Ashland Climate Action Resources – Community Research

Ashland Community Climate Connect 2021 Survey: Buildings and Energy

The SOU Office of Sustainability and the Ashland Climate Action Project (ACAP) of Southern Oregon Climate Action Now have partnered to gather residents’ views on various strategies and policies aimed at reducing Ashland’s climate impact.   The 2021 “Community Climate Connect” survey explored the topics of energy efficiency, solar energy, the use of natural gas and electricity for home energy, and climate change.  Residents were also asked about their experiences with smoke and excessive heat.

The online survey was developed using Survey Monkey and was open from November 18-December 31, 2021.  299 Ashland residents and employees completed the survey.

Residents expressed strong interest in reducing household emissions, and call for programs to make climate solutions accessible to all.

Summer 2020 Survey

In summer 2020, the Ashland Climate Action Project of Southern Oregon Climate Now (SOCAN), conducted an online survey of Ashland residents entitled, “Lessons Learned from Recent COVID Restrictions: Imagining the Future of Ashland.” Executive Summary: 225 individuals completed the survey, nearly all of whom live in Ashland as well as some who work here. The responses shed light on Ashlanders who are highly concerned about climate change and already taking individual action. Despite the disruption, confusion, and isolation of recent COVID social restrictions, nearly all respondents described positive aspects to their experience and an opportunity to see Ashland’s beauty and vulnerabilities in a new light. The vast majority stated that they are extremely (61%) or very (29%) concerned about climate change. Other findings:

  • 88% stated that it is important for individuals to take steps to adapt to climate change
  • 82% of respondents stated it is important for residents to reduce their climate impacts and nearly 86% have already taken steps to do so
  • Nearly 88% believe we can reduce our climate impacts and have a healthy local economy, and are calling for leaders to create a more diversified, sustainable, affordable, and resilient economy  
  • 84 respondents want to work on climate action issues in Ashland; the issues that most interest them include supporting local growers and promoting renewable energy

The results suggest that there is a significant number of Ashland residents who care deeply about climate issues and are willing and ready to work on climate action. The results also suggest that more education is needed about Ashland’s Climate and Energy Action Plan (CEAP) and how to achieve local greenhouse gas reduction goals. We conclude the report with additional recommendations for city operations, policymakers, residents and businesses along with resources for more information. Read the full Ashland Action Final Survey Report.