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1986
UNM installs its first cogeneration unit.
1987
World Commission on Environment and Development releases Brundtland Report.
1992:
United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (informally known as the Earth Summit) held and adopted three major agreements:
UN Convention on Climate Change
UN Convention on Biological Diversity
UN Convention to Combat the Spread of Deserts
1994
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, an international environmental treaty, begins annual meetings called the Conference Of the Parties (COP) to assess international progress on climate change.
2000:
City of Albuquerque begins methane capture and flaring at closed Cerro Colorado Landfill.
2002:
New Mexico Public Regulation Commission implements a Renewable Portfolio Standard requiring utilities to procure a minimum percentage of electricity from renewable sources.
2006:
State of New Mexico Governor signs Executive Order 2006-001, dictating that all new state buildings and remodels over 15,000 square feet must be designed and constructed to meet or exceed the LEED Silver certification or higher.
New Mexico Rail Runner begins service.
Bernalillo County establishes Water Conservation Program to support Bernalillo County residents outside of the Water Authority service area with water conservation resources.
2007:
US Supreme Court authorizes EPA to regulate greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act.
New Mexico Public Regulation Commission increases the Renewable Portfolio Standards to 20% by 2020 for investor-owned utilities.
UNM completes first greenhouse gas inventory.
UNM implements smart metering in utility systems.
UNM launches Sustainability Studies Program.
UNM President signs American College & University Presidents’ Climate Commitment.
2008:
City of Albuquerque publishes its first climate action plan, outlining actions to reduce pollution from municipal operations.
UNM adopts sustainability as a core organizational value.
2009:
EPA Releases endangerment finding for GHG, stating that atmospheric concentrations of six key greenhouse gases (carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxides, hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride) endanger the public health and welfare.
UNM releases its first Climate Action Plan.
UNM completes second greenhouse gas inventory.
2010:
State of New Mexico starts the Double Up Food Bucks program.
UNM establishes Lobo Gardens.
2012
APS installs its first full-sized photovoltaic system at Nusenda Community Stadium.
2013
APS creates the Water & Energy Conservation Committee (WECC), the APS Energy Center, and the APS Energy Team.
2014:
President of the United States announces the United States’ commitment to reduce greenhouse gases, on an economy-wide basis, by 26%-28% from 2005 levels by the year 2025.
2015:
World leaders sign the Paris Agreement, a binding international treaty that seeks to limit global climate change, at the Conference of the Parties.
EPA issues Carbon Pollution Standards for new, modified, and reconstructed power plants and the Clean Power Plan for existing power plants.
Pope Francis releases Laudato si’, emphasizing that the ecological crises are moral issues.
State of New Mexico Education Department publishes the Environmental Literacy Plan.
2017:
PNM announces plans to exit coal.
2018
Bernalillo County completes and adopts the 2019 International District Urban Agriculture Plan, outlining needs and identifying 9 priority project sites.
2019:
State of New Mexico Governor signs Executive Order 2019-003, implementing a goal to reduce economy-wide GHG emissions to 45% below 2005 levels by 2030; created the Climate Change Task Force responsible for creating regulatory strategies to successfully achieve this goal.
State of New Mexico passes Senate Bill 48, the Energy Transition Act, setting state goals of 50% renewable energy by 2030, 80% by 2040, and 100% carbon-free by investor-owned utilities by 2045.
State of New Mexico Governor signs Executive Order 2019-003, directing the State’s Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department to develop a regulatory framework to reduce oil and gas sector methane emissions and prevent waste.
State of New Mexico passes House Bill 204, the Healthy Soil Act, which establishes a grant program under the NM Department of Agriculture to improve soil health in the state.
City of Albuquerque establishes the Sustainability Office.
Bernalillo County adopts A.R.2019.91, establishing Sustainability and reduction of carbon emissions as a Bernalillo County priority and acknowledging a climate emergency.
Grow New Mexico releases the 2019 Albuquerque Food and Agriculture Action Plan for the City of Albuquerque.
Albuquerque Rapid Transit begins service.
Navajo Nation starts Light Up Navajo project—bringing electricity to homes that never had power.
City of Albuquerque launches Let’s Plant ABQ Initiative to plant 100,000 trees as a gift from one generation to the next.
APS builds its first off-grid facility at Sandia Mountain Learning Center, featuring stand-alone solar electricity and heating.
2020:
State of New Mexico passes House Bill 93, Efficient Use of Energy Act.
State of New Mexico passes House Bill 233, Energy Grid Modernization Roadmap Act.
State of New Mexico passes House Bill 118, allowing benefit corporations.
The City of Albuquerque publishes 2020 Greenhouse Gas Inventory, its first community-wide inventory using 2017 data.
City of Albuquerque receives a Silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community designation by the League of American Bicyclists, by encouraging people to bike for transportation and recreation through the five Es: equity, engineering, education, encouragement, and evaluation.
2021:
City of Albuquerque releases the 2021 Vision Zero Action Plan, which helps create safer streets, eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries, and develop safe, healthy, equitable mobility for all.
State of New Mexico passes House Bill 15, Sustainable Building Tax Credit.
State of New Mexico passes Senate Bill 84, Community Solar Act.
City of Albuquerque releases the 2021 Albuquerque Climate Action Plan, its second plan, outlining actions for municipal and community action.
State of New Mexico enacts comprehensive oil & gas emissions rules that limit venting, flaring, and require better leak detection - setting the stage for large reductions in methane and other pollutants.
