Climate Action Planning

SMPDC supports southern Maine communities with climate action planning. A Climate Action Plan (CAP) is a strategic plan that lays out policies and programs for reducing a community's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change. The State of Maine as well as several local communities have already created CAPs.

Example Climate Action Plans:

• Maine Won't Wait - A Four Year Plan for Climate Action
• One Climate Future - A Climate Action Plan for Portland and South Portland
• Town of York, Maine Climate Action Plan

Climate Change Impacts in Southern Maine: A Regional Summary (2026 Update)

This report summarizes the anticipated climate change impacts on southern Maine communities. It is intended to help local communities develop Climate Action Plans and inform the public about the possible effects of climate change in the region. Through local actions and solutions, we will build stronger communities and protect all Maine community members from climate change impacts.

 

Southern Maine Climate Action Planning (CAP) Cohort

The communities of Biddeford, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Kittery are developing their Climate Action Plans through a cohort process. The communities are all working with SMPDC and the other project team members as well as each other to develop their climate action plans concurrently.

 

City of Saco Climate Adaptation and Action Plan

SMPDC worked with municipal staff to develop a Climate Adaptation and Action Plan for the City of Saco. Visit SacoMaine.org/Climate to learn more.

 

Climate Action Planning (CAP) Toolkit

SMPDC has developed a set of resource materials (templates, plan development resources, and example materials) for Maine communities to utilize for their climate action planning activities. These materials were developed under the Joint Land Use Study (JLUS) Grant and with input from SMPDC’s CAP Cohort.