treatment plants should consider upgrades that may reduce energy use and carbon footprint, such as upgrading pump stations, optimizing aeration, and managing sludge, among others. Towns  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Explore remedies to state regulatory barriers that delay or prevent solutions to resiliency problems
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in public infrastructure
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in public infrastructure
ACTION: Explore remedies to state regulatory barriers that delay or prevent solutions to resiliency problems
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Communicate with state agency staff, legislative delegation about regulatory barriers State, County Assess and examine the regulatory barriers to certain public infrastructure projects.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Assess and correct vulnerabilities in utility infrastructure
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in public infrastructure
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in public infrastructure
ACTION: Assess and correct vulnerabilities in utility infrastructure
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Address threats to the electricity distribution network from wildfire, storms, and flooding Towns, Utilities Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Locate utility lines underground Towns, Utilities Install underground utilities for all new construction and as streets are opened for other construction needs.
Address threats to wastewater collection facilities from flooding Towns, Utilities Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Conduct vulnerability assessments of municipal facilities and carry out recommendations
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in public infrastructure
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in public infrastructure
ACTION: Conduct vulnerability assessments of municipal facilities and carry out recommendations
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Assess community shelters and critical facilities State, County, Towns, Research Organizations Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Conduct Stormtide pathways analyses where not yet complete (Nantucket Sound shoreline and Buzzards Bay) State, County, Towns, Research Organizations Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Develop guidance on planning for long-range sea level rise scenarios State, County, Towns, Research Organizations Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Support communities in updating their hazard mitigation plans State, County, Towns, Research Organizations Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Map or update mapping of municipal assets State, County, Towns, Research Organizations Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Adopt uniform regulations region-wide to limit new development and redevelopment in the floodplain and vulnerable areas
STRATEGY: Identify a uniform approach to managing development in coastal resource areas region-wide
STRATEGY: Identify a uniform approach to managing development in coastal resource areas region-wide
ACTION: Adopt uniform regulations region-wide to limit new development and redevelopment in the floodplain and vulnerable areas
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify best practices for Conservation Commissions to address properties vulnerable to erosion and/or flooding County, Towns, Research Organizations Develop model bylaws to limit development in vulnerable areas, identify best practices for redeveloping in vulnerable areas, and identify appropriate strategies for conservation commissions and other town boards to take to remediate erosion and/or flooding that may impact vulnerable properties.
Explore methods to reduce new development in flood hazard areas County, Towns, Research Organizations Develop model bylaws to limit development in vulnerable areas, identify best practices for redeveloping in vulnerable areas, and identify appropriate strategies for conservation commissions and other town boards to take to remediate erosion and/or flooding that may impact vulnerable properties.
Identify ways to protect public access to the coast as vulnerable areas become increasingly accessible only to those with means County, Towns, Research Organizations Develop model bylaws to limit development in vulnerable areas, identify best practices for redeveloping in vulnerable areas, and identify appropriate strategies for conservation commissions and other town boards to take to remediate erosion and/or flooding that may impact vulnerable properties.
Draft and adopt floodplain bylaws to address development and redevelopment in vulnerable areas County, Towns, Research Organizations Develop model bylaws to limit development in vulnerable areas, identify best practices for redeveloping in vulnerable areas, and identify appropriate strategies for conservation commissions and other town boards to take to remediate erosion and/or flooding that may impact vulnerable properties.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Develop regional sediment management plans
STRATEGY: Identify a uniform approach to managing development in coastal resource areas region-wide
STRATEGY: Identify a uniform approach to managing development in coastal resource areas region-wide
ACTION: Develop regional sediment management plans
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Consider nature-based alternatives to address the sediment transport dynamics at vulnerable locations State, County, Research Organizations, Consultants Develop model bylaws to limit development in vulnerable areas, identify best practices for redeveloping in vulnerable areas, and identify appropriate strategies for conservation commissions and other town boards to take to remediate erosion and/or flooding that may impact vulnerable properties.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Look at remedies to the challenges of private property ownership in coastal hazard areas
STRATEGY: Identify a uniform approach to managing development in coastal resource areas region-wide
STRATEGY: Identify a uniform approach to managing development in coastal resource areas region-wide
ACTION: Look at remedies to the challenges of private property ownership in coastal hazard areas
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Investigate legal remedies to coastal private property ownership/management State, County, Towns Develop model bylaws to limit development in vulnerable areas, identify best practices for redeveloping in vulnerable areas, and identify appropriate strategies for conservation commissions and other town boards to take to remediate erosion and/or flooding that may impact vulnerable properties.
Protect properties using green or nature-based solutions, or buy-out and "undevelop" with willing owners State, County, Towns Develop model bylaws to limit development in vulnerable areas, identify best practices for redeveloping in vulnerable areas, and identify appropriate strategies for conservation commissions and other town boards to take to remediate erosion and/or flooding that may impact vulnerable properties.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Consider a coastal District of Critical Planning Concern
STRATEGY: Identify a uniform approach to managing development in coastal resource areas region-wide
STRATEGY: Identify a uniform approach to managing development in coastal resource areas region-wide
ACTION: Consider a coastal District of Critical Planning Concern
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Explore local interest in and support for uniform coastal development regulations County, Towns Develop model bylaws to limit development in vulnerable areas, identify best practices for redeveloping in vulnerable areas, and identify appropriate strategies for conservation commissions and other town boards to take to remediate erosion and/or flooding that may impact vulnerable properties.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Elevate buildings
STRATEGY: Retrofit buildings located within climate hazard areas
STRATEGY: Retrofit buildings located within climate hazard areas
ACTION: Elevate buildings
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Adopt bylaws and regulations that help guide the form and design of elevated buildings. Utilize FEMA FMA or BRIC grants to support this action. Towns, Individuals Adopt bylaws and regulations that help guide the form and design of elevated buildings.
Adopt bylaws and design guidelines to limit expansion of building silhouette, maintain sloped roof forms, and leave open areas below buildings Towns, Individuals Adopt bylaws and regulations that help guide the form and design of elevated buildings.
Work with building inspectors, planning boards, zoning boards of appeal, and historic district boards to ensure consistent goals Towns, Individuals Adopt bylaws and regulations that help guide the form and design of elevated buildings.
Develop and distribute brochures about flood hazards and potential solutions to property owners in flood-risk areas; work with realtors for distribution of materials Towns, Individuals Adopt bylaws and regulations that help guide the form and design of elevated buildings.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Floodproof or retrofit buildings to withstand flooding
STRATEGY: Retrofit buildings located within climate hazard areas
STRATEGY: Retrofit buildings located within climate hazard areas
ACTION: Floodproof or retrofit buildings to withstand flooding
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Install break-away walls or move utilities and HVAC systems to upper levels of a building Towns, Individuals Install break-away walls or move utilities and HVAC systems to upper levels of a building.
Consider floodproofing with fully removable insertable barriers (like Aquastop) in non-residential situations Towns, Individuals Install break-away walls or move utilities and HVAC systems to upper levels of a building.
Develop and distribute brochures about flood hazards and potential solutions to property owners in flood-risk areas. Work with realtors for distribution of materials Towns, Individuals Install break-away walls or move utilities and HVAC systems to upper levels of a building.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Improve stormwater management through culvert retrofits and other stormwater best management practices
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in the road network
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in the road network
ACTION: Improve stormwater management through culvert retrofits and other stormwater best management practices
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Update stormwater management design protocols (design for increased rainfall) State, County, Towns  
Coordinate with MassDOT on State highway and roadway projects, resolve areas of overlapping authority State, County, Towns  
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Assess low-lying and key roads and take appropriate action
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in the road network
STRATEGY: Address vulnerabilities in the road network
ACTION: Assess low-lying and key roads and take appropriate action
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Protect coastal land, elevate roads, utilize green solutions, or relocate State, County, Towns Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Consider regional access routes and impacts from storms (including utility lines over regional roadways such as the Mid-Cape Highway) State, County, Towns Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Move buildings and infrastructure out of the floodplain
STRATEGY: Relocate vulnerable buildings and structures
STRATEGY: Relocate vulnerable buildings and structures
ACTION: Move buildings and infrastructure out of the floodplain
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify buildings in the most vulnerable locations State, County, Towns, Individuals Assess at the municipal level the nature and the level of risk that facilites face.
Identify locations for relocation State, County, Towns, Individuals Assess where the most vulnerable locations are and the buildings and structures under the greatest threat, and develop a plan for relocating certain structures.
Establish a buy-out program for vulnerable properties State, County, Towns, Individuals Assess where the most vulnerable locations are and the buildings and structures under the greatest threat, and develop a plan for relocating certain structures.
Relocate and repurpose structures in vulnerable areas State, County, Towns, Individuals Assess where the most vulnerable locations are and the buildings and structures under the greatest threat, and develop a plan for relocating certain structures.
Housing and Development
GOAL: Improve and advance the resilience of the built environment