Bernalillo County Commission approves agenda item directive to “undertake the development of a Sustainability and Climate Action Plan”
United States rejoins Paris Climate Agreement.
United States President signs Executive Order 14008, directing federal agencies to submit plans to show how each agency will adapt to the impacts of climate pollution.
America Is All In, a nationwide coalition of cities, states, businesses and institutions committed to climate action, formally launches; state and local actors in Central New Mexico become eligible to join this broader climate‑action movement.
APS incorporates a water leak phone app, identifying and ranking water leaks daily.
APS exceeds 400,000 kWh of solar production per month at 28 facilities.
2022:
City of Albuquerque achieves SolSmart Gold Designation, verifying a commitment to solar energy and removing obstacles to growth.
Western Spirit, the largest Wind Farm at the time, comes online in Torrance County.
State of New Mexico passes Community Energy Efficiency Development Block Grant.
Los Alamos County publishes its first Climate Action Plan.
San Juan Coal Plant Generating Station closes.
State of New Mexico adopts the Clean Car Rule (Advanced Clean Cars I) via the Environmental Improvement Board and Albuquerque-Bernalillo County Air Quality Board, requiring automakers to sell increasing numbers of clean vehicles starting with model year 2026.
State of New Mexico awards $600,000 to the City of Albuquerque for the Balanced Resource Acquisition and Information Network (BRAIN).
Local governments in Bernalillo County adopt a Hazard Mitigation Plan that addresses resiliency in the face of climate change impacts such as drought, extreme heat, wildfires, flooding, etc.
APS completes major upgrade to smart irrigation controls district-wide, enabling instantaneous remote monitoring and scheduling of irrigation systems.
US Inflation Reduction Act passes, becoming the world’s largest climate investment in history, providing nearly $370 billion in climate action funds.
2023:
City of Albuquerque adopts Zero Fares program.
City of Albuquerque receives a $3.9 million award from the New Mexico Department of Transportation Carbon Reduction Program to install 36 public electric vehicle charging stations throughout Albuquerque and the Albuquerque International Sunport.
City of Albuquerque releases the Vision Zero 2023 Year-in-Review / Action Plan Update, summarizing progress and prioritizing next steps to eliminate traffic deaths and serious injuries.
Bernalillo County completes organizational greenhouse gas inventory.
Bernalillo County hires Sustainability Coordinator.
Bernalillo County Commission approves Investment Grade Audit at 11 County facilities.
State of New Mexico passes House Bill 95, Renewable Energy Office in State Land Office.
New Mexico adopts Advanced Clean Cars II & Advanced Clean Trucks Standards, increasing zero-emission vehicle requirements (light, medium, heavy duty) for new vehicle deliveries to the state.
State of New Mexico creates Land of Enchantment Legacy Fund, establishing a long-term, dedicated revenue stream for conservation, restoration, and natural resource protection statewide.
City of Albuquerque, State of New Mexico, Santa Ana, Sandia, Navajo Nation, and Pueblo Consortia of Tesuque, Nambe, and Picuris receive Climate Pollution Reduction Grant for climate planning.
Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District receives $759,000 in federal grant funds for food waste reduction projects.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change releases the AR6 Synthesis Report, which integrates findings from three international working groups.
Central New Mexico Community College launches clean energy apprenticeships.
Pope Francis releases Laudate Deum, calling for global action on climate.
US publishes Fifth National Climate Assessment Report.
2024:
City of Albuquerque passes F/S R-24-34, updating the City’s Sustainability Resolution.
City of Albuquerque develops the 2024 Bikeway and Trail Facilities Plan, which recommends and prioritizes bikeway and trail projects across the city to make biking a safer and more appealing mobility option for people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
City of Albuquerque starts the ABQ RIDE Connect microtransit program, using electric passenger vans to provide on-demand rideshare service in areas that lack access to fixed bus routes.
City of Albuquerque permits several companies to provide local e-scooter micromobility services
Bernalillo County receives a $417,000 Diesel Emissions Reduction Grant from the New Mexico Environment Department, dedicated to the purchase of the County’s first all-electric fire truck.
Bernalillo County establishes a special account where energy efficiency rebates and tax credit money can be directed for future use on sustainability-related projects.
State of New Mexico releases the 50-Year Water Action Plan.
State of New Mexico passes House Bill 41, Clean Transportation Fuel Standards, making New Mexico the fourth state with such standards to reduce emissions intensity of transportation fuels and invest credit revenue into low-income/underserved communities.
State of New Mexico enacts House Bill 177, the New Mexico Match Fund, a new state matching‑grant fund designed to help local governments, tribal entities, and public agencies access federal infrastructure and funding by covering required local matching costs.
State of New Mexico and City of Albuquerque completes community-based greenhouse gas inventories, helping improve local emissions tracking, under funding from the EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program.
City of Albuquerque Office of Sustainability launches the Central New Mexico Resilient Futures Initiative using funding from the EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program, signaling the start of a coordinated regional climate planning effort.
E2 recognizes New Mexico as a leader in clean energy job growth in their report.
Sandia Pueblo receives a $1.9M CPRG Implementation Grant to install solar panels and electric vehicle chargers at the Sandia Resort and Casino.
Los Alamos County conducts its first greenhouse gas inventory and adopted its first Climate Action Plan.
Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District Water and Natural Resources Property Tax Measure is passed allowing the district to leverage property tax dollars to protect drinking water sources and the health of rivers and streams
UNM releases first greenhouse gas inventory in a decade.
PNM implements the 2024-2026 Transportation Electrification Program, which creates various incentives, rebates, and programs to encourage e-mobility in their service areas.
