HomeMy WebLinkAboutCM Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reports and Climate Action Priorites Update____________________________________________________________________________________
FOR CITY CLERK ONLY
Council Meeting: September 16, 2024
Disposition: Accepted the Greenhouse Gas Inventory Reports for 2022 and the Fiscal Year 2023-
2025 Two-Year Workplan Priorities Update
Agenda Item: 6.a
Meeting Date: September 16, 2024
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
Department: City Manager’s Office
Prepared by: Cory Bytof,
Sustainability Program Manager
City Manager Approval: ____ _____
TOPIC: GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REPORTS AND CLIMATE ACTION
PRIORITIES UPDATE
SUBJECTS: ACCEPT THE GREENHOUSE GAS INVENTORY REPORTS FOR
2022 AND THE FISCAL YEAR 2023-2025 TWO-YEAR WORKPLAN
PRIORITIES UPDATE
RECOMMENDATION:
Accept the Greenhouse Gas Inventory Reports for 2022 and the Fiscal Year 2023-2025 Two-
Year Workplan Priorities Update.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The City conducts annual community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventory reports to
gauge progress toward GHG reduction targets as reflected in the Climate Change Action Plan
2030 (CCAP). The most recent report is for calendar year 2022 which is the latest available data.
This report shows San Rafael has achieved a 34% reduction in community GHG emissions since
2005, which is estimated to be a 22% reduction from 1990 levels. This year, the City also
conducted an emissions inventory for local government operations, which is typically done every
five years. Government operations comprise a small portion of community emissions. This report
shows the City has achieved a 40% reduction in local government emissions since 2005, which
is estimated to be a 29% reduction from 1990 levels. In addition, every two years, City staff
develops a priority work plan and reports on progress at the one- and two-year marks. This year,
the City completed three major projects related to energy, transportation, and economic
development and has made progress on several others. Though the City has made significant
progress in many areas, it will need to redouble efforts to meet its ambitious reduction targets of
40% below 1990 levels by 2030.
BACKGROUND:
State of the Climate
2023 was the warmest year on record. The first six months of 2024 have each set new
temperature records. The world experienced its highest absolute global daily temperature on
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 2
record on July 22. Over the past 12 months, 138 countries have recorded their hottest
temperatures ever.
Climate change and the efforts to address it touch every aspect of society, from infrastructure to
health, natural ecosystems, the economy, and housing. For example, 2023 was a historic fire
season in Canada, with a burned area six times greater than the average year. Over 4,600
wildfires have already occurred in Canada this year, mid-way through fire season. 2023 also saw
the highest number of heat-related deaths ever recorded. Scientists are documenting increases
in hurricanes, droughts, and extreme weather events and are attributing these increases to
climate change. More information regarding these statistics can be found at Carbon Brief and the
World Meteorological Organization, among other sources.
California Climate Goals
The State of California has responded to growing concerns over the effects of climate change by
adopting a comprehensive approach to addressing emissions in the public and private sectors.
This approach was officially initiated with the passage of the Global Warming Solutions Act of
2006 (AB 32), which required the State to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to 1990
levels by 2020. The AB 32 Scoping Plan was developed to identify strategies for meeting the AB
32 goal and was adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) in December 2008.
Among many other strategies, it encouraged local governments to reduce emissions in their
jurisdictions by fifteen percent below 2005 baseline levels by 2020 and proposed longer-term
goals established by Executive Order S-3-05 to reduce emissions 80 percent below 1990 levels
by 2050.
In 2016, the State Legislature passed SB 32, which set interim targets of 40% reductions below
1990 levels by 2030. CARB subsequently updated its Climate Change Scoping Plan in 2017 to
lay out a strategy to achieve the 2030 target. In 2018, Executive Order B-55-18 committed
California to achieve carbon neutrality – the point at which the removal of carbon from the
atmosphere meets or exceeds emissions – by 2045. CARB subsequently updated the Scoping
Plan in 2022 to meet this goal.
City’s Climate Change Action Plan
San Rafael’s original Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) was adopted by the City Council in
2009. In 2011, the City incorporated the CCAP measures into General Plan 2020 as a
Sustainability Element. A GHG Emissions Reduction Strategy was also prepared to provide
technical support to the Sustainability Element, CCAP was adopted. In 2017, then
Councilmember Kate Colin and the City Manager’s Office convened a 20-member community
working group to update the CCAP to meet the new interim 2030 State greenhouse gas reduction
targets referenced above. Over 350 San Rafael residents and business representatives gave
input, which resulted in San Rafael’s Climate Change Action Plan 2030 adopted by the City
Council on May 19, 2019.
In September 2021, the City Council adopted a Climate Emergency Declaration and set a new
long-term greenhouse gas reduction target for San Rafael, committing the City to carbon neutrality
by 2045.
San Rafael’s CCAP was developed specifically to include strategies to address the three pillars
of sustainable development: environment, equity, and economy. As such, it supports three of the
City’s four Policy Focus Areas: 1) Sustainability, Climate Change, and Disaster Preparedness, 2)
Economic Growth, and 3) Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. The City’s Climate Change
Action Plan has also been integrated into General Plan 2040 and serves as the City’s Greenhouse
Gas Reduction Strategy. This Strategy meets the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 3
for a “qualified” greenhouse gas reduction strategy. It commits the City to track implementation
measures and emissions reductions while providing a useful streamlining tool for reviewing
development and building projects.
Councilmember Llorens Gulati is the current Sustainability Liaison to the City Council. As the
Council Liaison, Councilmember Llorens Gulati meets regularly with staff and the executive
leadership of Sustainable San Rafael to plan and host quarterly public CCAP implementation
forums. The Liaison’s role is important in helping staff prioritize requests from the public and in
shaping projects and programs for City Council action.
Greenhouse Gas Inventory
The City measures progress toward GHG reduction goals through the completion of an annual
community greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory report. These reports provide the City Council with
an overview of community-wide emissions as well as the status of City actions accomplished in
that same year. GHG emissions and reductions are calculated for various sectors, including
energy, transportation, waste, and water. This is done using a common protocol local
governments use to show in boundary, activity-based emissions, which primarily focus on the
emissions created most directly within the geographical boundary of the City. Emissions data is
typically not available for a year and a half; thus, inventories have a lag time. The last community
inventory was conducted in 2023 for the 2021 calendar year.
In addition, approximately every five years, the City conducts a municipal inventory, which
provides a deep analysis of the emissions from municipal operations and facilities. The last
municipal inventory was conducted in 2018 for the calendar year 2016. This year, the City
conducted a municipal inventory that covered the calendar year 2022. The City opted to delay the
municipal inventory to calendar year 2022 to avoid significant anomalies that occurred due to the
COVID-19 pandemic and ensure a better comparison to 2016. It is important to note that the
majority of GHG emissions come from the community: residents, businesses, and visitors. Local
government emissions make up only approximately 1% of community-wide emissions.
The City partners with the Marin Climate and Energy Partnership (MCEP) for conducting the
inventories and developing the reports. MCEP publishes all the results on the MCEP website,
MarinClimate.org, and at MarinTracker.org so that community members can easily access the
data using an interactive map.
Two-Year Priorities
Every two years, City staff identifies key priorities taken from the Climate Change Action Plan on
which to focus limited resources. These are reviewed with the City Council Sustainability Liaison
and at the Climate Change Action Plan quarterly community forum for review before completing
into a work plan. These priorities and work plan align with the subset of objectives represented in
the Sustainability, Climate Change and Disaster Preparedness Policy Focus Area in the City
Council’s adopted fiscal year 2023-24 & 2024-25 Goals and Objectives. Staff brought the most
recent Two-Year Priority Workplan to Council in September 2023.
ANALYSIS:
Community Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report
The 2022 Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Report (Attachment 1) provides the
City Council with an overview of community-wide emissions. The report provides a broad category
of best-estimate community-wide emissions data for the calendar year 2022 based on publicly
available data. This data shows an overall reduction of approximately 34% of community-wide
emissions since 2005 and 22% below 1990 levels. Table 1 below shows where the reductions
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 4
came from.
Table 1: Change in Emissions by Sector, Community
SECTOR % CHANGE
SINCE 2005
Transportation -22%
Built Environment - Electricity -85%
Built Environment – Natural Gas -14%
Waste -47%
Water -100%
Off-Road -29%
Wastewater +12%
TOTAL -34%
Some of the City programs and activities conducted in 2022 geared toward reducing community
emissions included:
• Adopting Green Building reach codes for new buildings
• Adopting ordinances to require composting and limit the use of gas leaf blowers
• Completing the Canal Community-Based Transportation Plan
• Promoting electric vehicles at various events
The City also supported many programs such as Resilient Neighborhoods, California Youth
Environmental Services’ Green House Calls, the Chamber Green Business Committee, two
electric vehicle working groups, and Marin School of Environmental Leadership, among others.
The City has made significant progress towards the implementation of its CCAP and has a strong
commitment to continuing to implement policies and programs. San Rafael met its interim goal of
a 25% reduction in communitywide GHG emissions from the 2005 baseline by 2020. However,
State targets set by SB 32 and the CCAP referenced above establish a new baseline of 1990
rather than 2005 for 2030 GHG reduction targets. Translating current reductions to a 1990
baseline means San Rafael has reduced emissions by 22% since 1990. To meet the City’s 40%
reduction target by 2030 and net-zero target by 2045, San Rafael will need to redouble efforts
and continue to innovate, collaborate, and be at the forefront of local GHG reduction strategies.
Finally, regarding GHG inventories, the value of an in-boundary, activity-based type of inventory
is that it isolates emissions from local sources, providing a snapshot of sectors and activities that
can be affected to some degree by local government actions and can most reliably be quantified
and tracked on an annual basis. In addition, it allows for a rough aggregation of data to allow for
county-wide, regional, state, and larger groupings of emissions calculations. This can be helpful
in understanding California-wide emissions or comparing them to those of the U.S. at large. One
thing it does not do, however, is get at the larger set of emissions driven by consumption.