ACTION: Adopt policies that ensure new infrastructure is designed to address climate change threats
STRATEGY: Ensure regional policies promote long-term infrastructure resiliency
STRATEGY: Ensure regional policies promote long-term infrastructure resiliency
ACTION: Adopt policies that ensure new infrastructure is designed to address climate change threats
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Utilize the state's RMAT tool to identify opportunities and limitations in designing new infrastructure State, County, Towns Install underground utilities for all new construction and as streets are opened for other construction needs.
Adopt town bylaws that require consideration for future sea level rise and future flood extents consistent with projected lifespan of the infrastructure Towns Install underground utilities for all new construction and as streets are opened for other construction needs.
Stormwater systems and transportation infrastructure (culverts) should be designed to consider changes in rainfall volumes Towns Install underground utilities for all new construction and as streets are opened for other construction needs.
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Facilitate renewable energy investment
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
ACTION: Facilitate renewable energy investment
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Encourage community partners to finance and install renewable systems on private and public facilities Schools, Businesses, Utilities  
Train workers in renewable energy technology, installations, retrofits, and servicing Schools, Businesses, Utilities  
Encourage businesses to invest in renewable energy for business operations as well as branding strategy (hotels, restaurants, retailers, service industries, etc.) Schools, Businesses, Utilities  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Use clean energy sources in municipal operations
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
ACTION: Use clean energy sources in municipal operations
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Support investment in electric municipal vehicles Towns Acquire electric vehicles for municipal needs, like inspection and emergency vehicles.
Incorporate the use of solar/renewable energy into bylaws for town projects Towns Towns can also establish new procurement rules to specify solar readiness in municipal structures.
Support development of emergency generators that use renewable fuels and on-site storage in case of emergencies; develop microgrids Towns  
Encourage municipalities to purchase more renewable energy Towns, Utilities Specify clean energy in electricity source purchasing.
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Encourage renewable energy installations that limit new clearing and loss of sequestered carbon
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
ACTION: Encourage renewable energy installations that limit new clearing and loss of sequestered carbon
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Support new renewable energy projects, appropriately sited County, Towns  
Develop and adopt a model solar bylaw; review existing bylaws for effectiveness County, Towns  
Create incentives to generate local, onsite renewable energy County, Towns  
Engage historic commissions to find common ground on renewable energy installations in historic districts. Address reversibility of solar installations and key areas to avoid visual impact of solar panels, but also acknowledge difference between historic districts created under MGL 40C and those created by Special Legislation County, Towns  
Develop design guidelines for solar canopies County, Towns  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Decarbonize industrial processes
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
ACTION: Decarbonize industrial processes
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Ensure use of scrubbers at industrial facilities State, Towns, Businesses  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Identify safe affordable renewable energy sources
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
ACTION: Identify safe affordable renewable energy sources
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Continue to support bulk clean power purchase agreements State, Towns, Utilities Specify clean energy in electricity source purchasing.
Establish energy financing districts; offer renewable energy system financing to small commercial properties State, Towns, Utilities  
Increase the mix of renewable energy options in the power supply State, Towns, Utilities Specify clean energy in electricity source purchasing.
Support renewable biomethane State, Towns, Utilities Evaluate the potential for using alternative sources of energy.
Investigate potential for combined heat and power generating facilities State, Towns, Utilities Evaluate the potential for using alternative sources of energy.
Support hydroelectric power; tidal power State, Towns, Utilities Evaluate the potential for using alternative sources of energy.
Capture methane from municipal solid waste landfills State, Towns, Utilities Evaluate the potential for using alternative sources of energy.
Incorporate geothermal heating and cooling pumps State, Towns, Utilities Evaluate the potential for using alternative sources of energy.
Explore potential to mine plastic from landfills to turn into diesel fuel State, Towns, Utilities Evaluate the potential for using alternative sources of energy.
Investigate ability to repurpose and/or recycle renewable energy components at end-of-life State, Towns, Utilities  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Engage renewable energy consumers as possible producers
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
ACTION: Engage renewable energy consumers as possible producers
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Educate businesses and homeowners with renewable energy generation onsite, and EV owners, about means to provide energy back to grid in times of need State, Towns, Utilities  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Explore potential offshore wind tech jobs, operations center on-Cape
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
STRATEGY: Generate and increase the use of safe, reliable, and clean energy
ACTION: Explore potential offshore wind tech jobs, operations center on-Cape
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Train workers to service offshore wind installations, with access from Cape Cod Schools, Businesses, Utilities  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Support expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging network
STRATEGY: Modernize and optimize the grid
STRATEGY: Modernize and optimize the grid
ACTION: Support expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging network
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Develop options for fully charged EV auto rental service State, County, Utilities, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Develop/support programs to reward tourists for utilizing local EV rentals State, County, Utilities, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Develop criteria for the placement of charging stations and the level of charging and identify locations for new or expanded EV charging infrastructure, including buses State, County, Utilities, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Electrify all appropriate municipal vehicles, including emergency response vehicles and heavy equipment State, County, Utilities, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Support development of storage capability/battery technology
STRATEGY: Modernize and optimize the grid
STRATEGY: Modernize and optimize the grid
ACTION: Support development of storage capability/battery technology
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Promote customer adoption of small-scale energy storage CLC, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Establish and ensure that best practices are followed for installation CLC, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Support efforts to demonstrate warranty battery safety and educate planning/permitting agencies CLC, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Work to ensure that the electric distribution company, Eversource, allows private installation and ownership of battery storage CLC, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Encourage towns and other municipal organizations to develop storage to pair with their existing solar in order to levelize their electric usage CLC, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Utilize EV rental depot for battery storage deployment at utility scale CLC, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Work with utilities on hosting capacity of feeders CLC, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Promote time-of-use rates, with equity considerations CLC, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Understand potential demand and capacity needs, plan for grid upgrades, and work toward grid decentralization
STRATEGY: Modernize and optimize the grid
STRATEGY: Modernize and optimize the grid
ACTION: Understand potential demand and capacity needs, plan for grid upgrades, and work toward grid decentralization
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify potential offshore energy landfalls State, County, CLC, Utilities, Businesses  
Understand potential electricity demand with electrification of overall energy demand State, County, CLC, Utilities, Businesses  
Understand capacity of existing transmission corridors, substations State, County, CLC, Utilities, Businesses  
Understand net-metering and municipal generation capacity limits; explore remedies State, County, CLC, Utilities, Businesses  
Promote decentralized microgrids State, County, CLC, Utilities, Businesses  
Analyze the solar canopy installation potential of each town State, County, CLC, Utilities, Businesses  
Promote the use of electric equipment for homeowners (e.g., electric lawn mowers) State, County, CLC, Utilities, Businesses  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Work toward managing electricity demand
STRATEGY: Modernize and optimize the grid
STRATEGY: Modernize and optimize the grid
ACTION: Work toward managing electricity demand
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Educate public about peak demand times State, CLC, Utilities  
Educate public about conservation, and utilizing technology to reduce demand (e.g., smart thermostats) State, CLC, Utilities  
Promote peak load reductions State, CLC, Utilities  
Energy
GOAL: Increase the production and use of clean energy