APS concludes its first 10-year goal of water and energy use reduction, then turns to carbon reduction for its next goal.
2025:
City of Albuquerque begins implementation of the ABQ RIDE Forward Network Plan, a once-in-a-generation bus route network update to meet the evolving needs of the transit community and encourage greater use of public transit.
State of New Mexico Governor signs Senate Bill 83, establishing the Innovation in State Government Fund that provides critical funding to state agencies to assist in: (1) achieving net-zero emissions; (2) implementing sustainable economic policies; (3) providing technical support to entities applying for grants and other funding that seek to address climate change; and/or (4) implementing, enabling or reducing the barriers to implementing climate change policy.
State of New Mexico passes House Bill 291, the Recycling, Circular Economy, Illegal Dumping Act, which spurs economic development through market-driven recycling programs (including composting), fostering a more circular economy.
City of Albuquerque earns a Silver-Level Bicycle Friendly Community Award
Bernalillo County receives a Municipal Investment Grant for $250,000 to support resilience planning for facilities and operations.
Bernalillo County receives a $500,000 DC Fast Charger Grant from the New Mexico Department of Transportation to install a Level III EV charging station in downtown Albuquerque.
Bernalillo County completes construction on its first multi-site energy efficiency project, investing more than $18,000,000 in updates to windows, lighting, HVAC, insulation, and electrical infrastructure at 11 critical County facilities.
Bernalillo County completes installation of seven new solar installations, nearly 500 kW of energy generation.
Bernalillo County begins work on its first Climate Resilience Plan for County operations and facilities.
State of New Mexico passes Senate Bill 48, establishing the Community Benefits Fund to fund projects that decrease state greenhouse gas emissions, including updating public buildings, reducing leaks and releases attributable to the extractive industries, assisting decreasing use of internal combustion engines and assisting public entities with funding vehicles and infrastructure, increasing grid capacity and use of renewables, and establish or expand economic development needed to address the economic implications of climate change.
State of New Mexico launches the state’s Comprehensive Energy Transition Strategy.
University of New Mexico publishes its first Sustainability Plan, which includes climate-related goals and actions.
First Community Solar project comes online in Belen.
State of New Mexico methane rules (for oil & gas facilities) are shown by satellite data to have reduced methane intensity significantly in the Permian Basin, yielding both environmental and economic benefits.
PNM Launches Power Pros - a high school workforce training program preparing kids for a career in the energy industry.
Interfaith Power and Light launches Project Houses of Worship to help all congregations reduce energy use and adopt renewable energy systems.
APS exceeds 800,000 kWh of solar production per month at 42 facilities.
APS puts in service, after a three-year logistical challenge, a state- and federally-supported battery storage pilot project at Atrisco Heritage Academy High School.
World Resources Institute publishes State of Climate Action 2025 ahead of COP 30.
C40 Cities publishes C40 in 20, a summary of climate action success from large cities across the globe.
US Climate Alliance publishes annual report ahead of COP 30.
New Mexico Governor attends COP 30 in Brazil.
State of New Mexico and City of Albuquerque submit their Comprehensive Climate Action Plans to the EPA.
2026:
Bernalillo County passes The Data Center Project Guardrails resolution. The resolution holds AI data centers accountable for their own electricity and water usage and requires investment in the community by way of workforce development, paying living wages, and requiring a minimum tax due to the county, also known as Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT).
Bernalillo County begins work on a Climate Resilience Hub action plan for its community centers.
Bernalillo County signs on as a Community Solar Anchor Tenant, offsetting nearly 7 MW of County electricity usage.
State of New Mexico passes House Bill 111, Water Law Violation Maximum Penalty, successfully increasing penalties for water use violations for the first time since 1907.
State of New Mexico passes Senate Bill 193, the Acequia and Ditch Infrastructure Fund Transfer, which doubles the Acequia and Community Ditch Infrastructure Fund (ACDIF) allocation from $2.5 million to $5 million, providing essential funding for acequia community infrastructure projects.
State of New Mexico’s House Bill 2, the Budget Bill, includes $13 million for the Strategic Water Reserve Fund, $2.5 million to implement the Water Security Planning Act, $20 million for uranium mining reclamation, $5 million for remediation of neglected contaminated sites, $10 million for the River Stewardship Program, $1.5 million for the State Surface Water Permitting Program, $25 million for industrial decarbonization initiatives, $130,000 to study pollution reduction and cost-savings opportunities through a state composting program, $22 million for the characterization of groundwater and aquifer mapping and monitoring, and $9 million for bosque management projects in the Middle Rio Grande Valley.
State of New Mexico Environment Department approves a fee increase for air permits for the first time since 2009.
State of New Mexico Environment Department launches the Clean Transportation Fuel Program to reduce climate pollution from transportation fuels used in New Mexico. The program establishes a statewide carbon intensity standard for transportation fuel that decreases annually, and creates a market mechanism where organizations must acquire or can generate credits for transportation fuels, relative to the carbon intensity standard.
APS puts in service 26 electric school buses, along with EV charging infrastructure, at two APS school bus depots.
City of Albuquerque publishes the public-facing Central New Mexico Comprehensive Climate Action Plan
2027:
State of New Mexico and City of Albuquerque submit a status report to the EPA.
Santa Ana, Sandia, Navajo Nation, and Pueblo Consortia of Tesuque, Nambe, and Picuris submit their Comprehensive Climate Action Plans to the EPA.
APS will add dedicated charging infrastructure for additional school buses as well as light-duty fleet vehicles.