Consumption includes all the “upstream” emissions from the things individuals buy, including the
mining, manufacturing, packaging, and transportation of products, which carry a lot of embedded
GHG emissions. A consumption-based inventory would show a very different picture of San
Rafael’s GHG emissions. It could easily triple emissions per capita due to the number of materials
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 5
and products we consume, mainly from imported food and goods. In San Rafael, we have chosen
to include consumption messaging – our “carbon footprint” – in our engagement rather than just
rely on an in boundary inventory. This is a primary focus of the Resilient Neighborhoods program,
which works county-wide to educate residents about this and help them reduce their household
carbon footprint.
Municipal Greenhouse Gas Inventory Report
Municipal operations, facilities, and vehicles, including employee commutes, make up roughly 1%
of San Rafael’s overall community greenhouse gas emissions. Nevertheless, municipal emissions
are important to track and reduce to show leadership and demonstrate the importance of every
entity needing to do their part. The City’s municipal emissions are done much less often than the
community emissions inventory and require much more detail to complete, including collecting
data on fuel use for all vehicles, equipment, pump stations, and buildings. It also requires a review
of all the City’s electricity accounts, which number in the hundreds due to all the streetlights, traffic
lights, electricity in parking garages and lots, irrigation controllers, and many other electricity-using
facilities throughout San Rafael, including electric vehicle chargers.
The Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Report for 2022
(Attachment 2) shows a 40% reduction since 2005, which is equal to a 29% reduction in municipal
emissions since 1990. Table 2 below shows where these reductions came from. This represents
a multitude of actions the City has taken over the years, including switching to Renewable Diesel
in the diesel fleet, conducting numerous energy efficiency projects in facilities, replacing the
majority of our streetlights and other public lighting with LED bulbs, and moving all electricity
accounts to MCE’s Deep Green 100% renewable and GHG-free electricity.
Table 2: Change in Emissions by Sector, Municipal
SECTOR % CHANGE
SINCE 2005
Buildings & Facilities -48%
Vehicle Fleet -29%
Public Lighting -100%
Water Delivery -100%
Waste -17%
Employee Commute -26%
TOTAL -40%
Some of the City programs and activities conducted in 2022 geared toward reducing municipal
emissions included:
• Transitioning all diesel vehicles in the fleet, including fire trucks, to Renewable Diesel
• Procuring electric parking buggies, a utility vehicle, and a Fire Administration vehicle
• Partnering with the Transportation Authority of Marin to provide new commuter benefits to
City employees
• Hosting Climate Fellows to develop resources and training to reduce waste in City
operations and facilities
• Re-convening the Employee Green Team to develop internal policies for conservation
• Piloting a draft surplus equipment procedure for no longer needed equipment and furniture
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 6
Fiscal Year 2021-2023 Two-Year Workplan Update
Every two years, the staff proposes work plan priorities from the CCAP to be efficient with City
resources and stay focused on key initiatives. These priorities were developed with and based on
input from community partners such as the County of Marin Sustainability Team, Sustainable San
Rafael, members of our quarterly CCAP community forums, the Marin Climate and Energy
Partnership, our utility partners, and others. This allows for county-wide collaboration and
resource sharing as well as alignment with other City and public priorities and work plans. In
addition, whenever possible, staff seeks opportunities to develop model work products that other
cities or organizations can use as well to extend their impact beyond San Rafael.
Attachment 3 is a snapshot of the accomplishments and progress in the first year of the Workplan.
Some of the items worth noting include:
• Completion of an Electric Vehicle Acceleration Strategy and work plan, which is being
implemented
• Adoption of a Green Building Reach Code for existing buildings
• Completion of an Equitable Low Carbon Economy Plan Report with recommendations and
work plan
• Execution of contracts with UC Berkeley and a consultant team to complete a sea level
rise feasibility study in East San Rafael.
• Execution of an agreement with Zero Waste Marin to conduct outreach, enforcement, and
procurement responsibilities on behalf of the City for SB 1383 implementation
Other activities completed in this past year include:
• Development of an “8 Step Guide to Electrification” for homeowners, now included in the
Marin Builder’s Association Home Guide
• Development of staff resources and training to comply with SB 1383
• Completion of a Surplus Equipment Policy
• Adoption of a Reusable Foodware Ordinance
• Completion of several technical studies for sea level rise planning
• Completion of several engagements for the sea level rise feasibility study
• Replacement of seven gas hot water heaters with electric heat pump hot water heaters
• Acceptance of a $297,000 grant for a Climate Justice and Engagement Coordinator
COMMUNITY OUTREACH:
Staff regularly gives presentations with opportunities for feedback to the following organizations:
the CCAP quarterly implementation forums, and the San Rafael Chamber of Commerce Green
Business Committee, school groups, and the Marin Climate and Energy Partnership, among
others. Information regularly goes out to the public through the City’s Sustainability email
newsletter, the City Manager’s Snapshot, and through City social media channels.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no direct fiscal impact to accepting the reports. Funding for implementation of programs
is generally supported through existing budget resources as well as grants and utility-sponsored
programs. Where required, supplemental funding requests for supplemental General Fund
support will be contingent on separate City Council action through the budget process.
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS:
SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT / Page: 7
Accept the Greenhouse Gas Inventory Reports for 2022 and the Fiscal Year 2023-2025 Two-
Year Workplan Priorities Update.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Community Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Report for 2022
2. Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Report for 2022
3. 2023-2025 Two-Year Sustainability Priority Workplan Update
CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
COMMUNITY GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
INVENTORY FOR THE YEAR 2022
August 2024
Prepared by the
Marin Climate & Energy Partnership
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1
I NTRODUCTION 2
P URPOSE OF INVENTORY 2
GENERAL M ETHODOLOGY 2
COMMUNITY I NVENTORY 4
C OMMUNITY I NVENTORY S UMMARY 4
P ER C APITA E MISSIONS 6
SIGNIFICANT SOURCES OF E MISSIONS 7
B UILT E NVIRONMENT - E LECTRICITY 7
B ULT E NVIRONMENT - NATURAL G AS 8
T RANSPORTATION 8
W ASTE D ISPOSAL 9
W ATER U SE 10
W ASTEWATER 11
A PPENDIX A-1
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
San Rafael publishes annual community greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions
estimates through the Marin Climate & Energy Partnership (MCEP). Annual
inventories help the City to more closely monitor its progress in meeting its
goal to reduce community emissions at least 40% below 1990 emissions by
2030. The City also publishes GHG emissions inventories for municipal
operations approximately every five years. Municipal emissions accounted
for less than 1% of community emissions when the municipal inventory was
last conducted for year 2016.
This report reviews emissions generated from the community from 2005 through 2022, the most recent year data
is available. The inventory shows that emissions dropped from about 475,000 metric tons carbon dioxide equivalents
(MTCO2e) in 2005 to 315,111 MTCO2e in 2022, which is equivalent to 34% below the 2005 baseline and 22% below
1990 levels. The community emissions trend and targets are shown below. San Rafael needs to reduce emissions
another 76,630 MTCO2e to meet the local and State target for 2030. San Rafael adopted a Climate Emergency
Resolution in 2021 that establishes a goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045 or earlier, similar to the State’s
long-term goal. This is expected to be accomplished by reducing GHG emissions approximately 85% below 1990
levels and employing sequestration and/or carbon capture strategies to offset the remaining emissions. San Rafael
needs to reduce GHG emissions another 258,3000 MTCO2e to meet the GHG mitigation target for 2045, as shown in
Figure 1.
FIGURE 1: SAN R AFAEL GHG E MISSIONS AND R EDUCTION T ARGETS
Recognizing the need for a collaborative approach to greenhouse gas reductions, City and county leaders launched
the Marin Climate and Energy Partnership (MCEP) in 2007. The City of San Rafael is a member of MCEP and works
with representatives from the County of Marin and the other Marin cities and towns to address and streamline the
implementation of a variety of greenhouse gas reduction measures. Funding for this inventory was provided by the
Marin County Energy Watch Partnership, which administers public goods charges collected by PG&E. Community
inventories are available on the MCEP website at marinclimate.org and are used to update the Marin Sustainability
Tracker.
0
100,000
200,000
300,000
400,000
500,000
MT
C
O
2e
T HE T AKEAWAY :
C OMMUNITY E MISSIONS ARE
D OWN 34% SINCE 2005 AND
22% SINCE 1990
2030 Goal
2045
Mitigation
Goal
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 2
INTRODUCTION
PURPOSE OF INVENTORY
The objective of this greenhouse gas emissions inventory is to identify the sources and quantify the amounts of
greenhouse gas emissions generated by the activities of the San Rafael community in 2022. This inventory provides
a comparison to 2005 and estimated 1990 emissions and identifies the sectors where significant reductions in
greenhouse gas emissions have occurred. In some instances, previous year emissions were updated with new data
and/or recalculated to ensure the same methodology was employed for all inventory years.
GENERAL METHODOLOGY
This inventory uses the national standard for the accounting and reporting of community-wide greenhouse gas
emissions, the U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Reporting of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, version 1.2
(July 2019). Quantification methodologies, emission factors, and activity and source data are detailed in the
appendix.
Community emissions are categorized according to seven sectors:
Built Environment - Electricity
Built Environment – Natural Gas
Transportation
Off-Road Vehicles and Equipment
Waste
Water
Wastewater
C ALCULATING E MISSIONS
Emissions are quantified by multiplying the measurable activity data – e.g., kilowatt hours of electricity, therms of
natural gas, gallons of diesel or gasoline, etc. – by emissions factors specific to the greenhouse gas-generating source.
