Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley Highlights Emission Reductions in County Operations

New data confirms additional emissions reductions in County operations are result of measurable progress toward climate goals

Latest emissions inventory data underscores the County’s sustained momentum and positions it within reach of 2030 milestone target

MILWAUKEE – Today, County Executive David Crowley highlighted the continued progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from County operations, as part of an annual Climate Action 2050 (CA50) Plan update report.

The Milwaukee County Office of Sustainability reported a 48% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions through 2024 from its 2005 baseline. This marks additional progress beyond the previously reported 46% reduction and positions the County on track, if not ahead of schedule, to meet its interim goal of a 50% reduction in emissions by 2030.

“In Milwaukee County, we know that the climate crisis is a real, pressing threat to our environment, our economy, our health, and our quality of life,” said County Executive Crowley. “At a time when federal climate leadership is stepping back, Milwaukee County is stepping forward. This milestone reflects my administration’s strategic investments and operational changes across County departments and service areas. We’re not just setting ambitious goals; we’re delivering results that put Milwaukee County on a clear path to meet our 2050 target and build a more sustainable, resilient future for our communities.”

The latest results are driven largely by reductions in emissions from County buildings and facilities, as well as transportation operations, both of which reached their lowest recorded levels to date, even surpassing reduced activity levels seen in 2020. Grant Helle, Director of the Office of Sustainability, credits facility and vehicle fleet rightsizing strategies, renewable energy adoption, and a focus on high efficiency equipment upgrades with driving down emissions.

“We’re seeing what happens when you make steady, intentional changes at scale,” said Helle. “The result is more efficient services today and a clear path to keep reducing emissions moving forward.”

Milwaukee County’s Climate Action 2050 Plan outlines a detailed roadmap to achieve long-term carbon neutrality, a 100% reduction in operational emissions by 2050. In April 2025, County Executive Crowley signed legislation formally adopting the strategic plan.

Additional details on Milwaukee County’s CA50 Plan progress are available through File No. 26-415 presented at the Committee on Community, Environment and Economic Development held on May 18, 2026.