2030:
Central New Mexico’s mid-term goal to meet the Science-Based Target initiative.
2035:
PNM’s commitment to reduce freshwater use by 80% from 2005 levels.
2040:
PNM’s commitment to achieve carbon-free electricity and meet an 80% renewable portfolio standard.
PNM’s commitment to reduce freshwater use by 90% from 2005 levels.
2050:
International goals to reach net-zero emissions.
Learn about existing efforts and resources, and contribute to our collective resources, below!
1.0 Climate Leadership
1.1 Expand Climate Education
The Central New Mexico Comprehensive Climate Action Plan provides a robust overview of climate action and resources available to New Mexican’s.
The City of Albuquerque Office of Sustainability’s Suggested Activity Matrix helps major institutions choose high‑impact climate actions for organizational climate action plans (email sustainabity@cabq.gov for access).
The New Mexico Public Education Department promotes sustainability curriculum through the Environmental Literacy Plan and the Outdoor Learning Initiative.
The UNM Sustainability Studies Program trains future climate leaders through interdisciplinary coursework and community projects.
Project ECHO at UNM Health Sciences Center offers a Climate Change and Human Health ECHO program that trains health professionals on climate science, health impacts, and risk communication.
The Climate Hope Curriculum from 350.org provides student-focused climate education resources, promoted locally by Albuquerque Public Schools.
The Sierra Club Rio Grande Chapter convenes partners for Earth Day and other events and mobilizes residents for local climate action.
The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority reaches over 20,000 students each year with water and sustainability education.
Explora Science Center offers climate‑related exhibits and hands‑on programs that build environmental literacy.
ABQ BioPark education programs connect visitors to conservation, biodiversity, and climate change.
The Healthy Climate New Mexico brings educators, advocates, and agencies together to expand climate literacy during their Extreme Heat Summit every spring.
NM Climate Masters, run by the Santa Fe Watershed Association, provides 30+ hours of New Mexico‑focused climate curriculum and action planning.
Events such as the Earth Day New Mexico Festival and the UNM Sustainability Expo showcase local climate solutions and help residents learn how to get involved.
Residents can explore the largest greenhouse gas emitters using EPA’s FLIGHT tool and track global emissions through ClimateTRACE.
The New Mexico Climate Hub (USDA) provides climate adaptation tools, factsheets, and workshops for land managers and producers in Central New Mexico.
The New Mexico PBS “Our Land” series offers accessible media on climate, water, and conservation that can be used in classrooms and community meetings.
Los Alamos County conducted its first greenhouse gas inventory and adopted its first Climate Action Plan in November 2024.
Bernalillo County provides public education and outreach on natural resource conservation through Natural Resource Services and Open Space programs.
The Migration Data Portal’s Environmental Migration page, helps tell the story of climate refugees across the world through data.
https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat-illness provides advice on how to identify, prevent, and manage heat stress.
1.2 Expand Climate Governance
The IPCC Sixth Assessment Report summarizes the latest global science on climate risks, adaptation, and mitigation.
The New Mexico Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory shows which sectors produce the most emissions statewide.
The Central New Mexico 2023 Community-wide Greenhouse Gas Inventory details emissions by sector for the metro region.
The New Mexico Climate Risk Map visualizes climate hazards (heat, flooding, wildfire, air quality) and community vulnerability to support data‑informed decisions.
The Coalition of Sustainable Communities New Mexico supports local governments with policy advocacy, peer learning, and implementation support.
The New Mexico Climate Change Task Force coordinates state agencies to implement the Energy Transition Act and advance climate equity.
Sustainability staff at the City of Albuquerque, Bernalillo County, UNM Sustainability, and CNM Sustainability integrate climate goals into operations and report progress.
National and international networks such as ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, the Urban Sustainability Directors Network, Project Drawdown, C40 Knowledge Hub, and RMI provide technical support and best practices to local and tribal governments.
The Conservation Voters New Mexico Legislative Scorecard tracks how state legislators vote on climate and conservation issues and helps voters make informed choices.
Businesses and cities can disclose their climate risks and actions through CDP.The New Mexico Climate Action Plan and Climate Adaptation and Resilience Plan outline statewide strategies for emissions reduction and resilience.
The Middle Region Council of Governments supports regional climate‑aligned planning through its Metropolitan Transportation Program.
Several Pueblos and Tribal Nations (e.g., Pueblo of Isleta, Santa Ana, Sandia, and Navajo Nation) are advancing their own climate and resilience planning, using federal grants and technical partners.
The State of New Mexico’s Executive Order 2019-003 directs state agencies to tackle climate change and energy waste.
Bernalillo County Commission adopted Administrative Resolution 2019-91, establishing sustainability and reduction of emissions as a County priority and declaring a climate emergency.
Bernalillo County Commission adopted Administrative Resolution 2023-18 to reaffirm the previous AR and direct County staff to complete a climate action and sustainability plan for County operations.
State of New Mexico has a weather station network run by NSU across the state monitoring heat over time. State of New Mexico tracks heat-related illness data and is working on an occupational health and safety rule.
New York Times Interactive Heat Map shows heat hotspots across the country.
https://climatecheck.com/
1.3 Accelerate Climate Finance
The City of Albuquerque published a Funding and Financing Overview report, showcasing various options to pay for climate actions outlined in this plan.
The State of New Mexico provides grants, tax credits, and rebates that support climate and clean energy projects. Opportunities for individuals can be found on their clean energy website.
The City of Albuquerque and Bernalillo County are using funds from the Automated Speed Enforcement Program to fund Vision Zero public safety infrastructure projects for pedestrians and cyclists (AES FAQ).
