Climate Change Data

Somerset Valley Publishing Inc.

Climate Impact & Sustainability Data (2024)

Reporting Period: 2024

Environmental Metrics

ESG Focus Areas

  • Climate Change
  • Affordable Housing
  • Transportation
  • Community Development
  • Social Justice

Environmental Achievements

  • Aim for an 80% decrease in carbon emissions by 2040 (Glen and Otis Streets project)
  • Reducing vehicle miles traveled (through parking minimum removal)

Social Achievements

  • Supporting diverse range of initiatives through Community Preservation Act (CPA) funding (e.g., playgrounds, affordable housing, rental assistance)
  • Providing Durable Medical Equipment at no cost to Somerville residents (COA)
  • Supporting the creation of new work in performance, visual arts, and trans/interdisciplinary disciplines (SomArt program)

Governance Achievements

  • Somerville City Council approved a resolution to remove mandatory parking space requirements
  • Somerville Redevelopment Authority (SRA) seeking applications for an open board position

Climate Goals & Targets

Medium-term Goals:
  • 80% decrease in carbon emissions by 2040
Short-term Goals:
  • Glen and Otis Streets safety improvements completed in Spring/Summer 2024

Environmental Challenges

  • High parking minimum requirements hindering affordable housing and environmental goals
  • Traffic congestion
  • Climate change impacts (flooding)
  • Food insecurity
Mitigation Strategies
  • Removing mandatory parking minimums to free up land for housing and green space
  • Investing in safety improvements for Glen and Otis Streets (slower speeds, bike lanes)
  • Flood relief and water quality improvement efforts (Morrison Ave. project)
  • Providing Durable Medical Equipment and transportation assistance to seniors
  • Supporting Food For Free initiatives

Supply Chain Management

Climate-Related Risks & Opportunities

Physical Risks
  • Flooding