Here in Denver, we love winning the occasional prize, and climate resilience is one we can be truly proud of. Recently, the cities of the US were ranked in order of climate resilience and Denver was at the very top: The most climate-resilient city in the nation. Hooray!
But wait, what does that mean, and why is it such a good thing for our many Denverite residents? For cities, climate resilience means durability in the face of climate change. As ocean levels rise and seasonal weather conditions become harsher, some cities are becoming less livable over time. Cities with low elevation, poor sustainability, and a propensity for natural disasters rank the lowest in climate resilience.
So, you can guess why Denver is at the top of the charts along with Raleigh, North Carolina, Salt Lake City, Utah, and San Francisco, California.
What Makes a City Climate Resilient?
There are a few key factors that contribute to a city’s climate resilience. These include proper support infrastructure, high altitude, green spaces, sustainable energy, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. To achieve these qualities (everything but elevation, of course) you need comprehensive planning and community engagement.
Many of the most climate-resilient cities have initiatives that are helping their resilience by improving sustainable energy, building up infrastructure, and preparing for adaptive readiness. Residential solar programs and a robust healthcare system both play a part in Denver and other city’s climate resilience, for example.
Climate Resilience Strategies of Denver
Denver was ranked at the top of the US climate-resilient cities for several reasons. First, our community shares a commitment to sustainability and climate actions. We love green spaces, solar, lower emissions, and climate-friendly business practices – and it shows.
Second, we share initiatives, policies, and projects that contribute to our readiness for climate change. Both industrial and residential solar, sustainability mandates, and even community projects play a role.
The city also makes efforts to maintain sustainability by investing in renewable energy, water management, and urban planning.
The Top Climate-Resilient Cities in the Nation
Other cities near the top of the climate-resilient list in the US include:
- Raleigh, North Carolina
- Raleigh has a great clean energy infrastructure and enjoys about 66% “good” air quality days a year. They are also remarkably ready and adaptable.
- Salt Lake City, Utah
- Salt Lake City has a high elevation and enjoys a relatively low share of natural disasters. They also have a robust renewable energy and emissions project ready to launch.
- San Francisco, California
- San Francisco has a surprisingly high elevation, good air quality, and is not prone to disastrous weather or the regional wildfire risk.
Comparative Analysis: Denver vs. Other Cities
What makes each city climate resilient varies based on location, initiatives, as well as natural local qualities. Denver benefits from a high elevation and reasonably mild weather, as well as a community focus on sustainable practices. These, along with an adaptive nature, contribute to the climate resilience of Denver. Other cities like Raleigh and San Francisco have better air quality, but a lower elevation and a different balance of ecological initiatives.
Future Outlook and Challenges
Every community should be striving to understand and plan for increasing climate resilience. Cities can prepare by improving disaster-ready infrastructure, building up sustainable clean energy and water conservation, and preparing for risks unique to each region of the US as the climate shifts.
It is important to maintain a continued commitment to sustainable practices to retain our climate-resilient title.
Final Thoughts
A city can become climate resilient through both local natural factors and dedication to climate readiness. Denver’s position as one of the most climate-resilient cities in the US – perhaps the most resilient – relies not only on our elevation and good weather, but also on our dedication to green ecological surroundings, clean energy, good services, and sustainable city planning.
Consider climate resilience when evaluating cities like Denver to live or invest in.
If you have thoughts on climate resilience in your city, by all means, get involved and participate in local sustainability initiatives. Every person can make a difference by becoming part of the sustainable climate-resilient community effort. For more information about Denver, contact us today!