The Las Cruces plastic bag fee helps fund sustainability staffing and programs while reducing waste.
The New Mexico Climate Investment Center offers loans and financing tools for energy efficiency, clean energy, and resilience projects with a focus on low‑income and tribal communities.
PNM rebates and financing support residential and commercial energy efficiency upgrades.
New Mexico Community Capital provides capital and training for sustainable and minority‑owned businesses.
The New Mexico Finance Authority and its Water Trust Board finance water, energy, and conservation projects.
The Albuquerque Community Foundation offers grants for environmental and historic preservation.
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and Inflation Reduction Act mark the world’s largest investment in climate action, and provided major federal funding for local clean energy, resilience, and transportation projects that Central New Mexico communities are currently implementing.
The World Resource Institute report highlights that for every US $1 invested in climate adaptation can yield over US $10.50 in benefits over a decade, with average annual returns between 20% and 27%.
NM Angels help
1.4 Advance Sustainable Economies
The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report identifies environmental risks among the most significant and accelerating business threats globally — and the past decade of scientific data reinforces this reality.
Certified B Corporations in New Mexico (e.g., Meow Wolf, Little Toad Creek Brewery) demonstrate environmentally and socially responsible business models.
New Mexico Benefit Corporation law (HB118) enables companies to embed public benefit and environmental goals into their corporate structure.
The New Mexico EDD Sustainable Economy Task Force plans for a just transition away from fossil fuels.
New Mexico for Good and the UNM Anderson Center for Responsible Business help entrepreneurs build climate‑aligned, community‑focused businesses.
The CNM Ethics in Business Awards recognize organizations advancing ethical and sustainable practices.
The Los Alamos and Sandia National Laboratories tech transfer programs support clean‑tech and climate‑related innovation and startups.
The Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance recruits and expands green businesses using tools such as Industrial Revenue Bonds, the Job Training Incentive Program, and the Local Economic Development Act.
The Four Corners Carbon Coalition funds regional carbon removal and reuse pilot projects.
The New Mexico Outdoor Recreation Division supports climate‑sensitive outdoor businesses and trail projects that diversify rural and tribal economies.
Santa Fe Green Chamber of Commerce, Las Cruces Green Chamber of Commerce, NM Climate meetups, and NM Tech Talks, convene responsible businesses and ideate market-driven climate solutions.
1.5 Support the Green Workforce
The City of Albuquerque published a Workforce Analysis, showcasing strengths and opportunities for advancing actions outlined in this plan.
CNM’s clean energy and trades programs prepare students for solar, HVAC, building electrification, and EV maintenance careers.
New Mexico Workforce Connection supports workers pursuing green jobs and training opportunities.
Ancestral Lands Conservation Corps, New Mexico Youth Conservation Corps, and AmeriCorps offer paid conservation and restoration positions for youth and young adults.
Workforce Connection of Central New Mexico connects residents, especially young people and career‑changers, to training and employers in climate‑related fields.
Santa Fe Community College’s EnergySmart Academy and green building programs train workers for energy efficiency, solar, and sustainable building jobs.
Goodwill Industries of New Mexico provides workforce training and placement that can connect participants to trades and sustainability‑related careers.
The New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions Green Jobs portal highlights high‑growth energy and infrastructure careers supported by state and federal investments.
World Bank’s Jobs in a Changing Climate analysis highlights climate investments could generate the equivalent of up to 150 million jobs by 2050 world-wide.
2. Existing Efforts & Resources in Water and Waste
2.1 Reduce Water Use
The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority offers water‑saving rebates and extensive education programs.
The New Mexico Backyard Refuge Program (Friends of Valle de Oro NWR and Ciudad SWCD) promotes wildlife‑friendly and water‑wise landscaping.
Large institutions such as the City of Albuquerque and Albuquerque Public Schools have installed smart metering and conservation measures that save significant water each year.
The State’s network of Soil and Water Conservation Districts and agricultural water‑saving grants help producers conserve water.
The City of Albuquerque’s curb cut and green stormwater infrastructure permits allow residents and businesses to capture stormwater and reduce irrigation demand.
The City of Rio Rancho uses treated wastewater for irrigation and aquifer recharge.
The Water 2120 plan guides long‑term sustainable water supply for the Albuquerque metro area.
Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District Watershed Program and EPA Urban Waters Federal Partnership invests in the health of the Middle Rio Grande Watershed and engages in education and outreach.
The Bernalillo County Water Conservation Program provides public education on water conservation and financial assistance with water conservation retrofits for homes and businesses.
2.2 Reduce Food and Organic Waste
The City of Albuquerque Office of Sustainability is partnering with Little Green Bucket, Three Sisters Kitchen, and Bernalillo County Extension Master Composters to pilot food waste diversion models.
The Upper Gila Watershed Alliance’s New Earth Project diverts school food waste into compost.
Food is Free Albuquerque rescues excess fruit and produce from yards and gardens to feed people.
Roadrunner Food Bank redirects edible surplus food to communities and sends spoiled food to local farms like Polk’s Folly.
An International District Growers’ Market in Albuquerque’s District 6 is being supported through participatory budgeting and local partners such as UNM.
A mayoral local food system executive order directs City departments to expand affordable, equitable, and safe local food access.
Los Alamos County residents divert ~15% of their waste stream through curbside yard trimming collection program.
The UNM Food Recovery Network Chapter has a program to collect leftover food at retail operations on campus and bring it to the Lobo Food Pantry, and the app Lobo Eats alerts students, staff, and faculty about food leftover at events, addressing food waste and food insecurity.
