A new analysis from the regional planning organization Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments shows that Montgomery County reduced its communitywide greenhouse gas emissions by 32% between 2005 and 2023, even as the County’s population grew by 16% during the same period.
According to the inventory, emissions from sources such as electricity use, transportation, and building heating have declined as the County continues efforts to combat climate change. County officials said the reduction demonstrates progress toward Montgomery County’s ambitious climate goals, which call for cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by 2027 and reaching net-zero emissions by 2035.
“We need to keep building on this progress by reducing emissions, expanding clean energy, and making our communities more resilient to the impacts of a changing climate,” said Marc Elrich. Climate Change Officer Sarah Kogel-Smucker credited residents, businesses, and government partners for helping reduce pollution from buildings, transportation, and waste.
County officials will provide additional details during a virtual discussion on Monday, June 8, at 4 p.m., followed by a question-and-answer session. The greenhouse gas inventory covers 24 local governments across the Washington metropolitan region.