ACTION: Support efforts to pass bylaws and adopt stretch code
STRATEGY: Achieve Green Communities designation in all Cape towns
STRATEGY: Achieve Green Communities designation in all Cape towns
ACTION: Support efforts to pass bylaws and adopt stretch code
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Educate communities and decision makers; attend community meetings and hearings County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm.
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Improve broadband access across Cape Cod
STRATEGY: Reduce vehicle miles traveled
STRATEGY: Reduce vehicle miles traveled
ACTION: Improve broadband access across Cape Cod
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify funding sources for broadband expansion OpenCape, County, Towns  
Support needed regional and local studies/last mile buildout plan OpenCape, County, Towns  
Support residential pilot program OpenCape, Towns  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Support work from home policies
STRATEGY: Reduce vehicle miles traveled
STRATEGY: Reduce vehicle miles traveled
ACTION: Support work from home policies
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Provide for needed technological upgrades including broadband County, Towns, Businesses  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Support virtual civic and business meetings
STRATEGY: Reduce vehicle miles traveled
STRATEGY: Reduce vehicle miles traveled
ACTION: Support virtual civic and business meetings
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Incentivize businesses and towns to hold meetings virtually County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Support legislation to waive requirement for in-person majority present for committee and board meetings County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Explore pricing mechanisms that incentivize GHG reduction strategies and funding other strategies
STRATEGY: Reduce vehicle miles traveled
STRATEGY: Reduce vehicle miles traveled
ACTION: Explore pricing mechanisms that incentivize GHG reduction strategies and funding other strategies
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Follow discussions of state agencies and/or legislature to incorporate the externalities of the traditional carbon-based transportation system into fuel costs County, State  
Work with state agencies and/or legislature to ensure that any new revenues are invested equitably County, State  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Encourage carpooling and ridesharing
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
ACTION: Encourage carpooling and ridesharing
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify carpooling/ridesharing apps (e.g., SmartDOT app) State, County, Towns, Businesses, Civic Organizations, CCRTA  
Engage senior centers, community centers in ridesharing programs State, County, Towns, Businesses, Civic Organizations, CCRTA  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Expansion and improvements of park and ride facilities
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
ACTION: Expansion and improvements of park and ride facilities
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Continue data collection efforts at existing park and ride facilities State, CCC  
Analyze anticipated future park and ride demand State, County, Towns  
Review park and ride operations State  
Conduct feasibility study for expansion of park and ride facilites State  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Improved coordination between modes
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
ACTION: Improved coordination between modes
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Work to ensure that public transportation vehicles have sufficient bike racks. State, County, CCRTA  
Explore the feasibility of bus stops at popular rail trail heads. County, Towns, CCRTA  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Reduce parking standards/requirements
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
ACTION: Reduce parking standards/requirements
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Develop guidance on revisions to local parking standards/requirements County, Towns  
Review and consider revisions to parking standards/requirements County, Towns  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Improve and expand the public transit network
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
ACTION: Improve and expand the public transit network
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Promote existing services State, County, Towns, CCRTA, Civic Organizations, Chambers of Commerce, Councils on Aging, Airports, Private carriers  
Expand routes State, County, Towns, CCRTA, Civic Organizations  
Expand service days/hours State, County, Towns, CCRTA, Civic Organizations  
Increase frequency on busy routes State, County, Towns, CCRTA, Civic Organizations  
Improve predictability/reliability State, County, Towns, CCRTA, Civic Organizations  
Provide free or greatly subsidized transit service to encourage increased use State, County, Towns, CCRTA, Civic Organizations  
Encourage use of electric vehicles for ride share State, County, Towns, CCRTA, Civic Organizations  
Encourage the use of cleaner fuels for fleet vehicles, including school buses State, County, Towns, CCRTA, Civic Organizations  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Expand passenger rail service
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
ACTION: Expand passenger rail service
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Explore the feasibility of expanded passenger rail service State, County, CCRTA  
Consider local/light rail service (intra-Cape) State, County, CCRTA  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Expand and improve the bicyclist and pedestrian network as alternate transportation modes
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
ACTION: Expand and improve the bicyclist and pedestrian network as alternate transportation modes
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Encourage adoption of Complete Streets policies State, County, Towns, Cape Cod National Seashore  
Retrofit existing roads to accommodate non-motorists State, County, Towns, Cape Cod National Seashore  
Educate public about sharing roads for multiple transportation modes State, County, Towns, Cape Cod National Seashore  
Support bicycle share and rental programs State, County, Towns, Cape Cod National Seashore  
Expand bicycle infrastructure (including bicycle racks, fix-it stations, lighting, and safe connections) State, County, Towns, Cape Cod National Seashore  
Encourage responsible use of electric bicycles State, County, Towns, Cape Cod National Seashore  
Support safe routes to schools efforts State, County, Towns, Cape Cod National Seashore  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Consider new water transportation options
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
STRATEGY: Enhance public transportation, bicycling, walking, and shared transportation options
ACTION: Consider new water transportation options
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Conduct a feasibility study to understand the potential demand, costs, and operational models for new water transportation options State, Steamship Authority, CCC  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Support investments in EV infrastructure and programs that incentivize EV adoption, for Cape residents and visitors
STRATEGY: Accelerate the electrification of the transportation system
STRATEGY: Accelerate the electrification of the transportation system
ACTION: Support investments in EV infrastructure and programs that incentivize EV adoption, for Cape residents and visitors
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify opportunities for and support the development of additional public EV charging stations State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations Residential and commercial developments and redevelopments should be designed and built with EVs in mind.
Update zoning to encourage EV spaces and charging stations in new development and redevelopment State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations Residential and commercial developments and redevelopments should be designed and built with EVs in mind.
Develop programs to reward utilizing local EV rentals State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Support renewable energy production/battery storage/charging at transportation terminals and parking lots where people park for extended periods State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Explore barriers to expanded battery storage State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Promote electrification of municipal fleets State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Support financing options for EV purchases and infrastructure State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Support car shows promoting EVs and education and outreach to promote EV usage State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Work with private auto companies and dealerships to promote EVs State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Consider adaptability to future technologies (ex. hydrogen power) State, County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Electrify public transit vehicles
STRATEGY: Accelerate the electrification of the transportation system
STRATEGY: Accelerate the electrification of the transportation system
ACTION: Electrify public transit vehicles
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Conduct an electric bus feasibility study State, County, CCRTA, other agencies with buses  
Advance electric bus pilot programs State, County, CCRTA, other agencies with buses  
Where feasible, support the purchase of electric buses State, County, CCRTA, other agencies with buses  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Electrify vehicle fleets (municipal vehicles, school buses, police vehicles, delivery vehicles, etc.)
STRATEGY: Accelerate the electrification of the transportation system
STRATEGY: Accelerate the electrification of the transportation system
ACTION: Electrify vehicle fleets (municipal vehicles, school buses, police vehicles, delivery vehicles, etc.)
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Conduct feasibility study of the conversion potential of vehicle fleets State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Prioritize fleets for conversion State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Support towns’ acquisition of EVs for heavy duty vehicles State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Support towns in the conversion of municipal vehicle fleets State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Electrify ocean-based transport (personal watercraft, commercial fleets, improve dockside infrastructure, etc.)
STRATEGY: Accelerate the electrification of the transportation system
STRATEGY: Accelerate the electrification of the transportation system
ACTION: Electrify ocean-based transport (personal watercraft, commercial fleets, improve dockside infrastructure, etc.)
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Provide dockside EV and electric charging infrastructure State, County, Towns, Businesses  
Support incentives for electric watercraft State, County, Towns, Businesses  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Address inefficient traffic signals, upgrades
STRATEGY: Make efficiency improvements to the transportation system
STRATEGY: Make efficiency improvements to the transportation system
ACTION: Address inefficient traffic signals, upgrades
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Re-time signals and, where appropriate, install adaptive signals State, Towns  
Consider replacing with roundabout State, Towns  
Support LED upgrades State, County, Towns  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Address bottleneck locations (congested roadways and intersections)
STRATEGY: Make efficiency improvements to the transportation system
STRATEGY: Make efficiency improvements to the transportation system
ACTION: Address bottleneck locations (congested roadways and intersections)
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify and implement solutions for bottleneck locations identified in the Cape Cod Congestion Management Plan State, County, Towns  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Support idling policies
STRATEGY: Make efficiency improvements to the transportation system
STRATEGY: Make efficiency improvements to the transportation system
ACTION: Support idling policies
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Enforce state idling laws County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Provide outreach and awareness on the effects of idling County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Improve the efficiency of freight movement (including waste) by all modes (on-road, rail, and waterborne)
STRATEGY: Make efficiency improvements to the transportation system
STRATEGY: Make efficiency improvements to the transportation system
ACTION: Improve the efficiency of freight movement (including waste) by all modes (on-road, rail, and waterborne)
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Incentivize freight movement by the mode with the lowest emissions generation State, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Consider incentives for deliveries made by EVs State, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: See Housing & Development Strategy to promote efficient land use policies and development patterns
STRATEGY: Encourage more efficient land use patterns
STRATEGY: Encourage more efficient land use patterns
ACTION: See Housing & Development Strategy to promote efficient land use policies and development patterns
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Housing and Development Strategy: Promote efficient land use policies and development patterns that protect the nature and character of the region - see the many steps under this strategy. County, Towns, Civic Organizations  
Transportation
GOAL: Reduce emissions from the transportation sector