The City of Albuquerque Sustainability Office’s food donation guide helps vendors prevent good food from going into the landfill by feeding people first.
2.3 Increase Composting and Compost Application
The Community Composting Co‑op (New Mexico Compost Coalition) supports neighborhood‑scale organics diversion and compost use.
The Water Authority’s “Compost del Rio Grande” program composts biosolids into soil amendment.
Soilutions offers commercial composting and landfill diversion for large food waste generators.
Little Green Bucket provides residential compost pickup in the Albuquerque area.
The City’s Sustainability Office maintains an online community composting map.
The State’s New Mexico Compost Study identifies gaps and opportunities to expand composting statewide.
The Recycling and Illegal Dumping (RAID) Grant under the New Mexico Environment Department supports projects across New Mexico that improve recycling infrastructure and expand waste diversion –including composting.
The Healthy Soil Program under the NM Department of Agriculture provides grants to improve soil health, including for composting projects.
Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District implements the Educating the Next Generation: Place-Based Food Waste Reduction and Compost Recycling Initiative project.
Mittuci’s Restaurant composts food waste with Soilutions, reducing operational emissions and boosting New Mexico soils.
UNM composts an average of 117 tons of food waste per year from back-of-house catering and dining hall operations.
2.4 Reduce Non‑food Waste
The City of Albuquerque, UNM, FUSE Makerspace, and partners host Fix‑It Clinics to help residents repair items instead of discarding them.
The Recycling and Illegal Dumping (RAID) Grant under the New Mexico Environment Department supports projects across New Mexico that improve recycling infrastructure, expand waste diversion, and address illegal dumping.
2.5 Increase Material Reuse and Repurposing
PNM’s refrigerator recycling program safely recovers old fridges and freezers and removes harmful refrigerants.
Companies like Fairphone and Purism offer long-lasting smartphones that use modular components, making it easier to repair, maintain, and recycle.
Many local governments offer recycling services directly to their residents and commercial customers, often including free hazardous waste drop-offs.
New Mexico Recycling Coalition provides statewide training, technical assistance, and directories.
Second‑hand stores, estate sales, and yard sales throughout Central New Mexico keep materials in use and reduce demand for new goods.
Clothing drives organized by governments, schools, and nonprofits extend the life of textiles.
The City of Albuquerque and Renuity Resources host Recyclothes textile recycling and additional Fix‑It Clinics.
The City and Bernalillo County capture methane from the Cerro Colorado landfill and pipe it to the Metropolitan Detention Center for use in water heating.
The Water Authority’s cogeneration plant uses digester gas to supply up to 70% of the wastewater plant’s electricity needs.
Bernalillo County’s IHaveTrash.com connects residents to recycling and reuse options; local businesses such as We Grow Eco and Broken Arrow Glass recycle textiles and glass.
UNM Residential Life & Student Housing collects commonly needed dorm items and clothing at move-out and offers them to incoming students during move-in.
3. Existing Efforts & Resources in Mobility and Transportation
3.1 Expand Public Transit and Ridership
ABQ RIDE Zero Fares provides free bus and paratransit service on all City routes, removing cost barriers.
The New Mexico Rail Runner Express connects Belen, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe by regional rail.
Rio Metro buses and Dial-a-Ride provide regional weekday bus service linking communities and the Rail Runner.
The ABQ RIDE Forward Network Redesign is updating routes to improve frequency, equity, and access.
The ABQ RIDE Public Safety Plan uses dedicated staff, better lighting, smart shelters, and technology to improve safety on the system.
The Transitions 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MRCOG) sets long‑range multimodal transportation and investment priorities for the region.
3.2 Increase Active Transportation
NMDOT’s Target Zero and Safe System Approach aim to eliminate roadway deaths through safer design, behavior, vehicles, and emergency response.
The City of Albuquerque Vision Zero and Complete Streets Ordinance commits to safer streets for all users and requires streets to serve people walking, biking, using transit, and driving.
The City of Albuquerque Bike Map highlights about 190 miles of paved multi‑use trails and 230 miles of on‑street bike lanes for cyclists around the city.
The Bikeway and Trail Facilities Plan guides investments in bike lanes and paved multi‑use trails.
The Bernalillo County Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety Action Plan improves walking and biking in unincorporated areas.
The Regional Transportation Safety Action Plan (MRCOG) outlines strategies and tools to improve roadway safety.
The APS Vision Zero for Youth Initiative focuses on safer routes for students.
The UNM Bike & Scooter Valet encourages campus micro‑mobility with monitored parking.
The Albuquerque Rail Trail will connect Downtown and nearby neighborhoods via a multi‑use path.
The Esperanza Bicycle Safety Education Center provides safety classes, repair clinics, and free bikes to income‑qualified residents.
The Rio Grande Trail is planned as a statewide greenway along the Rio Grande, including through Central New Mexico.
3.3 Promote Electric Micromobility
The PNM E‑Bike Rebate Program provides incentives toward e‑bike purchases.
The Shared Active Transportation Program regulates e‑scooter and e‑bike vendors such as Lime and Beam in Albuquerque.
3.4 Promote Shared Transportation
The Affordable Mobility Platform (AMP) is piloting shared EV carshare at affordable housing sites in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, and other cities, expanding access to clean transportation for low‑income residents.
ABQ RIDE Connect offers free, on‑demand microtransit using electric vans in underserved areas, connecting riders to transit, jobs, and services.