Most emissions factors are the same from year to year. Emission factors for electricity, however, change from year
to year due to the specific sources that are used to produce electricity. For example, electricity that is produced from
coal generates more greenhouse gases than electricity that is generated from natural gas and therefore has a higher
emissions factor. Electricity that is produced solely from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind has an
emissions factor of zero.
This inventory calculates individual greenhouse gases – i.e., carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide – and
converts each greenhouse gas emission to a standard metric, known as “carbon dioxide equivalents” or CO 2e, to
provide an apple-to-apples comparison among the various emissions. Table 1 shows the greenhouse gases identified
in this inventory and their global warming potential (GWP), a measure of the amount of warming each gas causes
when compared to a similar amount of carbon dioxide over 100 years. Methane, for example, is 28 times as potent
as carbon dioxide over 100 years; therefore, one metric ton of methane is equivalent to 28 metric tons of carbon
dioxide. Greenhouse gas emissions are reported in this inventory as metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents, or
MTCO2e.
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 3
T ABLE 1: GREENHOUSE GASES
Gas Chemical
Formula Emission Source Global Warming
Potential
Carbon Dioxide CO2
Combustion of natural gas, gasoline,
diesel, and other fuels 1
Methane CH4
Combustion, anaerobic decomposition
of organic waste in landfills and
wastewater
28
Nitrous Oxide N2O Combustion, wastewater treatment 265
Source: IPCC Fifth Assessment Report (2014), 100-year values
T YPES OF E MISSIONS
Emissions from each of the greenhouse gases can come in a number of forms:
Stationary or mobile combustion resulting from the on-site combustion of fuels (natural gas, diesel,
gasoline, etc.) to generate heat or electricity, or to power vehicles and equipment.
Purchased electricity resulting from the generation of power from utilities outside the jurisdictional
boundary.
Fugitive emissions resulting from the unintentional release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, such
as methane from waste decomposition.
Process emissions from physical or chemical processing of a material, such as wastewater treatment.
U NDERSTANDING T OTALS
The totals listed in the tables and discussed in the report are a summation of emissions using available estimation
methods. Each inventoried sector may have additional emissions sources associated with them that were
unaccounted for due to a lack of data or robust quantification methods. For example, greenhouse gas emissions
associated with air travel and the production of goods outside the community’s boundary are not included in the
inventory. Additionally, the community inventory does not include refrigerants released into the atmosphere from
the use of air conditioning in cars and buildings.
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 4
COMMUNITY INVENTORY
COMMUNITY INVENTORY SUMMARY
In 2005, the activities taking place by the San Rafael community resulted in approximately 475,000 metric tons of
CO2e.1 In 2022, those activities resulted in approximately 315,111 metric tons of CO2e, a reduction of 34% from 2005
levels, which is equivalent to 22% below 1990 levels.
The community inventory tracks emissions in seven sectors:
The Built Environment – Electricity sector represents emissions generated from the use of electricity in San
Rafael homes and commercial, industrial, and governmental buildings and facilities.
The Built Environment – Natural Gas sector represents emissions generated from the use of natural gas in
San Rafael homes and commercial, industrial, and governmental buildings and facilities. Propane used as a
primary heating source is also included, although it represents less than 1% of emissions in this sector.
The Transportation sector includes tailpipe emissions from passenger vehicle trips originating and ending
in San Rafael, as well as a share of tailpipe emissions generated by medium and heavy-duty vehicles
travelling on Marin County roads. The sector also includes emissions from Marin Transit and Golden Gate
Transit buses and the SMART train as these vehicles travel within San Rafael’s boundaries. Electricity used
to power electric vehicles is embedded in electricity consumption reported in the Built Environment -
Electricity sector.
The Waste sector represents fugitive methane emissions that are generated over time as organic material
decomposes in the landfill. Although most methane is captured or flared off at the landfill, approximately
25% escapes into the atmosphere.
The Off-Road sector represents emissions from the combustion of gasoline and diesel fuel from the
operation of off-road vehicles and equipment used for construction and landscape maintenance.
The Water sector represents emissions from energy used to pump, treat, and convey potable water from
the water source to the San Rafael water users.
The Wastewater sector represents stationary, process and fugitive greenhouse gases that are created
during the treatment of wastewater generated by the community. Emissions created from energy used to
convey and treat wastewater are included in the Built Environment sectors.
Table 2 shows how emissions in each sector have changed since 2005. The greatest reductions have occurred in the
Built Environment – Electricity sector (75,853 MTCO2e), followed by the Transportation sector (58,607 MTCO2e) and
the Built Environment – Natural Gas sector (12,632 MTCO 2e). The likely reasons for the largest emissions decreases
are described in the remainder of this report.
1 Baseline and historical emissions are recalculated in the annual inventory to integrate new data and improved
calculation methodologies and to ensure consistent comparison across each year. For this reason, emission levels
may differ from levels reported in previous inventories.
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 5
T ABLE 2: E MISSIONS SUMMARY BY SECTOR (MTCO 2 E ), 2005 THROUGH 2022
Year
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%
Change
from
2005
%
Change
from
19902
1990 (est.)1 403,713
2005 88,767 92,247 266,928 19,075 2,371 484 5,085 474,956 0%
2006 83,610 95,425 266,209 18,913 2,074 485 5,008 471,723 -1%
2007 111,739 92,455 264,388 17,101 2,804 488 4,895 493,868 4%
2008 112,024 93,985 265,598 14,205 2,579 490 4,611 493,491 4%
2009 101,128 92,767 259,960 12,223 2,593 492 4,235 473,398 0%
2010 76,081 93,296 248,651 12,006 1,486 496 3,895 435,911 -8%
2011 71,056 96,073 244,487 11,718 1,053 498 3,784 428,670 -10%
2012 72,706 90,344 241,741 12,149 1,136 503 3,707 422,286 -11%
2013 68,716 89,797 236,978 12,303 1,323 506 3,666 413,289 -13%
2014 61,976 76,304 231,401 12,437 1,189 517 3,645 387,469 -18%
2015 61,260 77,920 226,110 12,887 933 491 3,609 383,209 -19%
2016 49,936 81,715 222,389 15,147 692 551 3,554 373,984 -21%
2017 26,412 85,650 220,291 15,852 202 541 3,491 352,440 -26%
2018 25,961 85,625 218,402 14,054 0 539 3,396 347,977 -27%
2019 25,813 86,037 217,805 13,397 0 538 3,295 346,884 -27% -13%
2020 18,412 79,679 214,924 12,732 0 553 3,244 329,543 -31% -17%
2021 14,955 80,158 209,252 10,514 0 550 3,429 318,857 -33% -21%
2022 12,913 79,615 208,320 10,103 0 543 3,616 315,111 -34% -22%
Change
from 2005 -75,853 -12,632 -58,607 -8,972 -2,371 58 -1,469 -159,846
% Change
from 2005 -85% -14% -22% -47% -100% 12% -29% -34%
1 Per California Air Resources Board guidance, 1990 levels are estimated at 15% below 2005 levels.
2 In 2019, San Rafael adopted a Climate Action Plan that established a goal to reduce emissions 40% below 1990 levels by 2030.
This column will track that progress over time.
Figure 2 shows the relative contribution of emissions from these sectors in 2022. Transportation emissions represent
the largest share of communitywide emissions (66%), while the use of natural gas and propane in the Built
Environment accounts for one-quarter of emissions.
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 6
FIGURE 2: E MISSIONS BY S ECTOR , 2022
P ER C APITA E MISSIONS
Per capita emissions can be a useful metric for measuring progress in reducing greenhouse gases and for comparing
one community’s emissions with neighboring cities and against regional and national averages. That said, due to
differences in emission inventory methods, it can be difficult to produce directly comparable per capita emissions
numbers. Per capita emission rates may be compared among Marin jurisdictions, although some jurisdictions may
have higher rates due to the presence of commercial and industrial uses.
Dividing the total communitywide GHG emissions by residents yields a result of 8.4 metric tons CO 2e per capita in
2005. Per capita emissions decreased 38% between 2005 and 2022, falling to 5.2 metric tons per person. Figure 3
shows the trend in per capita emissions over time. It is important to understand that this number is not the same as
the carbon footprint of the average individual living in San Rafael, which would include lifecycle emissions, emissions
resulting from air travel, etc.
F IGURE 3: E MISSIONS P ER C APITA
Built Environment -
Electricity
6%Built Environment -
Natural Gas
25%
Waste
3%
Wastewater
<1%
Off-Road
1%Water
<1%
Transportation
66%
8.4 8.4 8.7 8.7 8.3
7.6 7.4 7.2 7.0 6.5 6.4 6.2 5.9 5.8 5.8 5.4 5.2 5.2
0.0
1.0
2.0
3.0
4.0
5.0
6.0
7.0
8.0
9.0
10.0
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
MT
C
O
2
e
P
e
r
P
e
r
s
o
n
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 7
SIGNIFICANT SOURCES OF EMISSIONS
The following sections provide a year-by-year analysis of the changes in source GHG emissions in the Built
Environment, Transportation, Waste, and Water sectors. Whenever possible, each section discusses the change in
emissions from previous years and the likely influence of state and local programs or policies and external factors
on reducing emissions.
B UILT E NVIRONMENT - E LECTRICITY
Purchased electricity consumption in homes and businesses in San Rafael decreased about 21% between 2005 and
2022. Greenhouse gas emissions from this electricity use decreased 85% since 2005, as shown in Figure 4. This is
primarily due to the lower carbon intensity of electricity. PG&E has been steadily increasing the amount of renewable
energy in its electricity mix. In 2022, PG&E electricity came from a mix of renewable (38%), large hydroelectric (8%),
nuclear (49%), and natural gas (5%) energy sources and was 95% GHG-free.2 MCE Light Green electricity came
primarily from renewable (60%) and hydroelectric (40%) sources and was 95% GHG-free.3 In 2022, about 12.6% of
MCE electricity purchased by San Rafael customers was 100% renewable Deep Green electricity, including electricity
purchased by the City for facilities and operations. San Rafael’s Climate Action Plan target is to reduce electricity
emissions 93% below the 2005 level by 2030.