ACTION: Promote Transit Oriented Development (TOD)
STRATEGY: Encourage more efficient land use patterns
STRATEGY: Encourage more efficient land use patterns
ACTION: Promote Transit Oriented Development (TOD)
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Encourage smart growth and smart development State, County, Towns  
Expand rail service State, County, Towns  
Prioritize bicycle and pedestrian improvements that provide connections to TOD State, County, Towns  
Transportation
GOAL: Improve the resilience of the transportation system to the impacts of climate change

ACTION: Elevate, relocate, or abandon low-lying roads
STRATEGY: Adapt critical transportation infrastructure for climate change impacts
STRATEGY: Adapt critical transportation infrastructure for climate change impacts
ACTION: Elevate, relocate, or abandon low-lying roads
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Conduct vulnerability assessments and prioritize low-lying roads based on their transportation criticality State, County, Towns Assessment of evacuation and emergency response routes are needed to ensure safety during flooding events and other climate-related disasters.
Identify grants to support design development and become "shovel-ready" State, County, Towns Assessment of evacuation and emergency response routes are needed to ensure safety during flooding events and other climate-related disasters.
Transportation
GOAL: Improve the resilience of the transportation system to the impacts of climate change

ACTION: Identify and address deficient culverts and bridges
STRATEGY: Adapt critical transportation infrastructure for climate change impacts
STRATEGY: Adapt critical transportation infrastructure for climate change impacts
ACTION: Identify and address deficient culverts and bridges
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Map deficient culverts and bridges and prioritize improvements State, County, Towns Assessment of evacuation and emergency response routes are needed to ensure safety during flooding events and other climate-related disasters.
Conduct vulnerability assessments and prioritize culverts and bridges based on transportation criticality, level of risk, and design life State, County, Towns Assessment of evacuation and emergency response routes are needed to ensure safety during flooding events and other climate-related disasters.
Identify grants to support design development and become "shovel-ready" State, County, Towns Assessment of evacuation and emergency response routes are needed to ensure safety during flooding events and other climate-related disasters.
Transportation
GOAL: Improve the resilience of the transportation system to the impacts of climate change

ACTION: Evaluate and address evacuation route vulnerabilities/potentially disconnected area
STRATEGY: Adapt critical transportation infrastructure for climate change impacts
STRATEGY: Adapt critical transportation infrastructure for climate change impacts
ACTION: Evaluate and address evacuation route vulnerabilities/potentially disconnected area
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Consider regional access routes and impacts from storms (including utility lines over regional roadways such as the Mid-Cape Highway) State, County, Towns Assessment of evacuation and emergency response routes are needed to ensure safety during flooding events and other climate-related disasters.
Transportation
GOAL: Improve the resilience of the transportation system to the impacts of climate change

ACTION: Redesign for future precipitation/storm patterns
STRATEGY: Design transportation infrastructure for future conditions
STRATEGY: Design transportation infrastructure for future conditions
ACTION: Redesign for future precipitation/storm patterns
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Update stormwater management design protocols (design for increased rainfall) State, County, Towns, Research Organizations Assessment of evacuation and emergency response routes are needed to ensure safety during flooding events and other climate-related disasters.
Use the state's RMAT tools to assess future flood risk and rainfall volumes, and adjust design standards for transportation infrastructure accordingly State, County, Towns, Research Organizations Assessment of evacuation and emergency response routes are needed to ensure safety during flooding events and other climate-related disasters.
Transportation
GOAL: Improve the resilience of the transportation system to the impacts of climate change