The Taos Ski Valley employee shuttle provides free shuttles for staff, reducing single‑occupancy vehicle trips.
MRCOG’s Rio Metro car/vanpools support shared commuting between communities and major job centers using services like Carpool World, Lyft, NMGo! New Mexico VanpoolUber, and UNM Shuttle Services
3.5 Develop EV Infrastructure & Electrify
The City of Albuquerque Public Charging Expansion is adding dozens of new public EV charging ports.
The City of Albuquerque’s Green Sticker Program offers up to two hours of free metered parking for qualifying EVs and plug‑in hybrids in city limits.
PNM’s Transportation Electrification Program provides EV charger rebates, special EV rates, and incentives for EV and e‑bike purchases.
Magpie Motors and online used‑EV platforms expand affordable EV options in Central New Mexico.
Tools like PlugShare, the NMDOT EV Dashboard, and the DOE Alternative Fueling Station Locator help drivers find charging stations.
The Albuquerque International Sunport EV Plan guides electrification of airport vehicles, buses, and ground support equipment.
Sierra Peaks has piloted locally manufactured EV chargers, building regional technical capacity.
NMDOT is deploying National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) fast‑charging corridors along major highways that connect Central New Mexico.
Los Alamos County developed a Fleet Conversion Plan and Community-Wide EV Charging Plan that provides a 25-year roadmap to strategically build out EV chargers.
4. Existing Efforts & Resources in Buildings and Energy
4.1 Advance Energy Efficiency & Electrification
New Mexico has adopted the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) to improve state-wide building efficiencies. Amendments to the code (2021 New Mexico Commercial Energy Conservation Code, 14.7.9 NMAC; and 2021 New Mexico Residential Energy Conservation Code, 14.7.6 NMAC) came into effect on 1/30/2024 and are mandatory for permits issued after 7/30/2024.
The New Mexico Building Decarbonization Roadmap recommends policies and programs to cut building emissions.
State of New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department’s Energy Conservation and Management Division centralizes energy‑related rebates, grants, and technical assistance. Check out their rebate website here!
PNM energy efficiency programs offer rebates for efficient appliances, smart thermostats, and weatherization.
Interfaith Power and Light’s Project HOW connects New Mexico faith communities with expert guidance and technical resources to turn congregations into community resilience hubs.
The New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority Home Weatherization and Rehabilitation Program provides free weatherization to income‑qualified households.
The NMSU Business Energy Efficiency Program helps businesses plan and implement energy‑saving upgrades.
Project H.E.A.T.S. ON (City of Albuquerque and UA Local 412) provides free furnace service and basic efficiency improvements for seniors.
Local window companies such as Glass‑Rite, Don’s Windows & Doors, and Affordable Glass & Mirror supply high‑efficiency products and support local jobs.
Green Analytics Energy Burden Data helps identify communities that pay disproportionately more for their energy than others.
The UNM Sustainability Strategic Plan states that all new buildings will be all-electric, and the two newest buildings under construction are the first all-electric buildings on campus, with another two all-electric buildings in the design phase.
Bernalillo County completed its first multi-Site energy efficiency project, investing more than $18 million dollars into LED lighting, electrical infrastructure updates, water conservation measures, HVAC updates, and solar installations at 12 critical County facilities.
4.2 Develop Distributed Renewables & Microgrids
The New Mexico Community Solar Program expands access to shared solar, with a significant portion reserved for low‑income subscribers.
The Coalition of Sustainable Communities New Mexico provides program education and outreach to encourage low-income participation.
The Mesa del Sol microgrid combines solar and battery storage for resilience.
Kirtland Air Force Base is piloting microgrid and resilience projects to ensure mission‑critical energy reliability.
The Meta (Facebook) Los Lunas Data Center is powered by utility‑scale solar projects in New Mexico.
Sandia National Laboratory’s Microgrid Research advances community‑scale microgrid and storage technologies.
PNM Solar Direct delivers solar power to large customers, including local governments and schools and Sky Blue provides renewable energy to any customer.
The Simms Building in Albuquerque and the Lightning Dock Geothermal Plan demonstrate geothermal heating and power.
Additional geothermal development, including projects serving the Meta data center and tribal and rural communities, is emerging with federal and state support.
The State of New Mexico is ranked 6th in the nation for geothermal potential. (New Mexico Tech University On Geothermal Potential).
Tools like the DOE microgrid database and resources help communities explore microgrid options.
Los Alamos County Department Public Utilities is building Foxtail Flats a 170MW Solar Array with ~80MW of battery storage that will provide 50% clean renewable energy to Los Alamos County, Los Alamos National Laboratory and Sandia National Laboratory.
4.3 Promote Sustainable & Natural Buildings
Sustainability and architecture programs at UNM and CNM integrate green design, passive strategies, and materials science.
Local firms such as Hartman + Majewski Design Group promote high-performance building envelopes, passive design using Passive House principles, and geothermal systems in the region.
The State of New Mexico and Los Alamos National Laboratory require many large projects to meet at least LEED Silver standards.
The U.S. Green Building Council New Mexico community connects practitioners and recognizes high‑performance buildings through LEED and related programs.
UNM’s campus has 29 LEED-certified buildings, 17 of which are at the Gold or Platinum level.
4.4 Develop Energy Storage Systems & Demand Response
Albuquerque Public Schools has piloted battery storage and a time-of-day cost structure to reduce demand charges and provide backup power for schools, saving over $370,000 in one year.
PNM’s Peak Saver and EV time‑of‑day rates encourage customers to shift electricity use away from peak hours.
