New climate inventory shows Dallas cutting pollution across neighborhoods and government operations while growth continues to reshape the city’s environmental challenges

Dallas, Texas – Dallas is reporting measurable progress in its long-term effort to curb climate-warming pollution, according to the city’s 2023 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory. The latest findings show community-wide emissions have fallen by about 11 percent since 2015, the baseline year used to track reduction goals under the Comprehensive Environmental and Climate Action Plan.

Emissions tied specifically to local government operations dropped even further, declining roughly 29 percent over the same period.

City leaders view the numbers as an early but meaningful step toward Dallas’ broader objective of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere and are a primary driver of climate change, making their reduction central to the city’s environmental strategy.

Sixteen municipal departments are involved in carrying out climate-focused actions, ranging from energy-efficiency improvements and renewable energy use to expanded recycling and waste-diversion programs.

Although Dallas has monitored emissions in various forms since 2006, the 2023 report marks only the third full inventory measuring pollution across the entire city and within government operations. The analysis accounts for emissions generated through energy use, transportation, waste handling, industrial activity, and land-use changes.

It also evaluates pollution tied to public buildings, airport facilities, vehicle fleets, street infrastructure, water systems, and solid-waste services.

Local officials say consistent measurement is essential for guiding future policy and investment. Council Member Kathy Stewart described the reduction as significant, particularly as Dallas continues to grow, while emphasizing the importance of technology, policy, and data in reaching long-term climate targets.

Environmental Commission Chair Kathryn Guerra noted the inventory helps clarify where resources and programs can most effectively lower emissions in the years ahead.

City sustainability leaders stress the work is still in its early stages. Efforts now underway include green business certification, urban agriculture support, and expanded electric-vehicle charging infrastructure.

Officials also encourage residents to play a role by conserving energy and water, reducing waste, and using public transportation—steps they say collectively strengthen Dallas’ path toward a cleaner and more resilient future.