One of the challenges of the NCL has been ensuring small and rural communities are being fairly represented. We have tried to select indicators that apply across many different contexts, but this is not always possible (public transit, for example, is an important urban climate solution that does not work as well in a rural community). There is also generally less data available for small communities. To address this issue, we have collected five case studies from small commu

The National Climate League is an annual initiative that tracks the performance of municipalities on 26 climate and sustainability indicators The National Climate League is an annual initiative that tracks the performance of municipalities on 26 climate and sustainability indicators—from green space, to housing affordability, to renewable energy, to transit ridership. Every year we publish our results in the National Climate League Standings, comparing how municipalities acro

These indicators track municipal governance and management on climate and sustainability. Who is making decisions and are they representative of the community? What commitments has the municipality made? Are they backing up those commitments with adequate resources? Why this Indicator is Important Cities can set targets and create plans to achieve climate and sustainability targets—however, these will only be achieved if the city has dedicated a sufficient number of staff wit

These indicators track how well municipalities are providing options and infrastructure that makes sustainable transportation possible. How easy is it to travel by public transit, walking, biking, and electric or shared vehicles? Why this Indicator is Important Efficient, effective, affordable public transit cuts pollution, automobile congestion, commuter times, and greenhouse gas emissions.1 Approximately 20% to 40% of people do not drive due to income, ability, age, or choi

These indicators track how well municipalities are providing options and infrastructure that makes sustainable transportation possible. How easy is it to travel by public transit, walking, biking, and electric or shared vehicles? Why this Indicator is Important Walkability measures how easy it is for residents to travel around the city by foot, including being able to access workplaces, schools, grocery stores, and other essential services and amenities. By decreasing emissio