FIGURE 4: ELECTRICITY USE AND EMISSIONS
B UILT E NVIRONMENT - N ATURAL G AS
Natural gas is used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings to provide space and water heating and power
appliances. Use of natural gas is highly variable depending on the weather conditions. This variability has led natural
gas use consumption in San Rafael to fluctuate from year to year, from a high of 18 million therms in 2011 to a low
2 PG&E 2022 Power Content Label, https://www.pge.com/content/dam/pge/docs/account/billing-and-
assistance/power-content-label.pdf. Nuclear and large hydro sources are considered GHG-free.
3 MCE 2022 Power Content Label, https://www.mcecleanenergy.org/energy-suppliers/
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
120,000
0
50,000,000
100,000,000
150,000,000
200,000,000
250,000,000
300,000,000
350,000,000
400,000,000
MT
C
O
2e
kW
h
s
Electricity Electricity Emissions
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 8
of 14.2 million therms in 2014. Reduction in energy use may also be attributed to energy efficiency programs and
rebates, local green building ordinances, and State building codes.
Natural gas consumption decreased 1% between 2021 and 2022 and was 14% below the 2005 level. Unlike electricity
emissions which reflect the power content mix, natural gas emissions track the amount of natural gas consumed
(Figure 5). The Climate Action Plan target is to reduce natural gas consumption and emissions 28% below the 2005
level by 2030.
FIGURE 5: NATURAL GAS USE AND EMISSIONS
T RANSPORTATION
Transportation activities accounted for approximately 66% of San Rafael’s emissions in 2022. According to the
transportation model and annual data the City uses to calculate passenger and commercial vehicle miles, vehicle
miles traveled (VMT) have decreased less than 1% since 2005.
On-road transportation emissions have decreased 22% since 2005 due to more fuel-efficient and alternatively fueled
cars (Figure 6). As shown in Figure 7, most transportation emissions come from passenger vehicles, which accounted
for 72% of transportation emissions in 2021. Marin County continues to be a leader in zero emission vehicles (ZEVs)
– second only to Santa Clara County – with 15,449 ZEVs in Marin at the end of 2022, or about 7.5% of registered
automobiles. ZEVs include battery electric cars, plug-in hybrid electric cars, hydrogen fuel cell cars, and zero-emission
motorcycles. San Rafael had 3,438 ZEVs by the end of 2022, or 5.8% of registered light-duty vehicles. San Rafael’s
Climate Action Plan targets 25% of passenger vehicles registered in Marin and traveling in San Rafael to be ZEVs by
2030 and a 46% reduction in transportation emissions.
While it is difficult to pinpoint exactly how each land use and transportation policy affects emissions, the City has
undertaken many efforts to reduce transportation emissions. The City encourages workforce housing and has made
improvements to the transportation network to make it easier for residents to bicycle, walk, and take public
transportation. The City has also promoted electric vehicle adoption by installing chargers and providing free
electricity at select municipal EV charging stations.
0
20,000
40,000
60,000
80,000
100,000
0
2,000,000
4,000,000
6,000,000
8,000,000
10,000,000
12,000,000
14,000,000
16,000,000
18,000,000
20,000,000
MT
C
O
2e
Th
e
r
m
s
Natural Gas Natural Gas Emissions
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 9
FIGURE 6: ON-ROAD TRANSPORTATION VEHICLE MILES TRAVELED AND EMISSIONS
FIGURE 7: TRANSPORTATION EMISSIONS BY VEHICLE CATEGORY, 2022
Note: Public transportation includes emissions from Marin Transit and Golden Gate Transit fixed-route buses and the SMART train.
W ASTE D ISPOSAL
Waste generated by the community decreased 4% between 2021 and 2022 and was 22% below the 2005 level by
2022 as shown in Figure 8 (based on countywide disposal data). Total landfilled waste includes alternative daily
cover.4 Emissions from waste disposal decreased 47% due to the lower organic content of landfilled waste and
material used for alternative daily cover (Figure 8). The City’s Climate Action Plan targets a 74% reduction in waste
emissions by 2030.
4 Alternative daily cover is material other than earthen material placed on the surface of the active face of a municipal solid waste
landfill at the end of each operating day to control vectors, fires, odors, blowing litter, and scavenging.
0
50,000
100,000
150,000
200,000
250,000
300,000
0
100,000,000
200,000,000
300,000,000
400,000,000
500,000,000
MT
C
O
2e
VM
T
VMT On-Road Emissions
Passenger Vehicles
72%
Commercial Vehicles
27%
Public Transportation
1%
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 10
FIGURE 8: DISPOSED WASTE
W ATER U SE
Per capita water use declined 30% since 2005, as shown in Figure 9, based on Marin Municipal Water District (Marin
Water) district-wide data. Emissions, which are based on an estimate of energy used to pump, treat, and convey
water from the water source to the City limits, dropped 100% between 2005 and 2022 due to the water agencies’
use of carbon-free electricity. Marin Water purchases MCE Deep Green for its electricity needs, and the Sonoma
County Water Agency, which supplies approximately 25% of Marin Water’s water, uses renewable and carbon-free
sources for its electricity. Total water consumption decreased 25% since 2005; The City’s Climate Action Plan targets
a 26% reduction in water consumption by 2030.
FIGURE 9: PER CAPITA WATER USE
0
5,000
10,000
15,000
20,000
0
10,000
20,000
30,000
40,000
50,000
60,000
70,000
80,000
200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
MT
C
O
2e
To
n
s
Waste Waste Emissions
142 144 145 146
132 126 124 130 139
117 112
101 106 110 107 116
101 100
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Ga
l
l
o
n
s
P
e
r
C
a
p
i
t
a
P
e
r
D
a
y
Source: Marin Water
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 11
FIGURE 10: WATER USE AND EMISSIONS
Marin Water provides rebates and programs to reduce water use. Rebates are available to replace fixtures with high-
efficiency clothes washers and to purchase cisterns and rain barrels. Marin Water provides free home and landscape
water-use evaluations as well as free high-efficiency showerheads and faucet aerators. The City of San Rafael actively
promotes water conservation and Marin Water rebates and programs to residents and businesses.
W ASTEWATER
Greenhouse gas emissions are created during the treatment of wastewater generated by the community. These
emissions have increased 12% since 2005 as San Rafael’s population has increased.
Emissions created from energy used to convey and treat wastewater are included in the Built Environment sectors.
The Central Marin Sanitation Agency (CMSA), located in San Rafael, has two anaerobic digesters that process primary
sludge, thickened waste-activated sludge, and organic waste to produce biogas. The biogas is used to generate heat
and renewable electricity via the cogeneration system. CMSA normally produces 100% of the facility’s power needs,
and, at times, exports renewable energy to the grid, which is procured by MCE.
In 2023, the Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District completed a Secondary Treatment Plant that expanded the
treatment plant’s capacity and the recycled water facility’s capacity from 1.4 million to over 5 million gallons per
day.
0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
3,500
200520062007200820092010201120122013201420152016201720182019202020212022
MT
C
O
2e
Mi
l
l
i
o
n
G
a
l
l
o
n
s
Water Use Emissions
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-1
APPENDIX: COMMUNITY INVENTORY
Community GHG Emissions Summary Table
Jurisdiction: City of San Rafael Inventory Year: 2022
Population: 60,237 (CA Department of Finance) Date Prepared: February 9, 2024
Number of Households: 23,494 (CA Department of Finance) Reporting Framework: Communitywide Activities
ID
Emissions Type
Source
or
Activity
Included,
Required
Activities
Included,
Optional
Activities
Excluded
(IE, NA,
NO or NE) Notes
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
1.0 Built Environment
1.1 Use of fuel in residential and commercial stationary
combustion equipment Both ● 79,615
1.2 Industrial stationary sources Source NE
1.3 Power generation in the community Source NO
1.4 Use of electricity in the community Activity ● Includes transmission and distribution
losses 12,913
1.5 District heating/cooling facilities in the community Source NE
1.6 Use of district heating/cooling facilities in the community Activity NE
1.7 Industrial process emissions in the community Source NO
1.8 Refrigerant leakage in the community Source NE
2.0 Transportation and Other Mobile Sources
2.1 On-road passenger vehicles operating within the community
boundary Source IE Obtained data for preferred activity-
based method instead
2.2 On-road passenger vehicles associated with community land
uses Activity ● 150,195
2.3 On-road freight and service vehicles operating within the
community boundary Source IE Obtained data for preferred activity-
based method instead
2.4 On-road freight and service vehicles associated with
community land uses Activity ● 56,568
2.5 On-road transit vehicles associated with community land uses Activity ● 1,281
2.6 Transit rail vehicles operating with the community boundary Source ● 276
2.7 Use of transit rail travel by the community Activity NE
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-2
2.8 Inter-city passenger rail vehicles operating within the
community boundary Source NO
2.9 Freight rail vehicles operating within the community
boundary Source NO
2.10 Marine vessels operating within the community boundary Source NE
2.11 Use of ferries by the community Activity NE
2.12 Off-road surface vehicles and other mobile equipment
operating within the community boundary Source ● 3,616
2.13 Use of air travel by the community Activity NE
3.0 Solid Waste
3.1 Operation of solid waste disposal facilities in the community Source NE
3.2 Generation and disposal of solid waste by the community Activity ● Includes alternative daily cover 10,103
4.0 Water and Wastewater
4.1 Operation of water delivery facilities in the community Source IE Energy use is included in 1.1 and 1.4
4.2 Use of energy associated with use of potable water by the
community Activity ● 0
4.3 Use of energy associated with generation of wastewater by
the community Activity ● Energy use is included in 1.1 and 1.4
4.4 Process emissions from operation of wastewater treatment
facilities located in the community Source NE
Wastewater treatment facilities are
located in the community but only
process emissions associated with
generation of wastewater by the
community are reported in 4.5
4.5 Process emissions associated with generation of wastewater
by the community Activity ● 543
4.6 Use of septic systems in the community Source NE
5.0 Agriculture
5.1 Domesticated animal production Source NE
5.2 Manure decomposition and treatment Source NE
6.0 Upstream Impacts of Communitywide Activities
6.1 Upstream impacts of fuels used in stationary applications by
the community Activity NE
6.2 Upstream and transmission and distribution (T&D) impacts of
purchased electricity used by the community Activity IE Transmission and distribution losses
included in 1.4
6.3
Upstream impacts of fuels used by water and wastewater
facilities for water used and wastewater generated within the
community boundary
Activity IE
6.4 Upstream impacts of select materials (concrete, food, paper,
carpets, etc.) sued by the whole community. Activity NE
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-3
Legend
IE – Included Elsewhere: Emissions for this activity are estimated and presented in another category of the inventory. The category where these emissions are included should be
noted in the explanation.
