Scottsdale’s draft Community Sustainability Plan is open for public feedback until Tuesday, April 30 and is scheduled for consideration and adoption by the city council on May 21.

Designed to align with the 2035 General Plan approved by Scottsdale voters, the Community Sustainability Plan provides a comprehensive approach to energy, water, waste, air quality, and extreme heat management.

By targeting these key areas, the plan aims to enhance the natural environment and seeks to bring about other tangible benefits — such as cost savings, improved health and economic vitality.

The draft was created over the past two years through a series of studies, public meetings, plan review and feedback from residents, city council and the Scottsdale Environmental Advisory Commission.

The plan is an aspirational document and not a mandate so there are no penalties for not achieving the targets set in each of the five areas.

The indicators and baseline data for each priority show “where we are” and are tied to targets that are “where we want to be.” The work builds on existing plans, looking beyond what the city is doing and providing policy direction where efforts are newer or more urgent.

The draft plan commits to safeguarding Scottsdale’s environment and quality of life, but also positions the city as a leader in sustainable urban development, building a future that is not only prosperous, but environmentally responsible.

Review and comment on the draft at ScottsdaleAZ.gov, search “Sustainability Plan.”