Chicago laid out plans last week to cut greenhouse gas emissions to 1/4 of 1990 levels by 2020 and to 1/5 by 2050, as called for in the 1997 Kyoto global warming protocols.  According to the AP, Chicago is the first to identify specific pollution sources and to lay out how it would achieve the reductions in a measurable way.  "The plan calls for making buildings more energy efficient, finding clean and renewable energy sources, improving transportation and reducing industrial pollution."

According to Suzanne Malec-McKenna, Chicago's environmental commissioner, the City Council will consider an ordinance that would "require such things as better insulation, heating and cooling systems and windows in all commercial, industrial and residential buildings.  The plan also calls for expanding the number of green rooftops, increasing recycling and car-pooling and promoting alternative fuels."  The city has also reached agreement with two coal-fired power plants to reduce emissions or shut down.