NE – Not Estimated: Emissions occur but have not been estimate or reported (e.g., data unavailable, effort required not justifiable).
NA – Not Applicable: The activity occurs but does not cause emissions; explanation should be provided.
NO – Not Occurring: The source or activity does not occur or exist within the community.
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-4
Community Emissions Data Sources and Calculation Methodologies
Sector/ID Emissions Source Source and/or Activity Data Emission Factor and Methodology
1.0 Built Environment
1.1
Stationary
Combustion
Stationary Combustion
(CO2, CH4 & N2O)
Known fuel use (meter readings by PG&E) and estimated fuel
use (American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, and U.S.
Energy Information Administration Household Site Fuel
Consumption data).
Default CO2, CH4 & N2O emission factors by fuel type (U.S.
Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix C, Tables B.1 and B.3). U.S.
Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix C, Method BE.1.1 and
BE.1.2.
1.4
Electricity Use
Electricity Use (CO2, CH4
& N2O)
Known electricity use (meter readings by PG&E and MCE) and
estimated direct access electricity consumption.
Verified utility-specific emission factors (PG&E and MCE) and
eGrid subregion default emission factors. U.S. Community
Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix C, Method BE.2.1.
Electric Power
Transmission and
Distribution Losses
(CO2, CH4 & N2O)
Estimated electricity grid loss for Western region from eGrid. U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix C, Method BE.4.1.
2.0 Transportation and Other Mobile Sources
2.2
On-Road
Passenger
Vehicle
Operation
On-Road Mobile
Combustion (CO2)
Estimated passenger vehicle miles traveled associated with
origin and destination land uses (Metropolitan Transportation
Commission, CAPVMT Data Portal 2.0 (mtcanalytics.org)).
CO2 for on-road passenger vehicles quantified in the EMFAC2021
v.1.0.2 model. Passenger vehicle emissions calculated according
to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix D, Method TR.1.A.
On-Road Mobile
Combustion
(CH4 & N2O)
Estimated vehicle miles traveled associated with origin and
destination land uses (Metropolitan Transportation
Commission, CAPVMT Data Portal 2.0 (mtcanalytics.org).
CH4 and N2O for on-road passenger vehicles quantified in the
EMFAC2021 v.1.0.2 model. Passenger vehicle emissions
calculated according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix
D, Method TR.1.A.
2.4
On-Road
Freight and
Service Truck
Freight
Operation
On-Road Mobile
Combustion (CO2)
Estimated commercial vehicle miles traveled within the
boundary (Metropolitan Transportation Commission utilizing
Plan Bay Area 2050).
CO2 for on-road commercial vehicles quantified in the
EMFAC2021 v.1.0.2 model. Emissions allocated utilizing LEHD
data according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix D,
Method TR.2.A.
On-Road Mobile
Combustion
(CH4 & N2O)
Estimated commercial vehicle miles traveled within the
boundary (Metropolitan Transportation Commission utilizing
Plan Bay Area 2050).
CH4 and N2O for on-road commercial vehicles quantified in the
EMFAC2021 v.1.0.2 model. Emissions allocated utilizing LEHD
data according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix D,
Method TR.2.A.
2.5
On-Road
Transit
Operation
On-Road Mobile
Combustion (CO2)
Estimated vehicle miles traveled within the boundary (Marin
Transit and Golden Gate Transit) and estimated diesel fuel
efficiency for transit fleet (Golden Gate Transit). Fuel type
provided by Marin Transit and Golden Gate Transit.
Renewable diesel emission factor provided by NEXGEN. U.S.
Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix D, Method TR.4.A.
On-Road Mobile
Combustion
(CH4 & N2O)
Estimated vehicle miles traveled within the boundary (Marin
Transit and Golden Gate Transit) and estimated diesel fuel
efficiency for transit fleet (Golden Gate Transit). Fuel type
provided by Marin Transit and Golden Gate Transit.
Renewable diesel emission factor provided by NEXGEN. U.S.
Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix D, Method TR.4.B.
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-5
2.6
Passenger Rail
Mobile Combustion
(CO2, CH4 & N2O)
Estimated train-miles by multiplying the number of train cars
per day (in both directions, according to the SMART published
schedule) by the railway track mileage located within the
community boundary (Marin Map). Average Diesel Multiple
Unit fuel efficiency provided by SMART.
U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix D, Method TR.5.
Emission factors from Equation TR.5.2.
2.12
Off-Road
Vehicles and
Equipment
Off-Road Mobile
Combustion (CO2)
Estimated fuel use from OFFROAD 2021 v.1.0.1 for Lawn and
Garden and Construction equipment. All categories are
allocated by share of countywide households.
CO2 emissions calculated according to U.S. Community Protocol v.
1.1, Appendix D, Method TR.8. Emission factors provided in Table
TR.1.6.
Off-Road Mobile
Combustion
(CH4 & N2O)
Estimated fuel use from OFFROAD 2021 v.1.0.1 for Lawn and
Garden and Construction equipment. All categories are
allocated by share of countywide households.
CH4 and N2O emissions calculated according to U.S. Community
Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix D, Method TR.8. Emission factors
provided in the Local Government Operations Protocol Table
G.11 and G.14.
3.0 Solid Waste
3.2
Solid Waste
Generation
and Disposal
Fugitive Emissions from
Landfilled Waste (CH4)
Estimated landfilled tons based on reporting to CalRecycle by
Marin County Solid and Hazardous Waste JPA and allocated to
jurisdiction based on share of countywide population. Waste
characterization based on the Statewide Waste
Characterization Study (2008, 2014, 2018 and 2021) and
Alternative Daily Cover by Jurisdiction of Origin and Material
Type as reported to CalRecycle.
Emission factors calculated utilizing U.S. Community Protocol for
Accounting and Report of Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Version
1.1, July 2013, Appendix E, Method SW.4.
4.0 Water and Wastewater
4.2
Water Supply
&
Conveyance,
Treatment
and
Distribution
Electricity Use (CO2) Water consumption data provided by Marin Water. Sonoma
County Water Agency (SCWA) delivery amount provided by
SCWA.
Verified utility-specific emission factors (PG&E, MCE and SCWA).
Emissions calculated according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1,
Appendix F, Method WW.14.
Electricity Use
(CH4 & N2O)
Water consumption data provided by Marin Water. Electricity
consumption data provided by MMWD.
eGrid subregion default emission factors. Emissions calculated
according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1, Appendix F, Method
WW.14.
4.5
Treatment of
Wastewater
Stationary Emissions
from Combustion of
Digester Gas
(CH4)
Known amount of digester gas produced per day and known
percent of methane in digester gas provided by Central Marin
Sanitation Agency. Known amount of digester gas produced
per day (2016) and known percent of methane in digester gas
(2017) provided by Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District.
Emissions calculated according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1,
Appendix F, Method WW.1.a.
Stationary Emissions
from Combustion of
Digester Gas
(N2O)
Known amount of digester gas produced per day and known
percent of methane in digester gas provided by Central Marin
Sanitation Agency. Known amount of digester gas produced
Emissions calculated according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1,
Appendix F, Method WW.2.a.
San Rafael Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-6
per day (2016) and known percent of methane in digester gas
(2017) provided by Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District.
Process Emissions from
Wastewater Treatment
Plant without
Nitrification or
Denitrification
Estimated population served by wastewater treatment plant
provided by Central Marin Sanitation Agency.
Emissions calculated according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1,
Appendix F, Method WW.8.
Process Emissions from
Wastewater Treatment
Plant with Nitrification or
Denitrification
Estimated population served by wastewater treatment plant
provided by Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District (2010 data).
Emissions calculated according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1,
Appendix F, Method WW.7.
Fugitive Emissions from
Effluent Discharge
(N2O)
Estimated population served by wastewater treatment plant
provided by Central Marin Sanitation Agency. Assumed
significant industrial or commercial input.
Emissions calculated according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1,
Appendix F, Method WW.12(alt).
Fugitive Emissions from
Effluent Discharge
(N2O)
Estimated population served by wastewater treatment plant
provided by Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District. Assumed no
significant industrial or commercial input.
Emissions calculated according to U.S. Community Protocol v. 1.1,
Appendix F, Method WW.12.
CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
LOCAL GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS
GREENHOUSE GAS INVENTORY FOR 2022
August 2024
Prepared by the
Marin Climate & Energy Partnership
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1
I NTRODUCTION 2
P URPOSE OF INVENTORY 2
GENERAL M ETHODOLOGY 2
G OVERNMENT O PERATIONS I NVENTORY 4
GOVERNMENT P ROFILE 4
G OVERNMENT O PERATIONS I NVENTORY S UMMARY 4
S UMMARY BY SECTOR 4
S UMMARY BY SOURCE 5
GOVERNMENT O PERATIONS I NVENTORY D ETAIL BY SECTOR 6
B UILDINGS AND O THER F ACILITIES 6
P UBLIC L IGHTING 7
W ATER D ELIVERY 7
VEHICLE F LEET 8
W ASTE 8
E MPLOYEE C OMMUTE 9
A PPENDIX A-1
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
San Rafael publishes annual community greenhouse gas (GHG)
emissions estimates through the Marin Climate & Energy Partnership
(MCEP). Annual inventories help the City to more closely monitor its
progress in meeting its local goal to reduce community emissions 25%
below baseline (2005) emissions by 2020 and to meet the statewide
goal to reduce emissions 40% below 1990 emissions by 2030. In
addition to the community inventories, MCEP periodically prepares
inventories for government operations emissions.
This report reviews emissions from government operations, a subset of community emissions. Emissions from
government operations decreased 40% between 2005 and 2022, or about 1,783 metric tons CO 2e. This is equivalent
to 29% below the estimated 1990 level. While government emissions are less than 1% of overall community
emissions, the local government plays a large role in setting an example for the rest of the community.
T ABLE 1: T REND IN L OCAL G OVERNMENT O PERATIONS E MISSIONS, 2005-2022
Recognizing the need for a collaborative approach to greenhouse gas reductions, City and county leaders launched
the Marin Climate and Energy Partnership (MCEP) in 2007. The City of San Rafael is a member of MCEP and works
with representatives from the County of Marin and the other Marin cities and towns to address and streamline the
implementation of a variety of greenhouse gas reduction measures. Funding for this inventory was provided by the
Marin County Energy Watch Partnership, which administers public goods charges collected by PG&E. Community
inventories are available on the MCEP website at marinclimate.org and are used to update the Marin Sustainability
Tracker.
0
500
1,000
1,500
2,000
2,500
3,000
3,500
4,000
4,500
5,000
2005 2010 2016 2022
MT
C
O
2e -40%
T HE T AKEAWAY :
G OVERNMENT O PERATIONS
E MISSIONS D OWN 40% SINCE 2005
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 2
INTRODUCTION
PURPOSE OF INVENTORY
The objective of this greenhouse gas emissions inventory is to identify the sources and quantify the amounts of
greenhouse gas emissions generated by the activities of the San Rafael local government operations in 2022. This
inventory provides a comparison to baseline 2005 emissions and identifies the sectors where significant reductions
in greenhouse gas emissions have occurred.
GENERAL METHODOLOGY
This inventory uses national standards for the accounting and reporting of greenhouse gas emissions. The Local
Government Operations Protocol, version 1.1 (May 2010) was used for the quantification and reporting of
greenhouse gas emissions from local government operations. Quantification methodologies, emission factors, and
activity and source data are detailed in the appendices.
Local government operations emissions are categorized according to the following sectors:
Buildings and Other Facilities
Public Lighting
Water Delivery Facilities
Vehicle Fleet
Solid Waste
Employee Commute
C ALCULATING E MISSIONS
Emissions are quantified by multiplying the measurable activity data – e.g., kilowatt hours of electricity, therms of
natural gas, and gallons of diesel or gasoline – by emissions factors specific to the energy source. Most emissions
factors are the same from year to year. Emission factors for electricity, however, change from year to year due to
the specific sources that are used to produce electricity. For example, electricity that is produced from coal generates
more greenhouse gases than electricity that is generated from natural gas and therefore has a higher emissions
factor. Electricity that is produced solely from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind has an emissions
factor of zero.
This inventory calculates individual greenhouse gases – e.g., carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide – and
converts each greenhouse gas emission to a standard metric, known as “carbon dioxide equivalents” or CO 2e, to
provide an apple-to-apples comparison among the various emissions. Table 1 shows the greenhouse gases identified
in this inventory and their global warming potential (GWP), a measure of the amount of warming each gas causes
when compared to a similar amount of carbon dioxide. Methane, for example, is 28 times as potent as carbon
dioxide over 100 years; therefore, one metric ton of methane is equivalent to 28 metric tons of carbon dioxide.
Greenhouse gas emissions are reported in this inventory as metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalents, or MTCO 2e.
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 3
T ABLE 1: G REENHOUSE G ASES
Gas Chemical
Formula Emission Source Global Warming
Potential
Carbon Dioxide CO2 Combustion of natural gas, gasoline,
diesel, and other fuels 1
Methane CH4
Combustion, anaerobic decomposition
of organic waste in landfills and
wastewater
28
Nitrous Oxide N2O Combustion, wastewater treatment 265
Hydroflourocarbons Various Leaked refrigerants, fire suppressants 4 to 12,400
Source: IPCC Fifth Assessment Report (2014)
T YPES OF E MISSIONS
Emissions from each of the greenhouse gases can come in a number of forms:
Stationary or mobile combustion resulting from the on-site combustion of fuels (natural gas, diesel,
gasoline, etc.) to generate heat or electricity, or to power vehicles and equipment.
Purchased electricity resulting from the generation of power from utilities outside the jurisdictional
boundary.
Fugitive emissions resulting from the unintentional release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, such
as leaked refrigerants and methane from waste decomposition.
Process emissions from physical or chemical processing of a material, such as wastewater treatment.
U NDERSTANDING T OTALS
The totals listed in the tables and discussed in the report are a summation of emissions using available estimation
methods. Each inventoried sector may have additional emissions sources associated with them that were
unaccounted for due to a lack of data or robust quantification methods.
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 4
GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS INVENTORY
GOVERNMENT PROFILE
The City of San Rafael is a general law city and operates under the council-city manager form of government. The
local government operates administrative, planning, building, public works, community services, fire and police
departments. In 2022, there were 496 total employees.
GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS INVENTORY SUMMARY
In 2005, San Rafael’s government operations produced approximately 4,453 metric tons CO 2e. In 2022, those
activities resulted in approximately 2,670 metric tons CO2e, a reduction of 1,783 metric tons, or 40%, and the local
government’s share of community emissions was 0.8%. The following summaries break down these totals by sector
and sources.
SUMMARY BY SECTOR
As shown in Table 2, emissions from government operations were reduced in all sectors. The greatest reduction
occurred in the public lighting sector, where emissions dropped 545 metric tons CO2e, or 100% due to the conversion
of most lighting to LED and the City’s purchase of 100% renewable electricity. Other significant reductions occurred
in the buildings and facilities sector (387 metric tons) and the vehicle fleet sector (270 metric tons). Figure 2 shows
that the employee commute sector was the largest emitter of greenhouse gas emissions in 2022 (37% of total
emissions), followed by the vehicle fleet sector (25%), the waste sector (22%), and the buildings and facilities sector
(16%).
T ABLE 2: SUMMARY BY S ECTOR , 2005 AND 2022
Sector 2005
Metric Tons CO2e
2022
Metric Tons CO2e
Change
Metric Tons CO2e % Change
Buildings & Facilities 809 422 -387 -48%
Vehicle Fleet 933 663 -270 -29%
Public Lighting 545 0 -545 -100%
Water Delivery 118 0 -118 -100%
Waste 711 593 -117 -17%
Employee Commute 1,337 992 -345 -26%
Total 4,453 2,670 -1,783 -40%
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 5
FIGURE 2: E MISSIONS BY SECTOR , 2022
SUMMARY BY SOURCE
Table 3 shows a summary of the City’s greenhouse gas emissions by source. The greatest decreases occurred in
emissions from electricity (1,161 metric tons) and gasoline (523 metric tons), which includes gasoline used in both
the municipal fleet and City employees’ commute. Emissions from the combustion of natural gas increased 32%.
Despite the decrease in gasoline emissions, gasoline was the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in San
Rafael’s governmental operations in 2022 (see Figure 3), contributing more than one-half of all emissions.
T ABLE 3: SUMMARY BY S OURCE , 2005 AND 2022
Source 2005
Metric Tons CO2e
2022
Metric Tons CO2e
Change
Metric Tons CO2e % Change
Electricity 1,161 0 -1,161 -100%
Natural Gas 298 394 96 32%
Gasoline 1,986 1,463 -523 -26%
Diesel 271 178 -92 -34%
Solid Waste 711 593 -117 -17%
Refrigerants 26 41 15 56%
Total 4,453 2,670 -1,783 -40%
Buildings &
Facilities
16%
Vehicle Fleet
25%
Waste
22%
Employee
Commute
37%
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 6
FIGURE 3: E MISSIONS BY SOURCE , 2022
GOVERNMENT OPERATIONS INVENTORY DETAIL BY SECTOR
This section explores government operations and emissions by taking a detailed look at each primary sector.
B UILDINGS AND O THER F ACILITIES
Facilities operations contribute to greenhouse gas emissions in two major ways. First, facilities consume electricity
and fuels such as natural gas. This consumption is associated with the majority of greenhouse gas emissions from
facilities. In addition, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment in buildings can emit hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)
and other greenhouse gases when these systems leak refrigerants. Refrigerants are very potent greenhouse gases
and have Global Warming Potential (GWP) of up to many thousand times that of CO2. For example, HFC-134a, a very
common refrigerant, has a GWP of 1300, or 1300 times that of CO2. Therefore, even small amounts of leaked
refrigerants can have a significant effect on greenhouse gas emissions.
In 2022, San Rafael operated several major facilities, including City Hall, the public safety center, the library, fire
stations, public works buildings, childcare facilities, and community centers. As shown in Table 4, emissions from
the buildings sector decreased 48% between 2005 and 2022. Electricity consumption decreased 6%, and natural gas
consumption increased 41%. Emissions from refrigerants increased due to the City’s installation of new HVAC units
in the Public Safety Center and fire stations. Total emissions from buildings and facilities decreased, however,
primarily because the City purchased MCE Deep Green electricity for all facilities in 2022.
