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1. Introduction 1.1. Introduction and History fhe Pleasanton City Council is committed to climate protection. 'fo support climate protection initiatives regionally, the City joined all of the other Alameda County local governments in the Alameda County Climate Protection Project and became a member of ICLEI. "I'he Alameda County Climate Protection Project was launched by [CLEI in partnership with StopWaste.Org and the Alameda County Conference of Mayors. Pleasanton recognizes that climate change is a reality and that its causes arc mainly due to human activities that result in the release of greenhouse gases. Through energy efficiency in its facilities and vehicle Fleet, clean alternative energy sources, sustainable purchasing and waste reduction efforts, land use and transportation planning, preparing for sea level rise, and other activities, the City of Pleasanton can achieve multiple benefits, including lower energy bills, improved air quality, economic development, reduced emissions, and a better quality of life throughout the community. This greenhouse gas emissions inventory represents completion of the first step in Plcasanton's climate protection process. As advised by ICLEI, it is essential to first quantify recent-year emissions to establish: I) a baseline, against which to measure future progress, and 2) an understanding of [he highest source of emission percentages, and the greatest opportunities for emission reductions. Presented in this report are estimates of the 2005 greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the community aFla~ge, and from the City's government operations. 1.2. Climate Change Background A balance of naturally occurring gases dispersed in the atmosphere determines the Earth's climate by trapping solar radiation. This phenomenon is known as the greenhouse effect Modern human activity, most notably the burning of fossil fuels for transportation and electricity generation, introduces large amounts of carbon dioxide and other gases into the atmosphere. Collectively, these gases intensify the natural greenhouse effect, causing global average surface temperature to rise, which is in turn expected to affect global climate patterns. Overwhelming evidence suggests that human activities are increasing the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, causing a rise in global average surface temperature and consequent climate change. In response to the threat of climate change, communities worldwide are voluntarily reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Many conununities in the United States arc taking responsibility for addressing climate change at the local Icvel. Pleasanton might be impacted by changes to local and regional weather patterns and species migration. E3eyond Pleasanton, scientists also expect changing temperatures to result in more frequent and damaging storms accompanied by Flooding and land slides, summer water shortages as a result of reduced snow pack, and disruption of ecosystems, habitats and agricultural activities. Although one jurisdiction cannot independently resolve the issue of climate change, local governments can make a positive impact through cumulative local action. "this is the impetus of the Alameda County Climate Protection Project. Cities and counties have the ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through effective land use and transportation planning, wise waste management, and the efticient use of energy. 2005 Qeenhouse Cis Emissions Irnerrtory, Cityof Fieasarrton 3