Walking the Talk: Why Cities Adopt Ambitious Climate Action Plans

Why do some municipalities adopt ambitious climate action plans and others not? This study examines United States cities that have signed the Global Covenant of Mayors for Climate & Energy, to identify factors led them (37 percent, 63 cities) (Net Zero) plans. It finds two make most difference: (a) whether city has a paid employee (or department) dedicated environmental/energy management (b) university. Other factors, such as per capita income, revenue, state funding, size, partisan orientation, membership in international networks, did not significantly influence how city's plan was. combines statistical analysis signatory with qualitative Middletown Connecticut explain why energy managers universities can positive effect on action.