Changes must be made to slice carbon emissions in the Kansas City area.

That would improve the quality of life in this region, making it more attractive to new residents and businesses.

But what specific actions should residents and businesses take to reach these excellent goals?
A number of organizations are diligently trying to answer that question.

The groups include the Mid-America Regional Council, Bridging the Gap and Kansas City’s environmental office.

They need to be practical and mindful of the potential impact on the local economy as they act.

A recent survey showed what they are up against: Kansas City has the sixth-worst carbon emissions per person among the country’s largest 40 metropolitan areas.
Two of the reasons for that woeful ranking point to what could be done to cut carbon emissions.

 Kansas City area residents travel many miles on local highways, which indicates we need better transit systems on both sides of the state line.

 Homeowners here use more energy, especially from coal-fired power plants, than in many other parts of the country. The coal plants need to be equipped with much more efficient pollution controls.

Other common-sense recommendations to reduce carbon emissions likely will be part of a final report endorsed by Kansas City officials this summer.

Cities should build streets that encourage more pedestrian and bicycle traffic.
Companies can promote bus use with subsidies for monthly passes.

And local governments ought to require construction of environmentally friendly buildings in return for public subsidies.
Civic and elected officials must find the will — and the money — to improve the carbon footprint of the Kansas City area.