T ABLE 4: B UILDINGS AND O THER F ACILITIES E MISSIONS, 2005 AND 2022
Source
2005
Energy
Consumption
2005 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
2022
Energy
Consumption
2022 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
% Change in
Energy
Consumption
% Change in
GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
Electricity 2,231,608 kWh 498 2,095,090 kWh 0 -6% -100%
Natural Gas 56,042 therms 298 79,110 therms 389 41% 41%
Refrigerants -- 13 -- 28 112%
Total -- 809 -- 422 -- -48%
Natural Gas
15%
Gasoline
55%
Diesel
7%
Solid Waste
22%
Refrigerants
1%
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 7
Table 5 shows electricity and natural gas usage by facility.
T ABLE 5: E NERGY U SAGE AT SAN R AFAEL B UILDINGS AND F ACILITIES , 2005 AND 2022
Building/ Facility Energy Source
2005
Energy
Consumption
2022
Energy
Consumption
% Change in
Energy
Consumption
City Hall Electricity 637,920 kWh 30,965 kWh -95%
Natural Gas 5,651 therms 17,099 therms 203%
Community Centers Electricity 329,020 kWh 366,767 kWh 11%
Natural Gas 27,758 therms 43,946 therms 58%
Childcare Facilities Electricity 111,985 kWh 76,759 kWh -31%
Natural Gas 4,304 therms 2,847 therms -34%
Public Works Electricity 324,010 kWh 98,152 kWh -70%
Natural Gas 5,541 therms 3,577 therms -35%
Fire Department Electricity 248,214 kWh 1,060,651 kWh 327%
Natural Gas 9,431 therms 6,286 therms -33%
Library Electricity 117,350 kWh 159,540 kWh 36%
Natural Gas 0 therms 5,016 therms -
Parking Garages & Lots Electricity 211,118 kWh 177,894 kWh -16%
Other Facilities Electricity 251,991 kWh 101,397 kWh -60%
Natural Gas 3,357 therms 339 therms -90%
P UBLIC L IGHTING
San Rafael operates streetlights, traffic signals, and other outdoor lighting. Emissions associated with the operation
of this public lighting are from electricity consumption. Electricity consumption in the public lighting sector
decreased 44% between 2005 and 202 due to conversion of inefficient lighting to LED fixtures and bulbs. Emissions
decreased 100%; the additional reduction is due to the City’s purchase of MCE Deep Green electricity in 2022.
T ABLE 6: P UBLIC L IGHTING E MISSIONS , 2005 AND 2022
Source
2005
Electricity
Consumption
2005 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
2022
Electricity
Consumption
2022 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
% Change in
Electricity
Consumption
% Change
in GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
Streetlights 2,066,450 kWh 461 1,054,493 kWh 0 -49% -100%
Traffic Signals 249,861 kWh 56 238,530 kWh 0 -5% -100%
Outdoor Lighting 126,245 kWh 28 63,397 kWh 0 -50% -100%
Total 2,442,556 kWh 545 1,356,420 kWh 0 -44% -100%
W ATER D ELIVERY
This sector includes any facilities used for the management and distribution of water. Typical systems included in
this sector are potable water delivery pumps, sprinkler and irrigation controls, and stormwater management. The
systems identified for this report and used by the City were water delivery pumps and sprinkler and irrigation
systems. The source of San Rafael’s water delivery emissions is from electricity consumption. Overall, electricity
usage declined 42% and emissions dropped 100%.
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 8
T ABLE 7: W ATER D ELIVERY E MISSIONS, 2005 AND 2022
Source
2005
Electricity
Consumption
2005 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
2022
Electricity
Consumption
2022 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
% Change in
Electricity
Consumption
% Change in
GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
Irrigation 7,410 kWh 2 5,369 kWh 0 -28% -100%
Water Pumps 520,185 kWh 116 301,444 kWh 0 -42% -100%
Total 527,595 kWh 118 306,813 kWh 0 -42% -100%
VEHICLE F LEET
The vehicles and mobile equipment used in San Rafael’s daily operations include public works trucks and equipment,
police cars and motorcycles, fire trucks, and vehicles for use by administration and other department staff. These
vehicles and equipment burn gasoline and diesel, which result in greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, vehicles
with air conditioning use refrigerants that leak from the vehicle. This sector also includes fuel consumption and
emissions from the operation of off-road and stationary equipment.
Table 8 shows that gasoline consumption decreased 14% since 2005 and diesel consumption decreased 12%, for a
total decrease in fuel consumption of 14%. Emissions fell 29%; the additional decline is due to the City using
renewable diesel in all vehicles in 2022.
T ABLE 8: VEHICLE F LEET E MISSIONS , 2005 AND 2022
Source
2005
Fuel
Consumption
2005 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
2022
Fuel
Consumption
2022 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
% Change in
Fuel
Consumption
% Change in
GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
Gasoline 72,682 gallons 649 62,182 gallons 549 -14% -15%
Diesel 26,489 gallons 271 23,443 gallons 100 -12% -63%
Refrigerants -- 13 -- 13 -- 0%
Total 99,171 gallons 933 66,062 gallons 663 -14% -29%
W ASTE
Waste generated by government buildings and operations include organic material such as paper, food scraps, plant
debris, textiles, and construction waste. This organic material generates methane as it decays in the anaerobic
environment of a landfill. An estimated 75% of this methane is routinely captured via landfill gas collection systems;
however, a portion escapes into the atmosphere. Emissions from waste are an estimate of methane generation that
will result from the decomposition of organic waste sent to the landfill in the inventoried year, even though those
emissions will occur over the 100+ year timeframe that the waste will decompose.
Waste generated by governmental operations increased 19% between 2005 and 2022 and emissions decreased 17%
due to the lower organic content of waste sent to the landfill.
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory 9
T ABLE 9: W ASTE E MISSIONS , 2005 AND 2022
Source
2005
Landfilled
Waste
2005 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
2022
Landfilled
Waste
2022 GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
% Change
in
Landfilled
Waste
% Change
in GHG
Emissions
(MTCO2e)
Street Cans 1,438 tons 402 1,713 tons 336 19% -16%
Parks 548 tons 153 160 tons 31 -71% -79%
Community Centers 239 tons 67 339 tons 67 42% 0%
Other Facilities 135 tons 38 270 tons 82 210% 118%
Waste Hauled by the City 184 tons 51 391 tons 77 112% 49%
Total 2,544 tons 711 3,022 tons 593 19% -17%
E MPLOYEE C OMMUTE
Emissions in the employee commute sector are due to the combustion of fuels used by City employees commuting
to and from work in San Rafael. Emissions dropped 26% due to an improvement in the fuel-efficiency of the vehicles
San Rafael employees are driving to work. However, it is difficult to draw definitive conclusions from the data, as
emissions are determined from employee commute surveys. Twenty-one percent of City employees responded to
the survey. Estimates for total employee commutes were extrapolated from this data.
T ABLE 10: E MPLOYEE C OMMUTE E MISSIONS, 2005 AND 2022
2005 2022 % Change
Number of Employees 425 496 17%
Vehicle Miles Traveled 2,572,471 2,867,029 11%
Emissions per Employee 3.1 2.0 -%
GHG Emissions (MTCO2e) 1,337 992 -26%
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-1
APPENDIX
BUILDINGS AND OTHER FACILITIES SECTOR NOTES
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2005
Scope Emission Type Energy
Consumption
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 1
Stationary Combustion 56,042 therms 297.13 0.00 0.03 0.00 298.07
Fugitive Emissions Refrigerants 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 13.15
TOTAL 297.13 0.00 0.03 0.00 311.22
Scope 2 Purchased Electricity 2,231,608 kWh 495.15 0.01 0.03 0.00 498.23
TOTAL 495.15 0.01 0.03 0.00 498.23
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2022
Scope Emission Type Energy
Consumption
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 1
Stationary Combustion 79,110 therms 388.04 0.00 0.04 0.00 394.08
Fugitive Emissions Refrigerants 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 27.90
TOTAL 388.04 0.00 0.04 0.00 421.98
Scope 2 Purchased Electricity 2,095,090 kWh 331.52 0.00 0.04 0.00 0.00
TOTAL 331.52 0.00 0.04 0.00 0.00
Energy usage was provided by Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) based on PG&E service accounts. LGO
Protocol recommended methods were followed in collection and analysis of this activity data. For electricity,
verified utility-specific (PG&E and MCE) CO2 emissions factor and eGrid subregion default N2O and CH4 emission
factors for WECC California were used. For natural gas, default CO2, CH4 & N2O emission factors by fuel type were
used (U.S. Community Protocol, v. 1.1, May 2010, Tables B.1 and B.3).
Refrigerant type and capacity for air conditioning units were provided by San Rafael public works staff. 2010
refrigerant data was used as a proxy for 2005. LGO Protocol alternate methods were followed in collection and
analysis of refrigerant activity data.
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-2
PUBLIC LIGHTING SECTOR NOTES
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2005
Scope Emission Type Energy
Consumption
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 2 Purchased Electricity 2,442,556 kWh 541.95 0.01 0.04 0.00 545.33
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2022
Scope Emission Type Energy
Consumption
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 2 Purchased Electricity 1,356,420 kWh 0.00 0.00 0.03 0.00 0.00
Energy usage was provided by Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) based on energy usage of PG&E service
accounts. LGO Protocol recommended methods were followed in collection and analysis of this activity data.
Verified utility-specific (PG&E and MCE) CO2 emissions factor and eGrid subregion default N2O and CH4 emission
factors for WECC California were used to calculate emissions.
