Lexington is working to achieve its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Officials recently released the Race to Net Zero Emissions Reduction Plan.
It provides a list of actions citizens can take to reach that goal. Net zero means the amount of greenhouse gases produced is equal to the amount absorbed.
Jada Walker Griggs is the Senior Program Manager for Sustainability for the City of Lexington. She said there is something for everyone to do to help.
“You know, not everyone can not spend 20-30 thousand dollars on solar. Those that can, and would like to, we would certainly like to encourage that. In this plan, there is something that everyone can do. I don't want them to think that it's too small, there is no too small.”
She said there are many things people can do to help reach the city's goal.
“Plant a tree, recycle, but if you recycle, we're asking you to recycle right because we know, and we've learned through our division of waste management that a lot of the materials that come in are not recyclable and there is a lot of contamination.”
Walker Griggs said the city is making solid strides toward its goal. Through a federal grant, the Lexington Recycle Center is getting upgraded to accept additional materials in late 2026. Ten government buildings have solar panels.
The city’s waste trucks run on compressed natural gas rather than diesel.
Lexington Environmental Quality and Public Works is a financial supporter of WEKU.
