Tempe has been recognized for its efforts to create a sustainable city through its Climate Action Plan and electric vehicle charging station program.

The recognition came from Salt River Project, which has started a program that “provides a structure to assist cities in understanding and demonstrating their efforts in the area of sustainability to ensure their future competitiveness,” according to a release.

"Embracing sustainability continues to be important for cities and communities to remain competitive in today’s world," said Tom Cooper, director of SRP corporate strategy, sustainability and economic services.

"SRP remains committed to promoting smart and sustainable growth across Arizona."

The SRP Sustainable Cities program also helps the utility meet its own 2035 corporate goals, officials said, including partnering with communities and Tribal Nations on economic development initiatives as well as programs related to water, energy and sustainability.

"Tempe has always been a forward-thinking city,” Mayor Corey Woods said.

“Implementing sustainable practices in all aspects of our community is important to conserving valuable resources, saving money and embracing innovation."

The mayor said businesses are interested in multi-modal transportation, electric vehicle charging stations and heat-reducing efforts.

“By leading efforts to provide these services we can attract more companies to our community while helping our planet,” Woods said.

For more on Tempe’s winning programs:

https://www.tempe.gov/home/showdocument?id=101145&t=638144662252390363 and https://www.tempe.gov/government/sustainability-and-resilience/green-codes-and-standards/electric-tempe