ACTION: Planning for the impact of increased temperature/heat events
STRATEGY: Design transportation infrastructure for future conditions
STRATEGY: Design transportation infrastructure for future conditions
ACTION: Planning for the impact of increased temperature/heat events
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Incorporate additional plantings in roadway and development projects to combat heat islands State, County, Towns, Businesses  
Utilize alternatives to asphalt roadway and development projects to combat heat islands State, County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Review and consider revisions to roadway design standards State, County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Analyze potential impacts of increased temperatures on transit operations CCRTA  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Maintain and increase parks and open spaces
STRATEGY: Reduce emissions by increasing protected open space, parks, and tree canopy
STRATEGY: Reduce emissions by increasing protected open space, parks, and tree canopy
ACTION: Maintain and increase parks and open spaces
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Work with towns and land trusts to increase protected open space with public access wherever appropriate State, County, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations Support and fund the continued acquisition and permanent protection of woodlands, wetlands, and key parcels.
Develop new sources of funding for open space and park land acquisitions and maintenance State, County, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Identify new ways to protect open space (ex. regulations or TDR incentives) State, County, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Inventory and map areas that have been protected. Identify where open space is missing and what land is available for protection; Identify and map remaining areas available for protection and prioritize what is to be protected State, County, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations Prioritize land to be protected and identify where additional protected land is needed.
Quantify the tree canopy in residential areas and identify strategies to preserve that existing tree canopy State, County, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Provide education on the importance and benefits of the tree canopy State, County, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Create regulations for limiting new clearing and grading State, County, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Educate the public about the benefits of open space State, County, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Urban reforestation - Plant trees or increase urban tree canopy
STRATEGY: Reduce emissions by increasing protected open space, parks, and tree canopy
STRATEGY: Reduce emissions by increasing protected open space, parks, and tree canopy
ACTION: Urban reforestation - Plant trees or increase urban tree canopy
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify shade-starved areas and support tree planting programs Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, Individuals Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Plant trees strategically to provide building shading or cooling benefits Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, Individuals  
Create parks and green spaces on abandoned or underutilized spaces Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, Individuals Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Work with towns and land trusts to increase parks in Activity Centers Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, Individuals Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Work with towns and non-profits to increase the tree canopy in Activity Centers Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, Individuals Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Incorporate trees into the design of LID or stormwater projects Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, Individuals  
Encourage undergrounding of utilities; which achieves better streetscape and resiliency Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, Individuals  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Reforestation of disturbed areas
STRATEGY: Reduce emissions by increasing protected open space, parks, and tree canopy
STRATEGY: Reduce emissions by increasing protected open space, parks, and tree canopy
ACTION: Reforestation of disturbed areas
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify disturbed areas suitable for reforestation and support tree planting programs Research Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations, Towns, Individuals Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Avoid conversion of natural areas to prevent development sprawl
STRATEGY: Avoid new conversion of land uses
STRATEGY: Avoid new conversion of land uses
ACTION: Avoid conversion of natural areas to prevent development sprawl
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Investigate adoption of TDR bylaws or other changes to zoning to enable this vision County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Promote compact mixed-use development downtown and in Activity Centers, where infrastructure can support it County, Towns, Research Organizations Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Create incentives to build and infill in Activity Centers and away from natural areas County, Towns, Research Organizations Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Invest in infill development, support local and regional policies that make redevelopment more affordable than new development County, Towns, Research Organizations Towns can work to change zoning in core areas in their communities to allow for a mix of land uses in a single area.
Encourage solar development on rooftops, parking lots, and already disturbed lands County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Demonstrate the benefits of maintaining tree cover for nitrogen uptake and managing coastal water quality (N loading calculations) County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Identify the types of forests cleared, and for what purpose; develop policies to disincentivize tree clearing County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Create tree ordinances or bylaws that restrict the removal of specimen trees or trees over a certain size (suggested 3-inch DBH) County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Use subdivision regulations to limit maximum building area County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Educate property owners on importance of native plant species and habitats County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Limit ecosystem stressors by reducing threats such as habitat conversion and fragmentation (i.e.
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
ACTION: Limit ecosystem stressors by reducing threats such as habitat conversion and fragmentation (i.e.
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Adopt bylaws to limit clearing and grading; other land use controls to minimize fragmentation of remaining habitats (see also Housing and Development) County, Towns, Schools, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Prevent the introduction and establishment of invasive species and control existing damaging invasive species County, Towns, Schools, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations  
Increase monitoring for invasive species (especially at pathways for infestation, such as trailheads and roads) County, Towns, Schools, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations  
Control invasive species through physical or chemical treatments County, Towns, Schools, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations  
Clean equipment prior to activities to avoid introduction of species to a new environment County, Towns, Schools, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations  
Educate on invasive species identification and notification protocols; engage landscapers to promote best management practices County, Towns, Schools, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations  
Engage volunteers, including college students, researchers to address other ecosystem stressors County, Towns, Schools, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Protect ecosystems of sufficient size
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
ACTION: Protect ecosystems of sufficient size
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Expand the boundaries of existing open space County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Identify opportunities to acquire/protect lands adjacent to existing open space County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Identify new funding sources County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Protect ecosystems across a range of environmental settings
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
ACTION: Protect ecosystems across a range of environmental settings
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Inventory natural communities to identify those important for protection and restoration State, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Protect multiple example ecosystems to capture redundancy
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
ACTION: Protect multiple example ecosystems to capture redundancy
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Inventory existing and potential protected open space to identify natural communities protected and those requiring additional acres protected County, Research Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Maintain large-scale ecosystem processes and prevent habitat isolation
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
ACTION: Maintain large-scale ecosystem processes and prevent habitat isolation
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Protect intact unprotected corridors connecting large habitat areas County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Identify important habitat connections and undevelop key parcels, as opportunities arise County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations Promote the benefits of open space and maintaining the tree canopy.
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Embrace adaptive management to allow for the changing characteristics of natural communities
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
ACTION: Embrace adaptive management to allow for the changing characteristics of natural communities
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Preserve options for habitat adaptation and migration in a changing climate County, Towns, Research Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Towns can consider requiring trees as part of landscaping and stormwater management requirements.
Understand the processes that contribute to a habitat’s natural adaptation County, Towns, Research Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Expect and plan for species losses and gains (i.e. changes in species assemblages) County, Towns, Research Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Favor or restore native species that are expected to be adapted to future conditions; incorporate anticipated vegetation changes into restoration practices County, Towns, Research Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Establish or encourage new mixes of native species that may be a suitable combination under future conditions County, Towns, Research Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Manage for species with wide moisture and temperature tolerances County, Towns, Research Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Require prompt revegetation of sites following severe disturbance County, Towns, Research Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Allow for areas of natural regeneration to test for future-adapted species County, Towns, Research Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Promote improved, better integrated, and increasingly coordinated monitoring systems to detect, track, and attribute species and habitat shifts to climate change over spatiotemporal scale County, Towns, Research Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Use nature-based adaptation solutions
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
ACTION: Use nature-based adaptation solutions
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Consider soft engineering approaches as alternatives to hard engineering solutions during project planning, design, site plan review, and permitting Towns, Businesses, Individuals  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Develop a unified vision or regional plan for collaborative conservation of natural resources
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
ACTION: Develop a unified vision or regional plan for collaborative conservation of natural resources
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Use State Wildlife Action Plan, BioMap2, Pine Barrens Green Infrastructure Map, and Mass Wildlife Climate Action Tool as resources for protection and restoration County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Remove/reduce environmental review/permitting barriers to restoration projects
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
STRATEGY: Maintain ecosystem diversity, including conservation of the natural communities within the Pine Barrens ecoregion
ACTION: Remove/reduce environmental review/permitting barriers to restoration projects
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Review/revise state and local regulations State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Coordinate funding State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Increase technical support State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Expand public outreach and education State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Protect, restore, and enhance riparian areas (river and associated wetland buffers)
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
ACTION: Protect, restore, and enhance riparian areas (river and associated wetland buffers)
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Restore native communities and ecosystem components (e.g., natural groundcover, litter layer, coarse woody debris) in riparian areas State, Towns, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Plant/restore a diversity of native tree and plant species State, Towns, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Educate property owners on importance of natural buffers, native species State, Towns, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Reclaim developed sites and restore or reforest riparian areas State, Towns, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Protect, restore, and enhance freshwater wetlands, including ponds and lakes
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
ACTION: Protect, restore, and enhance freshwater wetlands, including ponds and lakes
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Update Ponds and Lakes Atlas County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Widen existing buffers to wetlands County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals, Civic groups  
Protect/restore vegetation around ponds County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals, Civic groups  
Avoid chemical/fertilizer use around waterbodies County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals, Civic groups  
Avoid/reduce sources of land-based pollutant and nutrient loads County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals, Civic groups  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Protect, restore, and enhance salt marshes
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
ACTION: Protect, restore, and enhance salt marshes
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Prioritize protection of salt marshes over restoration County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Identify salt marshes that have greatest landward migration potential, and those that do not due to human infrastructure. Facilitate salt marsh migration County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Expand Pleasant Bay Alliance study of which salt marshes across the Cape are most likely to benefit from a resiliency program (using LIDAR) County, Towns, Research Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Promote better surface water management to reduce inflows of stormwater runoff and decrease degradation to help marshes and coastal habitats County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Identify locations where culverts can be improved to allow for better tidal flushing County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Develop coastal zoning regulations that provide room for marshes to retreat or migrate landward County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Promote living shorelines where erosion control is needed to allow for salt marsh migration and disincentivize coastal armoring County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Provide education about living shorelines and alternatives to coastal armoring County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Create/explore mitigation banking to provide funding for green infrastructure (e.g. Chatham) County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Develop marsh resilience toolkits for the Northeast County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Identify or score salt marshes based on overall resilience (not just ability to migrate) County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Educate the public about the importance of salt marshes for fisheries County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Promote shoreline management strategies to sustain natural coastal resource processes County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Support ongoing cranberry cultivation through industry transition, including retirement and restoration
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
ACTION: Support ongoing cranberry cultivation through industry transition, including retirement and restoration
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify bogs with wetland restoration potential and with high upland habitat connectivity value County, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Reduce or eliminate agricultural drainage improvements near wetlands County, Businesses, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Identify funding streams for restoration projects
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of wetlands and riparian areas
ACTION: Identify funding streams for restoration projects
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify organizations or individuals to assist with identifying funding sources, writing grant applications, and providing support to towns in accessing needed funds County, Advocacy Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Construct, retrofit, or replace crossing structures for wildlife passage
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of habitat connectivity
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of habitat connectivity
ACTION: Construct, retrofit, or replace crossing structures for wildlife passage
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify key sites for connectivity improvements Towns  
Plan, design and build for future conditions Towns  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Reduce landscape fragmentation and maintain/create habitat corridors
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of habitat connectivity
STRATEGY: Support and promote protection, preservation, and restoration of habitat connectivity
ACTION: Reduce landscape fragmentation and maintain/create habitat corridors
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify opportunities to connect existing open space parcels and acquire/protect these connections County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Promote communication between towns and land trusts to work towards common goals County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Provide tools to identify where lands should be preserved to reduce fragmentation (ex. BioMap2) County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Identify funding sources for land preservation to reduce habitat fragmentation County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Restore natural hydrology
STRATEGY: Protect water quality and quantity
STRATEGY: Protect water quality and quantity
ACTION: Restore natural hydrology
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Remove remnant hydrological modifications State, County, Towns  
Identify funding opportunities for stream and river restorations State, County, Towns  
Streamline permitting to support restoration projects State, County, Towns  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Incorporate natural or low impact development into designs
STRATEGY: Protect water quality and quantity
STRATEGY: Protect water quality and quantity
ACTION: Incorporate natural or low impact development into designs
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Direct stormwater runoff into green infrastructure or natural features that can appropriately manage runoff County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals  
Monitor drainage systems to ensure they are working as designed County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals  
Use low impact designs such as permeable paving County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals  
Manage and treat stormwater on-site using natural vegetation County, Towns, Businesses, Individuals  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Protect drinking water supply
STRATEGY: Protect water quality and quantity
STRATEGY: Protect water quality and quantity
ACTION: Protect drinking water supply
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Protect/acquire lands in Zone IIs (wellhead protection areas) County, Towns  
Limit development activities in Zone IIs (wellhead protection areas) County, Towns  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Support and promote protection, conservation, and restoration of natural ecosystems

ACTION: Plan for and design "shovel-ready" projects that achieve restoration and water quality goals
STRATEGY: Protect water quality and quantity
STRATEGY: Protect water quality and quantity
ACTION: Plan for and design "shovel-ready" projects that achieve restoration and water quality goals
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Align planning, design, permitting, and construction of water quality restoration projects County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Explore role of “impact investing” to fund restoration projects County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Increase carbon sequestration in the natural environment

