FUSE is a national nonprofit dedicated to increasing the capacity of local governments to engage communities, advance racial equity, and work more effectively for everyone. We believe, as communities adapt to constantly evolving challenges, that economic advancement and narrowing racial disparities is not only possible, but achievable.
FUSE was founded in 2011 by a group of leaders from the public, private, and social sectors. They designed an executive fellowship-based model to accelerate community-based problem-solving.
FUSE currently has five climate-focused projects underway:
- Advancing Equitable Strategies for Vehicle Electrification
The City of New Orleans has set an ambitious goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2035 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Since transportation is responsible for 44% of the city's GHG emissions, the City aims to transition 75% of its fleet to low- or no-emission vehicles.
- Designing a Sustainable Solution to Waste Management
The City of Durham is committed to investing in and engaging with historically excluded low-wealth and communities of color through the Equitable and Green Infrastructure Program (EGI). The City plans to deploy infrastructure solutions that address disparities and promote environmental justice, including $50 million worth of potential projects in 2021.
- Building Funding Solution Strategies for Climate Resilience
The City of San José is working on "Climate Smart San José", nine climate strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change on its residents, such as extreme heat, weather, drought, and sea level rise.
- Cultivating Partnerships for a Sustainable Water Future
Climate change is causing more severe droughts and floods, threatening local water supplies. San José has experienced persistent drought, leading to reduced water supply and increased costs. To address this, the City implemented the "Climate Smart San José" strategy to reduce water consumption, enhance reuse and recycling efforts, and support legislative measures.
- Advancing the Regional Green Jobs Agenda
King County Washington’s Green Jobs Ordinance reveals that women and BIPOC communities are often excluded from well-paying green jobs. To address this, King County, the City of Seattle, and the Port of Seattle are partnering with FUSE to create a strategic plan promoting green jobs and equitable access to green careers.