Projects
Climate planning in West Piedmont
The Challenge
Local governments are faced with the task of developing action plans to address community concerns, the adverse impacts of increasingly extreme weather, and shifting energy demands. These action plans typically require in-depth scientific analyses, expert consultations, and financial resources in order to be effective. However, many governments in rural areas often go under-funded, leaving staff without the adequate resources to support such planning efforts.
The Project
George Mason University worked with municipalities in the West Piedmont region of Virginia - City of Danville, Henry County, and City of Martinsville - to improve energy efficiency, lower energy costs, and enhance community resiliency for all. George Mason researchers collaborated with local government staff and community members on three core initiatives: model greenhouse gas emissions and cursory risk factors for the community; develop an energy resilience action plan; and implement actions through applied learning for students.
Over the course of one year, the following three phases were conducted by George Mason experts, partnered local governments, and community representatives:
Phase 1: Model energy emissions and assess resiliency risks to provide a baseline for establishing targets and specific actions.
Phase 2: Convene to review and develop strategies that will conserve energy costs and increase community resiliency.
Phase 3: Student internships and faculty support for ongoing implementation assistance.
Who’s involved?
This project was a joint effort between the Virginia Climate Center, the Local Climate Action Planning Initiative, and the Institute for a Sustainable Earth, funded by George Mason University’s Strategic Initiative Fund.
Our researchers have partnered with three municipalities to support climate resiliency in the West Piedmont region of Virginia:
