North Dakota Unveils Phase 1 of Priority Climate Action Plan

standndgov on November 19, 2024

North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) released the first phase of the North Dakota Priority Climate Action Plan (PCAP), the state’s initial roadmap focused on environmental sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Developed with extensive input from residents, community leadersand major economic sectors, the plan outlines five strategies designed to support North Dakota’s agriculture, energy and natural lands sectors. These efforts, such as expanding the Energy Conservation Grant Program and advancing climate-smart agriculture through financial incentives, aim to drive economic growth, boost energy independence and reduce pollution throughout the state.

The five strategies in the PCAP—ranging from an energy efficiency upgrade initiative in Fargo to a statewide tree-planting program—reflect community-driven priorities identified during 24 public forums and multiple collaborative meetings. The plan will help North Dakota compete for EPA funding which will position the state to implement further environmental initiatives. Additional ideas generated through this process are being evaluated for North Dakota’s Comprehensive Climate Action Plan (CCAP), which launched in 2024. NDDEQ aims to build on the momentum and community enthusiasm generated through the PCAP, fostering deeper partnerships with North Dakotans in the journey toward a sustainable future.

Priority Climate Action Plan is available on the DEQ website. https://deq.nd.gov/sustainability/

North Dakota Reveals Blueprint for Sustainable Energy and Agriculture Growth

standndgov on February 27, 2024

Bank of North Dakota has released the report STAND (Sustain. Transform. Authenticate. North Dakota.), showcasing North Dakota’s proactive approach to balancing economic growth in energy and agriculture with sustainability goals. The report emphasizes the state’s reliance on its robust natural resources to meet both domestic and global food and energy demands while addressing challenges posed by global market-driven and political climate focused initiatives.

Commissioned by the 68th Legislative Assembly, the STAND report outlines North Dakota’s unique approach to sustainability. Through strategic public-private partnerships and reinvestment of coal, oil, and gas taxes, North Dakota is driving transformation in energy and agriculture. Instead of relying on regulations, the state is prioritizing innovation and conservation, offering a blueprint for sustainable growth in a world increasingly focused on carbon management.

Read the STAND Report