Fort Lauderdale Net Zero Plan 2025

iii

Decarbonization: The process of reducing carbon dioxide and other GHG emissions through the use of low-carbon electricity sources, increased energy efficiency, and other measures. Electric Vehicles (EVs): Vehicles that are powered by electricity instead of fossil fuels such as gasoline or diesel. Electrification: The process of replacing equipment that uses natural gas, propane, or other fossil fuels with electric alternatives. Energy Efficiency: Using less energy to perform the same task, thereby eliminating energy waste. Fugitive Emissions: Leaks or other releases of gases from pressurized appliances, tanks, pipes, or other equipment, including refrigerants and natural gas. Greenhouse Gas (GHG): Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to global climate change. Common GHGs include carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O). Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory: A comprehensive account of all GHG emissions produced by a city, region, or country. GHG Emissions Reduction Potential: The estimated amount of GHG emissions that can be reduced through specific actions or strategies. Green Roofs: Roofs covered with vegetation to provide insulation, reduce runoff, and improve air quality. Green Space: An area of grass, trees, or other vegetation set apart for recreational or aesthetic purposes in an otherwise urban environment. Grid Decarbonization: The process of reducing carbon emissions from the electricity grid by increasing the share of low-carbon energy sources. ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability: A global network of local and regional governments committed to sustainable urban development. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Metrics used to evaluate the success of an organization or of a particular activity in which it engages. Legislative-Adjusted (LA) Scenario: A projection of future emissions that accounts for anticipated regulatory actions at various governmental levels. Life-Cycle Cost: The total cost of ownership over the life of an asset, including initial costs, operation, maintenance, and final disposal. Local Government Operations Protocol: A standardized set of guidelines for measuring and reporting GHG emissions from local government operations developed by the California Air Resources Board, California Climate Action Registry, ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability, and The Climate Registry. Methane (CH 4 ): A GHG emitted during the production and transport of coal, natural gas, and oil. Methane emissions also result from livestock and other agricultural practices, land use, and the decay of organic waste in municipal solid waste landfills (EPA). Mitigation Efforts: Actions taken to reduce or prevent the GHG emissions.

FORT LAUDERDALE NET ZERO PLAN