Climate Rising Governing Climate Action: Massachusetts’ Strategy for Decarbonization and Resilience
Oct 29, 2025
Jonathan Schrag, the Deputy Climate Chief for Massachusetts, sheds light on the state's innovative climate strategies. He reveals how the new Climate Office integrates environmental policy across various state sectors. Discussion topics include ambitious emissions targets, electrification efforts, and local roles in building codes and EV infrastructure. Schrag also tackles challenges from federal rollbacks and supply chain issues while highlighting potential in offshore wind and geothermal projects. Additionally, he shares insights on small modular nuclear reactors and adapting public-private financing for a sustainable future.
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Statewide Climate Office Multiplies Impact
- Massachusetts created the nation's first statewide climate office to coordinate climate across all government functions.
- Jonathan Schrag says embedding climate into labor, health, corrections, and transportation multiplies impact beyond environmental agencies.
Ambitious Targets Require A Steeper Ramp
- Massachusetts aims for 50% CO2 reduction by 2030 and 80% by 2050, plus natural lands for net-zero.
- Schrag notes strong progress but warns the 2025–2030 period must see a steep ramp-up amid growing headwinds.
Use Tiered Codes And Incentives
- Use a tiered state building code and incentivize municipalities to adopt the more ambitious stretch or specialized codes.
- Schrag highlights the Green Communities Program as a lever to drive electrification-ready construction and retrofits.