Knoxville Community Invited to Share Opinions on Greenhouse Gas Emissions Through New Survey

Knoxville Residents Encouraged to Share Views on Greenhouse Gas Emissions

If you live in Knoxville or any of its surrounding counties, now’s your chance to voice your opinion on a crucial issue: greenhouse gas emissions. The Knoxville Regional Transportation Planning Organization (TPO) is reaching out to the community with an open invitation to participate in a survey aimed at understanding public perspectives on climate change, energy efficiency, and transportation.

What’s the Scoop?

Residents in the nine counties that make up the Knoxville Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) — Knox, Anderson, Blount, Campbell, Grainger, Loudon, Morgan, Roane, and Union — are encouraged to take a quick ten-minute survey. This survey features fifteen questions designed not only to assess local awareness about climate change but also to capture attitudes and lifestyle choices that could impact future policy decisions.

Why Your Opinion Matters

The data collected from this survey will play a significant role in shaping a public engagement strategy that reflects the diverse population of the Knoxville MSA. It’s about time we come together and figure out how we can effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions, not just for ourselves, but for future generations.

The survey remains open until September 30, 2024, and can be easily accessed online at https://www.knoxbreathesurvey.com/. Rest assured, your answers will be confidential. The organizers have promised that no personally identifying information will be shared, allowing participants to express their views freely.

Backing from the EPA

In exciting news, Knoxville was selected by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2023 to receive a planning grant for a regional emission reduction plan. This grant is part of the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) program, which is designed to promote ambitious plans for tackling greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. Knoxville is among 82 metropolitan areas across the U.S. that benefited from this funding, which comes under the federal Inflation Reduction Act.

All Hands on Deck

The project titled “BREATHE”, which stands for the Knoxville region’s initiative under the CPRG program, aims to not only reduce emissions but also heighten awareness about climate change. The City of Knoxville’s Office of Sustainability is leading the charge, working in partnership with the Knoxville Regional TPO.

Additionally, the State of Tennessee is currently working on a larger strategy known as the Tennessee Volunteer Emission Reduction Strategy (TVERS). This is spearheaded by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) and aligns with the local efforts to combat climate change.

What Lies Ahead

The ultimate goal of the “BREATHE” initiative is to strengthen Knoxville’s response to climate change and produce a Comprehensive Climate Action Plan. This ambitious plan is expected to be submitted to the EPA by December 1, 2025.

Taking part in the survey allows residents to have a say in how these important initiatives unfold. The planners really want to hear from you — because every voice counts when aiming for a greener future!

Get Involved!

If you’re concerned about the environment, transportation, or energy use in your community, don’t miss this opportunity. Your opinion can contribute to real changes that benefit the Knoxville region and beyond. To learn more about the “BREATHE” initiative, simply visit knoxbreathe.org.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a cup of coffee, sit down for a few minutes, and make your voice heard. Together, we can create a healthier, more sustainable environment for everyone!