Since introducing the first climate action plan in 2009, Philadelphia has made meaningful strides to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve public health through cleaner air and water, advance environmental justice, and prepare the city for a hotter and wetter future. Today, the Office of Sustainability is excited to share the 2025 Climate Action Update to showcase the City’s latest progress. 

The new report highlights the City’s climate action over the past four years, guided by strategies in the 2021 Philadelphia Climate Action Playbook. Highlights from the 2025 Climate Action Update include: 

  • The City’s largest conservation project to date. The Philadelphia Streetlight Improvement Project is converting all City streetlights to longer-lasting, energy-efficient LED lights with controls. As of May 2025, the project is over 80% complete and on track to be completed in fall 2025. A recent study showed a 21% reduction in gun violence in areas with upgraded streetlights.
  • A 70-megawatt power purchase agreement. The Adams Solar Project, launched in 2023, boosted the City’s renewable energy portfolio to 30%.  
  • Reduced plastic bag litter. The Plastic Bag Ban, which took effect in 2022, has eliminated an estimated more than 200 million plastic bags from distribution. It has reduced a major litter source from streets, waterways and landfills.  
  • A cleaner municipal fleet. Emissions from municipal light- and medium-duty vehicles decreased by 10% from 2019 levels, keeping the City on track to meet its Municipal Clean Fleet Plan goal of a 45% reduction by 2030. 
  • Planning for a stronger and more resilient Philadelphia. The City is updating Philadelphia’s Climate Resilience Plan with input from residents across the city. Through in-person and virtual activities, and a public survey available in 8 languages, residents can help guide the plan to prepare and strengthen the city for climate impacts. 

Visit the full report for the complete list.  

City and regional actions have contributed to a 31% reduction in citywide greenhouse gas emissions since 2006, as reported in the 2022 Greenhouse Gas Inventory. Through continued collaboration and support from community, philanthropic, and government partners, the City is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and building a future where every Philadelphian can thrive.

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Read the 2025 Climate Action Update to learn about the City’s latest efforts to address climate change, build resilience, and improve quality of life for all residents.