ACTION: Improve soil management techniques in both agriculture and landscaping
STRATEGY: Increase carbon storage and sequestration in soils
STRATEGY: Increase carbon storage and sequestration in soils
ACTION: Improve soil management techniques in both agriculture and landscaping
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Expand communication and education about best soil management practices County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Use cover crops to avoid topsoil erosion, and use compost in lieu of fertilizers.
Minimize soil disturbance by avoiding or reducing grading for development or tillage for planting, weed control, or other purposes County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Wherever possible, avoid/reduce fertilizer and pesticide use County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Use compost in lieu of fertilizers.
When needed, use fertilizers, pesticides and other soil amendments more efficiently County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Use compost in lieu of fertilizers.
Use compost County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Use soil cover (mulch, cover crop) to conserve soil moisture and reduce soil temperatures County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Use cover crops to avoid topsoil erosion.
Reduce topsoil erosion County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Use cover crops to avoid topsoil erosion.
Provide education and outreach to homeowners and landscapers to reduce land management practices/landscaping, or use alternative, natural techniques and alternatives to fertilizers County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals Use compost in lieu of fertilizers.
Promote the use of native species to restore natural soil processes and biology County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Increase carbon sequestration in the natural environment

ACTION: Protect and restore trees, small woodlands, and forests
STRATEGY: Enhance carbon storage/sequestration in forests
STRATEGY: Enhance carbon storage/sequestration in forests
ACTION: Protect and restore trees, small woodlands, and forests
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Maintain vegetation or revegetate disturbed areas with native species Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations Use cover crops to avoid topsoil erosion.
Retain large diameter trees, protect specimen trees Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Identify areas with high carbon stocks and prioritize protection of these areas Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations Identify areas with high densities of tree and natural vegetation growth for protection
Support use of carbon credits to increase woodland protection Towns, Businesses, Individuals, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Increase carbon sequestration in the natural environment

ACTION: Keep natural lands intact
STRATEGY: Enhance carbon storage/sequestration in forests
STRATEGY: Enhance carbon storage/sequestration in forests
ACTION: Keep natural lands intact
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Set high fees for conversion of intact woodlands and habitats Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Protect forested land through deed/conservation restrictions Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Prioritize large, unfragmented forest areas for avoidance of disturbance or protection Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Identify and reforest lands that have been deforested Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations Revegetate disturbed areas with trees. Stump dumps, gravel pits, buffers to abandoned bogs, as well as lots that have been cleared or are underutilized may be suitable for reforestation.
Consider undevelopment, where appropriate Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Increase carbon sequestration in the natural environment

ACTION: Support forest management to protect healthy forests and reduce wildfire threat and severity
STRATEGY: Enhance carbon storage/sequestration in forests
STRATEGY: Enhance carbon storage/sequestration in forests
ACTION: Support forest management to protect healthy forests and reduce wildfire threat and severity
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Support forest thinning, where appropriate County, Towns Perform forest thinning, as advised by forestry professionals
Establish and maintain fuel breaks County, Towns Create fuel breaks at strategic places in woodlands
Support prescribed fires, where appropriate County, Towns Conduct prescribed fires to bring down the fuel load
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Increase carbon sequestration in the natural environment

ACTION: Protect/restore wetlands (in particular salt marshes) and preserve wetland functions
STRATEGY: Increase carbon storage in blue carbon ecosystems
STRATEGY: Increase carbon storage in blue carbon ecosystems
ACTION: Protect/restore wetlands (in particular salt marshes) and preserve wetland functions
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify means for calculating the carbon sequestration value of the Cape’s salt marshes and other wetlands County, Towns, Research Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Provide public education on the importance of salt marshes and how those ecosystems work, including ways property owners can help protect and restore salt marshes on their property County, Towns, Research Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Inventory salt marsh locations and identify their specific threats (ex. sea level rise, storm impacts) County, Towns, Research Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Provide training and best management practices to Conservation Commission members on permitting restoration projects County, Towns, Research Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations Educate conservation commissions about restoration techniques
Support Conservation Commissions in incorporating climate change into local wetlands bylaws and regulations County, Towns, Research Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations Adopt wetland bylaws and regulations that will promote wetland restoration.
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Increase carbon sequestration in the natural environment

ACTION: Make room for salt marsh migration (landward)
STRATEGY: Increase carbon storage in blue carbon ecosystems
STRATEGY: Increase carbon storage in blue carbon ecosystems
ACTION: Make room for salt marsh migration (landward)
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Provide public education on the need for space to allow for salt marsh migration Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations, Individuals Identify the best areas for salt marsh migration, and educate the public about the need to take steps to accommodate migration through land acquisition or regulation.
Conduct cost/benefit analysis of thin layer deposition to support salt marsh resilience Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations, Individuals Research the viability of thinlayer deposition to raise the level of the marsh surface and promote the growth of salt marsh grasses.
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Increase carbon sequestration in the natural environment

ACTION: Consider seaweed aquaculture as a decarbonization method
STRATEGY: Increase carbon storage in blue carbon ecosystems
STRATEGY: Increase carbon storage in blue carbon ecosystems
ACTION: Consider seaweed aquaculture as a decarbonization method
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify seaweed aquaculture as a priority for research and feasibility analysis on Cape Cod in institutional strategic planning documents County, Research Organizations, Businesses  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Increase agriculture activities
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
ACTION: Increase agriculture activities
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Incentivize local food production State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Address Community Supported Agriculture (CSAs) disappearing - labor challenges State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Support dual use on farmland to encourage renewable energy generation that is compatible with continued agricultural activity State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Update farmland current use taxation program (Ch61A) to further support agricultural activities State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Support local food production through infrastructure and policy (e.g. adoption of right to farm bylaws) State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Identify areas/parcels with prime agriculture soil and encourage/zone it for agriculture State, County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Protect water quality and quantity from agricultural activities
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
ACTION: Protect water quality and quantity from agricultural activities
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Reassess nutrient applications and ensure that use of organic materials, fertilizers, amendments, and all sources of nutrients is matched to changing climate conditions Federal, State, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Reassess pesticide risk and ensure that all pesticide applications consider changing climate conditions Federal, State, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Avoid/reduce irrigation or increase irrigation efficiencies Federal, State, Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Reduce crop stressors
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
ACTION: Reduce crop stressors
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Enhance use of integrated pest management Federal, State, County, Towns, Businesses  
Use varieties and species resistant to heat, drought, flash floods, pests, and diseases Federal, State, County, Towns, Businesses  
Incorporate crop rotation Federal, State, County, Towns, Businesses  
Monitor for and eradicate noxious weeds Federal, State, County, Towns, Businesses  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Reduce risks from warmer and drier conditions by adjusting agricultural practices
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
ACTION: Reduce risks from warmer and drier conditions by adjusting agricultural practices
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Adjust timing of planting and other operations to account for longer growing season and altered conditions Federal, State, Businesses  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Manage farms and fields as part of a larger ecosystem, promoting biological diversity through the landscape
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
ACTION: Manage farms and fields as part of a larger ecosystem, promoting biological diversity through the landscape
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Maintain or restore natural ecosystems Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Promote biological diversity across the landscape Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Enhance landscape connectivity Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Alter agriculture management to accommodate expected future conditions
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
STRATEGY: Support sustainable and resilient working lands
ACTION: Alter agriculture management to accommodate expected future conditions
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Diversify farming activities by adding additional activities or new commodities Federal, Businesses  
Switch to commodities expected to be better suited to future conditions (e.g., new cultivars/species that match a changing climate, more water-efficient crops) Federal, Businesses  
Upgrade to more energy efficient equipment and/or integrate on-farm renewable energy generation Federal, Businesses  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Increase the public's demand for "emerging" seafood varieties (e.g.
STRATEGY: Support the fishing industry through transitions created by climate change
STRATEGY: Support the fishing industry through transitions created by climate change
ACTION: Increase the public's demand for "emerging" seafood varieties (e.g.
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Assist with marketing and educating the public on alternative seafood products (e.g., dogfish, shellfish varieties) Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Expand research, data access, and forecasting of fisheries trends
STRATEGY: Support the fishing industry through transitions created by climate change
STRATEGY: Support the fishing industry through transitions created by climate change
ACTION: Expand research, data access, and forecasting of fisheries trends
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Support research into local ocean acidification trends Federal, State, Research Organizations  
Monitor ocean acidification and impacts on shellfish Federal, State, Research Organizations  
Increase data access to support long-range planning and capital projects Federal, State, Research Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Restore native shellfishing areas
STRATEGY: Support the fishing industry through transitions created by climate change
STRATEGY: Support the fishing industry through transitions created by climate change
ACTION: Restore native shellfishing areas
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify suitable shellfish restoration sites; coordinate with water quality management needs State, County, Towns, Research Organizations  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Protect harbor and fishing access infrastructure
STRATEGY: Support the fishing industry through transitions created by climate change
STRATEGY: Support the fishing industry through transitions created by climate change
ACTION: Protect harbor and fishing access infrastructure
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Adopt zoning to protect maritime access and industries State, County, Towns  
Natural Resources & Working Lands
GOAL: Protect the ability of working lands and waters to provide essential social and economic services while protecting the environment

