Moab Adopts Sustainability Plan

Located in eastern Utah, Moab is probably best known as the gateway to the massive red rock formations in Arches National Park. However, as reported in this article by Alison Harford, Moab should also be recognized for its efforts to advance sustainability, as exemplified by the recent adoption of its Sustainability Action Plan. This plan represents the culmination of an eight-month planning effort and reflects the community’s interests and needs for clean air, clean water, and a livable environment. The planning process included public outreach activities to inform the development of the priorities, a survey to collect public input, an open house, and numerous technical advisory committee meetings.

The plan lays out ambitious goals, such as achieving an 80 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 and achieving a 100 percent renewable electricity supply community-wide by 2030. The city also wants to gain certification to the International Dark Skies Association in 2024, and plans to create a “Transportation Electrification Plan” to identify “policies and strategies to prepare for projected electric vehicle adoption and charging demand.” 

Moab has made steady progress in its sustainability efforts. In 2004, the city became the nation’s first EPA Green Power Community by exceeding a minimum threshold of voluntary green power purchases. By 2009, the city the 2020 Vision: A Sustainable Moab Plan which includes goals for water conservation, water reuse, energy efficiency, sustainable construction, retrofitting for sustainability, and community awareness. Since then, Moab has continued to pursue sustainability in its initiatives and goals. In 2017, Moab committed to 100% renewable electricity by 2032 and an 80% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2040. In 2019, the city moved the date to 2030 to source 100% renewable electricity and become an anchor community for the Utah 100 Communities program enabled by House Bill 411.