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!
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
