Although the temperatures are cooling off, we just wrapped up one heck of a hot summer here in Austin. In fact, according to the National Weather Service, it was our third hottest summer in recorded history. That’s why Mayor Steve Adler and the city’s Office of Sustainability have declared October as Climate Change Awareness Month. 

“We’re already seeing the impact of climate change here in Austin, and projections tell us to expect even more extreme weather,” said Adler in a press release. “On behalf of the City of Austin, I was happy to sign the ‘We Are Still In’ declaration, making a commitment to take every possible action to achieve the principles and goals of the Paris Climate Agreement. With everyone’s help we can fight climate change and protect this city we call home.”

Wondering how you can participate in Climate Change Awareness month?

The first-ever Mayor’s Carbon Reduction Challenge kicks off on October 23rd. During the challenge, Austinites will be invited to help reach a community-wide goal of avoiding 50,000 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions in just eight days using the Office of Sustainability’s Rethink/ app. The app gives you tips for adopting sustainable habits that will reduce emissions and can even save you money, like taking the bus or carpooling once a week, recycling more, conserving electricity, and switching to a smart thermostat. More info>>