WATER DELIVERY SECTOR N OTES
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2005
Scope Emission Type Energy
Consumption
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 2 Purchased Electricity 527,595 kWh 117.06 0.00 0.01 0.00 117.79
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2022
Scope Emission Type Energy
Consumption
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 2 Purchased Electricity 306,813 kWh 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.00
Energy usage was provided by Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) based on energy usage of PG&E service
accounts. LGO Protocol recommended methods were followed in collection and analysis of this activity data.
Verified utility-specific (PG&E and MCE) CO2 emissions factor and eGrid subregion default N2O and CH4 emission
factors for WECC California were used to calculate emissions.
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-3
VEHICLE FLEET SECTOR N OTES
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2005
Scope Emission Type Energy Consumption Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 1
Combustion 72,682 gallons gasoline 638.15 0.04 0.03 0.00 648.84
Combustion 26,489 gallons diesel 270.45 0.00 0.00 0.00 270.68
Fugitive Emissions Refrigerants 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 13.15
TOTAL 908.60 0.04 0.03 0.01 932.67
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2022
Scope Emission Type Energy Consumption Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 1
Combustion 62,182 gallons gasoline 545.96 0.01 0.02 0.00 549.40
Combustion 23,443 gallons diesel 99.91 0.00 0.00 0.00 100.09
Fugitive Emissions Refrigerants 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 13.15
TOTAL 645.87 0.01 0.02 0.01 662.64
On and off-road vehicle fleet and equipment fuel data were provided by City of San Rafael. VMT data for 2010 was
used as a proxy for 2022. LGO Protocol methods were followed in collection and analysis of vehicle fuel
consumption and vehicle miles traveled (VMT). Default CO 2 emission factors for transport fuel from the Local
Government Operations Protocol, v. 1.1, May 2010, Table G.11 were used for gasoline and diesel. Renewable diesel
emission factor provided by NEXGEN. Default N2O and CH4 emission factors for highway vehicles by model year from
the from the Local Government Operations Protocol, v. 1.1, May 2010, Table G.12. 2005 emissions were used and
were adjusted to reflect IPCC AR5 values for N2O and CH4.
Refrigerant capacities for vehicles were estimated using sources provided by ICLEI. LGO Protocol alternate
methods were followed in collection and analysis of refrigerant activity data. 2010 activity data and emissions
were used as a proxy for 2005 and 2022 data.
WASTE SECTOR NOTES
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2005
Scope Emission Type Weight Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 3 Landfilled Waste 2,543.6 tons 0.00 0.00 25.38 0.00 710.68
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-4
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2022
Scope Emission Type Weight Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 3 Landfilled Waste 3,022.2 tons 0.00 0.00 21.19 0.00 593.41
Solid waste collection data for quantity of containers, container size, pick-ups per week was provided by Marin
Sanitary Service. Containers were assumed to be 100% filled at 250 lbs. per cubic yard. 2005 data was revised to
reflect a higher weight per cubic yard estimate as recommended by Marin Sanitary Service. All trash bins were
assumed to have a 0% diversion rate.
Waste characterization estimated based on the Statewide Waste Characterization Study (2008 and 2021). Emission
factors calculated utilizing U.S. Community Protocol for Accounting and Report of Greenhouse Gas Emissions,
Version 1.1, July 2013, Appendix E, Method SW.4. 2005 emissions were adjusted to reflect IPCC AR5 values for CH 4.
EMPLOYEE COMMUTE SECTOR NOTES
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T YPE , 2005
Scope Emission Type Number of
Employees
Vehicle Miles
Traveled
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 3 Mobile Combustion 220 2,572,471 1,306.95 0.11 0.08 0.00 1,337.23
LGO P ROTOCOL – E MISSIONS BY S COPE AND E MISSION T Y PE , 2022
Scope Emission Type Number of
Employees
Vehicle Miles
Traveled
Greenhouse Gas Emissions (metric tons)
CO2 N2O CH4 HFCs CO2e
Scope 3 Mobile Combustion 496 2,867,029 986.48 0.02 0.05 0.00 913.86
In 2024, the City distributed commute surveys to its employees regarding travel mode, vehicle type and model
year, fuel type, fuel efficiency, and miles traveled to work. Information provided by respondents was used to
estimate gallons of fuel consumed and, if necessary, to determine fuel efficiency at www.fueleconomy.gov.
Weekly data were converted into annual VMT data assuming 10% reduction for vacation days, sick days and
holidays for full-time and part-time employees. 103 employees responded to the survey, a response rate of 21%.
Estimates for total employee commutes were extrapolated from this data. Utilized default CO 2 emission factors for
transport fuel from the Local Government Operations Protocol, v. 1.1, May 2010, Table G.11. 2005 emissions were
adjusted to reflect IPCC AR5 values for N2O and CH4.
INFORMATION ITEMS
Information items are emissions sources that are not included in the inventory but are reported here to provide a
more complete picture of emissions from San Rafael’s government operations. Information items for this inventory
include one parks department vehicle, refrigerators, freezers, and air conditioning units using R-12 and R-22
refrigerants. These refrigerants are not included in the inventory because they are ozone-depleting substances and
are being phased out by 2020 under the terms of the Montreal Protocol.
San Rafael Local Government Operations Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Appendix A-5
I NFORMATION I TEMS
Source Refrigerant Metric Tons CO2e
Refrigerators and Air Conditioning R-12, R-22 13.83
Total 13.83
SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAM WORKPLAN – FY 2023-2025 STATUS UPDATE
2023-2025 ACTION STRATEGIES STATUS UPCOMING
1. Work with City departments to
integrate climate action and
resilience into department goals
and projects.
In progress.
Met and developed activities with Digital Services,
Economic Development and Parking Services.
Hosting an open house for employees
in September. Anticipate completion
February 2025.
2. Implement SB 1383, including
enforcement, reporting,
procurement, and edible food
recovery requirements.
In progress.
Signed agreement with Zero Waste Marin to enforce.
Conducted internal operations planning and trainings
and purchasing. Conducted community outreach. First
review by CalRecycle in progress.
Respond to CalRecycle this fall.
Continue outreach and education and
internal coordination ongoing.
3. Explore a Climate Financing
District with County & other
stakeholders to help plan
adaptation and mitigation
combined with housing security
In progress.
Met with Finance Director and NHS Advisors, convened
a Bay Area Wide climate finance panel to develop
knowledge across jurisdictions.
Continue discussions with Finance,
Economic and Community
Development and continue
participation in countywide sea level
rise adaptation planning effort with
County of Marin.
4. Adopt and implement an Electric
Vehicle Strategy Workplan based
on the Countywide EV
Acceleration Strategy. Include City
fleet as well as public charging
infrastructure and a focus on
equity.
Adoption completed.
Implementation in progress.
Contracted with consultant to develop a 5-year plan
for medium and heavy-duty vehicle transition and
infrastructure upgrades. Reserved spot in PGE EV Fleet
Program. Received awards for technical assistance
from MCE and Metropolitan Transportation
Commission. Participating on MCE Charged by Public
Power clean vehicle working group. Participating on
PGE EV Fleet Electrification Advisory Group.
Complete new Fleet Policy.
Complete application for PG&E EV
Fleet Program.
Develop RFP for EV charger project at
City Facilities.
Complete fleet transition plan.
Anticipated completion June 2025
Continue participation in community
EV working groups.
Anticipated completion in future years.
SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAM WORKPLAN – FY 2023-2025 STATUS UPDATE
5. Work with County to promote
energy efficiency and
electrification of existing
buildings, including investigating
potential for community
Microgrids
In progress.
Completed the development of an existing buildings
energy efficiency ordinance, adopted by Council May
2024. Participating in countywide building
electrification roadmap development.
Participate in completion of
countywide building electrification and
energy efficiency roadmap.
Consider new green building reach
codes for next building code cycle.
Convene stakeholders to develop local
clean energy and microgrid proposals.
Anticipated completion June 2024.
6. Develop the Equitable Low
Carbon Economy program
recommendations and begin work
on relevant projects.
Research and recommendations report completed,
including priority work plan.
Updated web resources for businesses.
Implementation in Progress.
Applied for clean transportation workforce
development project for East San Rafael/Canal.
See workplan priorities.
Anticipated completion in future years.
7. Continue the Illegal Dumping
program pilots and bring a suite
of solutions to Council for
consideration for long-term
dumping reductions.
In progress.
5 years of pilot programs and data collection
completed.
Proposal anticipated to go to Council
Fall 2024. Implementation anticipated
in 2025.
8. Complete the grant-funded Canal
Collaboration and SLR Feasibility
Assessment project toward
identifying adaptation priorities to
pursue.
In progress.
Feasibility study underway.
Contracts in place with two community nonprofits, UC
Berkeley, and consultant team.
Conducted dozens of engagements and educational
activities.
Completed numerous data and mapping studies
deepening our knowledge of vulnerabilities.
Host community education events.
Complete feasibility study.
Anticipated completion by fall 2025.
Identify new funding for continuation
of planning effort.
SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAM WORKPLAN – FY 2023-2025 STATUS UPDATE
9. Develop a citywide climate
resilience plan and integrate with
Local Hazard Mitigation Plan and
other resilience planning efforts
and documents.
In progress.
Participating in County engagement to determine
countywide collaboration and plan development.
Participating in Bay Conservation Development
Commission regional climate adaptation process.
Anticipated to continue to build our
data and suite of proposals throughout
2025, with plan development in the
future based on new regional
guidelines under development.
10. Implement and respond to state
laws such as automated solar
permitting, green building,
renewable energy, and others
that arise.
Ongoing.
Have been implementing or responding to state laws
and regulations including SB 272, solar permitting, and
green building requirements.
Ongoing.
11. Reimagine and rebuild the
Volunteer Program including
development of new positions in
departments and new community
volunteer opportunities such as
increasing community cleanups
and tree and landscape programs.
In progress.
Developing proposal in conjunction with Human
Resources and City Manager.
Finalize proposal and hire accordingly
by early 2025.