Environment and Climate

Panoramic view of Bend at sunrise looking east. Deschutes River in the foreground, trees, streets, houses.

The City of Bend is dedicated to cutting down on fossil fuels, boosting energy efficiency, and making our community more resilient to climate change. Check out the four primary areas where we’re focusing our sustainability efforts below.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions

City of Bend looking northeast from a drone. City buildings, houses, streets, and trees. Pilot Butte in the mid-ground. Blue skies and hills in the background.

See where Bend’s emissions come from how we track our progress towards reducing them.

Learn More

Energy

Solar Panels on top of a residence. Blue sky in the background. Home is brown in color.

Learn about Bend’s top emissions source and efforts to boost efficiency and expand renewables.

Learn More

Transportation

City street with bicyclists and cars.

Discover Bend’s second largest emissions source and our work to reduce vehicle miles travelled.

Learn More

Materials and Waste Management

People behind recycling bins. Bins are blue and gray. Signs on each bins indicating what type of material belongs in each bin.

Learn where materials & waste emissions come from & how we plan to divert landfill waste.

Learn More

The City of Bend is all about cherishing our beautiful natural surroundings, lively community, and long-term sustainability. As we face the challenges of climate change, it’s more important than ever to take steps to protect our future.

We’re committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving resources, and promoting environmental care through strategic initiatives, community partnerships, and policy changes. Our efforts are guided by the Community Climate Action Plan, which sets ambitious yet achievable goals for Bend.

By working together, we can create a greener, more resilient city for future generations. Whether you’re a resident, business owner, or visitor, there are plenty of ways you can help build a sustainable future.

Check out our webpages below to learn more about Bend’s sustainability programs, ongoing projects, and how you can get involved. Let’s make a difference together!

Our Goals

  • Cut fossil fuel use by 40% by 2030 and 70% by 2050 (as outlined in Resolution 3044).
  • Boost our resilience to the impacts of climate change.
  • Ensure a fair transition to a sustainable future for everyone.

Our Guiding Documents

Community Climate Action Plan

Old Mill District in Bend with snow in winter. Blue skies, fresh, white snow on buildings.
Learn More

Strategic Energy Managment Plan

Solar panels on top of the Centennial Parking Garage. Blue sky in the background.
Learn More

Climate Change in Bend

Bend is already feeling the effects of climate change, like hotter summers, less snow, and more wildfires. These changes impact our natural environment, outdoor recreation, and community well-being. Warmer temperatures lead to drier conditions, affecting water supplies and increasing the risk of wildfires. Less snow also means less water for homes, businesses, and farms, and it affects winter recreation.

To tackle these challenges, the City of Bend is implementing the Community Climate Action Plan. This plan promotes renewable energy, better water conservation, and more wildfire prevention efforts. Residents and businesses can help too by using less fossil fuel, saving water, and getting ready for wildfire season.

Environment and Climate Committee

The Environment and Climate Committee (ECC) is a group of dedicated volunteers who help guide Bend’s sustainability and climate policies. They work on putting the Community Climate Action Plan into action, promoting environmental care, and involving the community in climate projects. The ECC gives advice to the City Council on ways to cut greenhouse gas emissions, boost energy efficiency, and strengthen climate resilience.

Group shot of the committee.

How You Can Help

Each person has the power to make a positive impact. By making small adjustments in daily habits, you can help minimize waste and conserve both water and energy.