US Mayors’ Statement on Global Warming – 2003
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Mayors from across the US are concerned about the impacts of global warming on our communities. Many of us are actively pursuing reductions at the municipal level, but know it will take leadership at the national level to slow the rate of global warming. We urge the Federal Government to focus attention and policy efforts on this critical issue. Global warming poses significant threats to communities across the country. We are already feeling impacts in the form of heat waves, shrinking water supplies and snow pack, increased rates of asthma, floods and storms, and coastal erosion. The scientific community is very clear in its warning – we must act now to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions below current levels or we will quickly reach a point at which global warming can not be reversed. This issue requires an effective response from the US Federal Government. Many local governments across the country have made it a policy priority to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As mayors, we know that actions that promote energy conservation and efficiency, sustainable transportation (such as expanded mass transit, alternative fuel vehicles, and bike and pedestrian safety amenities) and reduce solid waste also reduce greenhouse gas and criteria pollutants emissions and bring a host of benefits to our communities. These actions reduce financial waste for local governments, businesses and citizens; they make our communities more livable; they increase spending and economic investment in our communities; and they increase the quality of life for current and future generations. In addition to these benefits, two other reasons have recently emerged that put reducing greenhouse gas emissions at the top of the policy priority list. The first is energy security. Switching to cleaner energy sources, practicing conservation and maximizing energy efficiency will ease US dependence on foreign fossil fuel-based energy, and at the same time improve local air quality and public health. The second driver is the simple fact that the people in our communities are calling on us as elected leaders to address global warming. A public mandate is emerging in cities and towns across the country calling for governments at all levels to protect the global climate. As Mayors responsible for the well being of our communities, we urge the federal government to maintain, enhance and implement new domestic policies and programs that work with local communities to reduce global warming pollution. Initial Signatories Mayor James Garner, Hempstead NY; