Local Policy, Big Impact: How Cities Are Leading the Way on Climate and Clean Air​

Many national air quality policies are in flux due to executive orders and changes in EPA policy.  Executive orders have been issued including "Protecting American Energy From State Overreach." which focuses on state initiatives related to climate change.  Additionally, on March 12, 2025 EPA administrator Lee Zeldin announced 31 potential deregulatory actions to “Power the Great American Comeback”. EPA’s website lists the 31 actions including; addressing environmental justice programs, regional haze programs, the “social cost of carbon among many others.

Cities at the Forefront of Climate Action As a result, cities may emerge as pivotal leaders in the pursuit of clean air.  While national policies are being re-examined which could take years, municipal governments can implement innovative solutions that yield tangible benefits for both the environment and public health.  Cities are uniquely positioned to drive climate and air quality initiatives due to their concentrated populations, infrastructure, and governance structures. By leveraging local policies, cities can enact changes that directly impact their communities.

Noteworthy City Initiatives

As follows are some examples of initiatives recently taken by cities, both in the US and abroad.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco has become a hub for climate technology, with over 700 clean tech companies and more than $42 billion in investments over the past five years. The city's "Yes SF Urban Sustainability Challenge" supports startups focusing on innovations like rainwater harvesting and AI-powered waste management, aiming to revitalize urban spaces and reduce emissions.

Dallas-Fort Worth, TexasThe North Central Texas Council of Governments is implementing strategies to reduce pollution, such as optimizing traffic signal timing to minimize vehicle idling. These efforts can positively impact the nearly one million North Texas residents suffering from asthma or chronic lung diseases. ​ 

Salt Lake City, UtahSalt Lake City's flagship solar project has reduced climate pollution from the regional electric grid and is saving taxpayers an estimated $1 million annually.  The city sources about 80% of its electricity from this project and plans to launch the Utah Renewable Communities program, aiming for net-100% clean electricity by 2030.

Paris, France

Mayor Anne Hidalgo has implemented measures like taxing high-polluting vehicles and expanding bike lanes, leading to a 40% reduction in pollution since 2011. Paris is on a path to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with initiatives such as closing central areas to through traffic to improve air quality and reduce noise.  

The Power of Local Governance

Cities are demonstrating that local policies can lead to significant environmental improvements. By focusing on areas like transportation, energy, and urban planning, municipal governments can implement changes that not only reduce emissions but also enhance the quality of life for residents.​  As the federal situation evolves, Policy Intelligence will monitor local responses and initiatives.

About Policy Intelligence

Policy Intelligence offers an AI-powered platform designed to assist state and local agencies in crafting effective air regulations. By aggregating thousands of air quality policy documents, regulations, and guidelines from local, state, and federal levels into a centralized, real-time updated database, the platform simplifies the navigation of complex regulatory landscapes.