Sustainability & Our Environment

The climate in Kalamazoo is changing. Over the last several decades, we've experienced a 40% increase in heavy rainstorms. High heat days exceeding 90 degrees are predicted to increase from 10 per year to as many as 40. It is urgent that we take steps to protect our environment and act responsibly to reduce our impact on climate change. The community recognized this by identifying Environmental Responsibility as a goal during the Imagine Kalamazoo visioning process and through the declaration of a climate emergency by the City Commission. 

Kalamazoo has programs in place to protect our local natural resources and we're exploring new programs to make essential public services more sustainable. Through these programs our city government can help contribute to the culture of environmental stewardship that is a vital part of our community. 

A draft sustainability plan was prepared in April 2022 and is currently available for community review and feedback. This plan details actions that the City of Kalamazoo can take in partnership with the community and goals to significantly reduce our impact on our climate and environment.