Environmental Sustainability in Northbrook

2021 Climate Action Plan aims for a 35% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and an 80% reduction by 2040. 

The Village of Northbrook has a legacy of addressing environmental issues and a continuing commitment to conservation, climate action, and local sustainability. In 2021, the Village Board established a Sustainability Commission and adopted the Climate Action Plan (CAP), which aims for a 35% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and an 80% reduction by 2040, among other key initiatives in energy, natural resources, and community development. For more information on the CAP, please visit the Climate Action Plan page. 

Sustainable Northbrook Map Snapshot Opens in new window

Sustainability in Northbrook is around every corner! The Sustainable Northbrook Map tracks our geo-locatable progress in improving our environmental sustainability across various categories. Click around and explore the map at this link. Below you can also find take a virtual tour of our sustainable gardens in Northbrook. 

Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved in sustainability initiatives in and around the Northbrook region, including volunteer opportunities, Village initiatives, and community events. For more information, visit the Get Involved webpage. 

History of Climate ActionCAP Cover Page

Climate Action Plan 

In 2021, the Village Board adopted the Climate Action Plan, which establishes a comprehensive plan of specific strategies and detailed actions that Northbrook looks to implement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and build resilience to related climactic impacts.

The plan solidifies and demonstrates the Village's commitment to protecting Northbrook's natural ecosystems, most vulnerable populations, and economic vitality against the increasing impacts of climate change. 

Greenest Region Compact

When Northbrook signed on to the Greenest Region Compact in September 2018, the Village agreed to achieve green goals in collaboration with other municipalities across the Chicagoland region. Through the Greenest Region Corps, Northbrook receives an Americorps volunteer to serve our community as a Sustainability Fellow. With the GRC agreement, the Village tracks progress in 10 key sustainability areas:

  1. ClimateGRCLOGO
  2. Energy
  3. Leadership
  4. Economic Development
  5. Municipal Operations
  6. Water
  7. Land
  8. Mobility
  9. Sustainable Communities
  10. Waste & Recycling


Sustainability Framework 

In 2013, the Village and Northbrook Park District partnered to create the Strategic Sustainability Plan, which outlines improvements and initiatives in energy, material management, natural resources, community development and transportation for a more sustainable future.

Leaf Blower Regulations Working Group

The Village of Northbrook, along with neighboring municipalities, participates in a Leaf Blower Working Group to study the impacts of gas-powered leaf blowers, alternative technologies, and how communities can mitigate the impacts of these devices. Click here for more details.