ACTION: Adopt municipal statements or policies about the contribution of natural resources and working lands to mitigate the effects and causes of climate change
STRATEGY: Promote local and regional recognition of the importance of natural resources and working lands to mitigate the impacts of climate change
STRATEGY: Promote local and regional recognition of the importance of natural resources and working lands to mitigate the impacts of climate change
ACTION: Adopt municipal statements or policies about the contribution of natural resources and working lands to mitigate the effects and causes of climate change
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Towns should consider including statements within local comprehensive plans and within open space and recreation plans noting the role of woodlands, wetlands, and soils in sequestering carbon, and the importance of protecting these resources Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations  
Community
GOAL: Improve broad public knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts and programs

ACTION: Identify the legal framework that towns and other actors must work within (consider how to reach vulnerable populations)
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
ACTION: Identify the legal framework that towns and other actors must work within (consider how to reach vulnerable populations)
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify how information flows through neighborhoods and how to reach vulnerable populations County, Towns, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations Identify vulnerable populations and determine the flow of information through both regional and local organizations. Develop methods for reaching a larger proportion and variety of citizens and stakeholders.
Community
GOAL: Improve broad public knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts and programs

ACTION: Provide guidance for communities to help prioritize actions to reduce municipal sources of greenhouse gas emissions
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
ACTION: Provide guidance for communities to help prioritize actions to reduce municipal sources of greenhouse gas emissions
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Develop standardized communication materials with regional climate priorities identified, including long-term and short-term priorities and means for increasing capacity; use different media to reach different audiences County, Research Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations For businesses with industry-specific materials, include sharing information on the use of technology to manage heating and cooling in hotels, and providing guidance on restaurant kitchen upgrades to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Develop tools for measuring and communicating progress on climate goals County, Research Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations Develop communication materials that identify short- and long-term priorities and means for increasing capacity for implementation, strategies for a variety of media to reach different audiences, and tools for measuring and communicating progress toward local and regional climate action goals.
Community
GOAL: Improve broad public knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts and programs

ACTION: Develop curriculum and hands-on programming for students of all ages to become informed about climate change and the actions available to address it
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
ACTION: Develop curriculum and hands-on programming for students of all ages to become informed about climate change and the actions available to address it
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Engage students and faculty (high school and college) in the development of curricula, including the Department of Education to update curricula County, Schools, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Widely distribute the Climate Action Plan in print and other media; including town halls, libraries, bookstores, Chambers of Commerce, etc. County, Schools, Non-Governmental Organizations, Research Organizations  
Community
GOAL: Improve broad public knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts and programs

ACTION: Identify individual actions or lifestyle choices that individuals can take; provide that information as guidance
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
ACTION: Identify individual actions or lifestyle choices that individuals can take; provide that information as guidance
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Utilize the local Climate Action Networks to distribute information Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals, Civic groups For individuals, develop methods for distribution of information and engage those who can help to influence individual decision-making.
Promote vendor fairs, lectures, peer influence (climate influencers) Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Identify and distribute a GHG calculator to assess emissions associated with personal actions, such as travel, food and goods consumption choices, etc. Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Community
GOAL: Improve broad public knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts and programs

ACTION: Acknowledge tradeoffs associated with some climate change actions
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
ACTION: Acknowledge tradeoffs associated with some climate change actions
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Education about climate change actions should recognize that not all actions are without cost or compromise, and the benefits in health, sustainable communities, and equity that may result County, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, Individuals Incorporate information from the economic and fiscal impact analysis to illustrate tradeoffs associated with climate action into education and outreach materials.
Community
GOAL: Improve broad public knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts and programs

ACTION: Target businesses with industry-specific educational materials and events
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
ACTION: Target businesses with industry-specific educational materials and events
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Hold trainings or develop materials for hotels’ use of technology to manage heating/cooling (key-in-door operation model) Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Trainings or summit for restaurant kitchen upgrades to improve efficiency, reduce costs Non-Governmental Organizations, Businesses, Individuals  
Community
GOAL: Improve broad public knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts and programs

ACTION: Chambers of commerce can brand Cape Cod as “Green Economy”
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
ACTION: Chambers of commerce can brand Cape Cod as “Green Economy”
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Target businesses, second homeowners, and visitors; Cape economy is based on health of environment Civic Organizations, Businesses Businesses can carry and promote the use of climate friendly building products, whether recycled or with fewer manufacturing emissions.
Community
GOAL: Improve broad public knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts and programs

ACTION: Expand public understanding of climate risks and hazards that the Cape faces
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
STRATEGY: Increase education and communications about climate change mitigation and adaptation options
ACTION: Expand public understanding of climate risks and hazards that the Cape faces
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Expand public education through various meeting formats and media County, Towns  
Community
GOAL: Improve broad public knowledge and understanding of climate change impacts and programs

ACTION: Develop a comprehensive list of NGOs and advocacy groups that focus on climate change action
STRATEGY: Expand efforts to engage diverse communities
STRATEGY: Expand efforts to engage diverse communities
ACTION: Develop a comprehensive list of NGOs and advocacy groups that focus on climate change action
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Make available and distribute information about existing actors who may move ahead with actions and steps in the Climate Action Plan; include civic organizations, faith organizations, conservation groups, climate action networks (CANs) etc. County, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations  
Community
GOAL: Accelerate adoption of emissions reduction strategies and actions across regional and local governments

ACTION: Adopt amendments to the Regional Policy Plan (RPP) and supporting regulations to advance the Commonwealth's greenhouse gas reduction goals
STRATEGY: Where suitable, identify and adopt regional goals and policies that help advance mitigation strategies and actions
STRATEGY: Where suitable, identify and adopt regional goals and policies that help advance mitigation strategies and actions
ACTION: Adopt amendments to the Regional Policy Plan (RPP) and supporting regulations to advance the Commonwealth's greenhouse gas reduction goals
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Adopt a goal in the Regional Policy Plan (RPP) to advance the Commonwealth's greenhouse gas reduction goals County  
Adopt a new performance measure in the RPP that tracks progress on greenhouse gas emissions County  
Adopt objectives in the RPP to promote low carbon transportation alternatives, low carbon technologies for building heating and cooling, to promote carbon sequestration through land use practices, and to promote low carbon energy generation County  
Amend existing technical guidance to advance net or near zero construction methods and elements, including solar considerations County  
Develop technical guidance to support the new RPP goal and objectives, including technical guidance on Net or Near- Zero construction; alternate fuel sources and HVAC systems; Electric vehicles including transit; bike and pedestrian networks; means for preventing the reduction of, and promoting new carbon sequestration County  
Community
GOAL: Accelerate adoption of emissions reduction strategies and actions across regional and local governments

ACTION: Increase technical assistance capacity within regional organizations to support local governments (develop model bylaws, regulations, and policies)
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
ACTION: Increase technical assistance capacity within regional organizations to support local governments (develop model bylaws, regulations, and policies)
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Develop model bylaws, regulations, and policies to assist local governments County, Towns, CLC  
Develop guidance for municipalities to address climate change modifications within municipal buildings and operations, to include prioritized actions for conversion of vehicle fleets, retrofits and upgrades of municipal buildings, other best practices County, Towns, CLC Towns can support best building practices in town codes and regulations to ensure energy efficiency measures and assessments become the norm. Towns can also establish new procurement rules to specify low energy demand buildings and solar readiness in municipal structures.
Develop guidance or toolkits for municipalities for advancing private home and business energy efficiency upgrades and heating retrofits, with model tracking or benchmarking tools County, Towns, CLC  
Build staff capacity to assist communities with technical support on energy retrofits, bylaw changes, restoration projects County, Towns, CLC Develop model bylaws, regulations and policies; Provide guidance on retrofitting public buildings, modifying operations, and converting vehicle fleets; Provide guidance for advancing private home and business energy and heating retrofits
Engage Energy Coach to assist home and business owners with renewable energy investments County, Towns, CLC Engage organizations that assist home and business owners with renewable energy investments.
Community
GOAL: Accelerate adoption of emissions reduction strategies and actions across regional and local governments

