Climate & Sustainability
Fresh Water Institute
The plan is to embrace Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River as economic engines by restoring and preserving the water sources and developing the surrounding land to attract new industries to Cuyahoga County.
Cuyahoga Green Energy
Cuyahoga County launched the first microgrid electrical utility in the United States. Compass Energy Platform will serve as the utility operator for the County-run utility. Through the development of district microgrids, CGE will provide clean, reliable, locally produced energy to its customers.
Solar for Schools
Cuyahoga County launched a new program to provide financial support to five Northeast Ohio school districts for solar installation. The Solar for Schools program aims to reduce electricity costs and regional greenhouse gas emissions while increasing equitable access to clean, local, renewable energy and providing educational opportunities for K-12 students.
Sustainable Store Grants
The Cuyahoga County Departments of Consumer Affairs and Sustainability distributed 31 Sustainable Store grants totaling $130,000 to small businesses in 17 municipalities to create more compliance with the County’s disposable bag ban.
UN Climate Change Conference - COP28 UAE
In 2023, Executive Ronayne joined regional leaders at COP28, the United Nations climate change conference held in Dubai, to discuss climate issues. Cuyahoga County has a history of leadership on environmental issues. Attending COP28 is just one step in putting Cuyahoga County on the map as a region with solutions.
Climate Leadership Conference
The Climate Registry selected Cuyahoga County to host the 2024 Climate Leadership Conference. The annual event will bring experts from around the world to discuss innovative solutions for the climate crisis and award leaders in the field of climate action. The conference will take place from May 21-23, 2024.
Climate Action Leader
Cuyahoga County is on the CDP’s A-List. The global climate nonprofit recognizes communities for their efforts to lower greenhouse gas footprint and address climate hazards. Of the 900 local governments worldwide that received scores, Cuyahoga County ranks in the top 13%.