Emerging battery and thermal storage projects at facilities such as the Sunport, universities, and hospitals are being pursued using state and federal funding to improve resilience.
4.5 Develop Transmission & Distribution Infrastructure
The New Mexico Renewable Energy Transmission Authority supports high‑voltage lines that move wind and solar from rural areas to population centers.
PNM’s Grid Modernization Plan upgrades substations, lines, and smart technologies to integrate more distributed renewables.
The Light Up Navajo initiative connects Navajo Nation homes to electricity through volunteer public power utilities and partners.
5. Existing Efforts & Resources in Land Use and Agriculture
5.1 Expand Urban Tree Coverage
Lists of climate-adapted trees are provided by the State of New Mexico Energy, Minerals, and Natural Resources Department, Tree New Mexico, and the Nature Conservancy.
Mayor Keller’s 100,000 Tree Initiative encourages citywide planting through 2030.City of Albuquerque Parks and Recreation receives $5 million USDA Urban and Community Forestry grant to expand urban tree canopy.
Tree New Mexico plants and stewards trees across the metro with volunteers and neighborhood groups.
The Albuquerque Community Food Forest at Alvarado Park demonstrates food‑producing urban forestry.
The Rio Grande Nature Center State Park offers education and habitat restoration projects in the bosque.
Use Park Serve Mapping Tool to find out how close your residents live to parks.
UNM is the only nationally accredited arboretum in New Mexico and also has the Tree Campus Higher Education designation from the Arbor Day Foundation. These designations come with Campus Tree Care Plans and annual planting goals.
5.2 Preserve Natural Lands
The Bosque Ecosystem Monitoring Program engages students and volunteers in long‑term monitoring of the Middle Rio Grande bosque.
Valle de Oro National Wildlife Refuge restores habitat on a former farm and offers extensive environmental education.
The Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District manages irrigation canals, drains, and riparian lands that support habitat and agriculture.
The State Forestry Collaborative Forest Restoration Program funds wildfire‑risk reduction and forest health projects.
The Nature Conservancy’s Rio Grande Water Fund is a large partnership that restores forests and reduces wildfire risk in the watershed.
Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District partners with Rio Grande Return, City of Albuquerque, and Bernalillo County to preserve and restore the Tijeras Sub Watershed and the Candelaria Nature Preserve.
5.3 Reduce Impermeable Surfaces
The City of Albuquerque Low Impact Development Program promotes green infrastructure in redevelopment.
Water-harvesting curb cuts are now legal in Albuquerque (Lancaster, August 2025).
Bernalillo County’s Green Stormwater Infrastructure and Low Impact Development (GSI/LID) Standards provide technical guidance and standard drawings for arid-adapted GSI/LID best management practices.
The Albuquerque Metropolitan Arroyo Flood Control Authority incorporates water capture and green space into flood control projects.
The City’s Complete Streets Ordinance allows homeowners to request curb cuts to direct stormwater into landscaped areas.
Bernalillo County joined the Smart Surfaces Coalition, which provides local government partners with the tools, training, and support needed to quantify and transform their surfaces to cool as the world warms, reduce flooding, and cut electricity bills.
5.4 Densify Communities
The City of Albuquerque Integrated Development Ordinance enables mixed‑use zoning, accessory dwelling units, and higher‑density infill.
The Transitions 2045 MTP promotes compact, multimodal development patterns.
Local New Mexico MainStreet districts (e.g., Barelas, Nob Hill, Downtown) support walkable, mixed‑use corridors.
The Arid Low Impact Development Coalition, a multi-disciplinary network of professionals and practitioners, provides a platform for collaboration to increase the use of green stormwater infrastructure, low impact development, and rainwater harvesting in New Mexico through education, policy advocacy, and demonstration projects in the Middle Rio Grande and New Mexico.
5.5 Promote Sustainable Agriculture
The NMSU Cooperative Extension Service offers training on soil health, irrigation efficiency, and regenerative practices.
Three Sisters Kitchen and the South Valley Economic Development Center provide commercial kitchens for small food businesses and local producers.
The Quivira Coalition supports regenerative agriculture and ranching transitions.
The Ciudad Soil and Water Conservation District promotes responsible land and water use on both rural and urban lands.
The Rio Grande Agricultural Land Trust conserves farmland and acequia landscapes through easements.
The Cultivating Bernalillo County Grow the Growers Program is a comprehensive farm training and business acceleration initiative designed to support new and emerging farmers, based at the historic Gutiérrez-Hubbell Open Space in the Albuquerque South Valley.
The New Mexico Healthy Soil Working Group offers education, resources,and networking opportunities for land stewards, including urban farmers and gardeners.
The Healthy Soil Program under the NM Department of Agriculture provides grants to improve soil health.
The Sevilleta Long Term Ecological Research site (UNM) studies climate, fire, and land‑use impacts; the New Mexico Bumble Bee Atlas is a long‑running pollinator monitoring effort.
Local networks like Agri-Cultura Network, Rio Grande Community Farm, and Sweet Grass Co‑op, support small farmers and farm‑to‑table distribution.
Los Jardines Institute and Valle Encantado Farms lead community‑based urban agriculture and education in the South Valley.
Pueblo‑led food sovereignty initiatives restore traditional agricultural practices and seed stewardship.
The New Mexico Farmers’ Marketing Association supports farmers’ markets, Double Up Food Bucks, and local food access programs that reward sustainable production.
Community Supported Agriculture farm shares links consumers directly with local food producers, giving farmers the capital they need and members fresh food throughout the season.