ACTION: Improve communication between municipalities
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
ACTION: Improve communication between municipalities
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Convene town leaders to build coalitions to accomplish specific tasks, including wastewater management County, Towns  
Broker partnerships between towns County, Towns Convene town leaders to build coalitions to accomplish specific tasks, or achieve goals; encourage partnership amongst municipalities pursuing similar actions; providing region-wide opportunities for sharing best practices and lessons learned.
Community
GOAL: Accelerate adoption of emissions reduction strategies and actions across regional and local governments

ACTION: Assess social infrastructure needs
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
ACTION: Assess social infrastructure needs
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Support and train response personnel in needs of the elderly Towns, Civic Organizations Provide information or training to response personnel on the needs of the elderly
Community
GOAL: Accelerate adoption of emissions reduction strategies and actions across regional and local governments

ACTION: Create and fund new staff positions within municipal government to advance climate change actions
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
ACTION: Create and fund new staff positions within municipal government to advance climate change actions
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Seek grant funding to support town climate adaptation/mitigation coordinators, or to establish a "circuit rider" program with 2 or 3 specialists to help towns develop programs and advance climate initiatives Government: towns  
Community
GOAL: Accelerate adoption of emissions reduction strategies and actions across regional and local governments

ACTION: Provide grant-writing assistance
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
STRATEGY: Increase capacity within municipal staffs; provide outside technical assistance
ACTION: Provide grant-writing assistance
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify funding sources for different climate action initiatives County  
Identify, train, or hire individuals to provide grant writing assistance to municipalities County Provide training and/or other grant writing assistance.
Community
GOAL: Increase data collection and access

ACTION: Request legislative change to mandate provision of fuel use data at municipal level
STRATEGY: Identify more granular, town-specific data to advance climate action
STRATEGY: Identify more granular, town-specific data to advance climate action
ACTION: Request legislative change to mandate provision of fuel use data at municipal level
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Work with legislative delegation to take appropriate action to mandate fuel suppliers provide fuel delivery data, at appropriate scale County  
Access better data on power outages to improve reliability of power supply County  
Community
GOAL: Increase data collection and access

ACTION: Expand access to data at the town level to track progress
STRATEGY: Identify more granular, town-specific data to advance climate action
STRATEGY: Identify more granular, town-specific data to advance climate action
ACTION: Expand access to data at the town level to track progress
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Expand regional datasets on vehicle fleets, residential fuel usage, etc. County, Towns  
Community
GOAL: Increase data collection and access

ACTION: Identify and calculate GHG emissions that are permanently reduced, avoided, or removed (sequestered) from the atmosphere
STRATEGY: Identify and utilize carbon offsets
STRATEGY: Identify and utilize carbon offsets
ACTION: Identify and calculate GHG emissions that are permanently reduced, avoided, or removed (sequestered) from the atmosphere
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Calculate offsets from forests (Cape Cod woodland types), freshwater wetlands and salt marshes County, Research Organizations  
Community
GOAL: Ensure the health, safety, and equitability of mitigation and adaptation solutions

ACTION: Identify sectors and opportunities for green economy jobs
STRATEGY: Support green economy jobs with livable wages
STRATEGY: Support green economy jobs with livable wages
ACTION: Identify sectors and opportunities for green economy jobs
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Surveying employers and regional leaders to understand barriers to sector growth County, Businesses Businesses can carry and promote the use of climate friendly building products, whether recycled or with fewer manufacturing emissions.
Develop workforce training programs Institutions, Businesses Businesses can carry and promote the use of climate friendly building products, whether recycled or with fewer manufacturing emissions.
Collect data on available jobs, wages, and locations Businesses, Chamber of Commerce Businesses can carry and promote the use of climate friendly building products, whether recycled or with fewer manufacturing emissions.
Community
GOAL: Ensure the health, safety, and equitability of mitigation and adaptation solutions

ACTION: Expand access to energy efficient and affordable housing
STRATEGY: Expand access to energy conserving and efficient building systems and technologies
STRATEGY: Expand access to energy conserving and efficient building systems and technologies
ACTION: Expand access to energy efficient and affordable housing
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Improve knowledge of and access to existing funding sources for home energy retrofits for low and moderate income households Non-Governmental Organizations, CLC  
Community
GOAL: Ensure the health, safety, and equitability of mitigation and adaptation solutions

ACTION: Expand access to renewable sources of energy supply for low and moderate income households
STRATEGY: Expand access to energy conserving and efficient building systems and technologies
STRATEGY: Expand access to energy conserving and efficient building systems and technologies
ACTION: Expand access to renewable sources of energy supply for low and moderate income households
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Identify funding to subsidize access to green energy through renewable power purchases Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, CLC  
Identify opportunities to build community solar programs Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, CLC  
Community
GOAL: Establish strategic partnerships to advance shared goals

ACTION: Look at opportunities to combine projects among different government agencies, such as road retrofits with new utility installations
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between levels or departments of government
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between levels or departments of government
ACTION: Look at opportunities to combine projects among different government agencies, such as road retrofits with new utility installations
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Consider future wastewater management needs when planning sea level rise or flooding retrofits State, County, Towns  
Community
GOAL: Establish strategic partnerships to advance shared goals

ACTION: Regularly share information and best practices for easy access and distribution
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between levels or departments of government
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between levels or departments of government
ACTION: Regularly share information and best practices for easy access and distribution
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Develop best management practices guides to address shared challenges across Cape communities State, County, Towns  
Provide trainings for Conservation Commissions and other municipal boards State, County, Towns  
Community
GOAL: Establish strategic partnerships to advance shared goals

ACTION: Create opportunities for NGOs and others to form partnerships
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between levels or departments of government
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between levels or departments of government
ACTION: Create opportunities for NGOs and others to form partnerships
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Build “good neighbor” coalitions to advance actions or behaviors (e.g., water use, landscaping practices, etc.) County, Towns, Non-Governmental Organizations, Civic Organizations, Individuals  
Community
GOAL: Establish strategic partnerships to advance shared goals

ACTION: Foster cross-town partnerships to advance resiliency goals
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between levels or departments of government
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between levels or departments of government
ACTION: Foster cross-town partnerships to advance resiliency goals
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Continue Outer Cape towns’ collaboration on coastal resource management County, Towns  
Support development of sub-regional emergency shelters and other infrastructure through town partnerships County, Towns  
Identify and advance priority regional sediment management areas of the coastline County, Towns  
Explore opportunities for sub-regional equipment sharing and other resources County, Towns  
Community
GOAL: Establish strategic partnerships to advance shared goals

ACTION: Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships to advance common goals or objectives
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between the public and private sectors
STRATEGY: Foster collaborations between the public and private sectors
ACTION: Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships to advance common goals or objectives
Steps Responsible Actors 2 CAP References 3 Reserved
Distribute information (database) about organizations region-wide, and relevant out-of-region agencies and entities, that share similar missions to facilitate partnerships and advancement of climate actions and steps County, Businesses, Civic Organizations, Non-Governmental Organizations  
  • About
  • How to Use
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About the Climate Actions Database

Cape Cod Climate Action Plan Cover

As a component of the Cape Cod Climate Initiative, the Cape Cod Commission engaged stakeholders in a series of meetings during the fall of 2020 to discuss the challenges and opportunities around addressing climate change on Cape Cod.

The Cape Cod Climate Actions Database emerged from those community discussions, building on research on climate action plans from around the country and enriched by local knowledge, expertise, and experience. Many of the goals, strategies, actions, and steps identified through the workshops and focus groups were later incorporated into the Cape Cod Climate Action Plan (2021); all of the actions discussed during that public process are compiled in this online tool, the Climate Actions Database viewer.

The Climate Actions Database is meant to be a living document, and actions and steps may be added or modified as more information becomes available.

Use selection menues to narrow topics

The Viewer is a tool intended to provide a resource and “idea bank” for individuals, communities, and organizations interested in advancing actions to mitigate or adapt to climate change.

Click the Plus sign for additional information

The Viewer may be filtered by Actor, Sector, or Goals & Strategy, or combinations of these categories, in order to facilitate finding actions relevant to the user’s area of interest.

  • Click on the drop-down menus from left to right at the top of the Viewer to make your selections.
  • Click on the plus (+) button in the lower right of the Action “cards” to see more information, including Steps to advance that Action.

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Download the data:

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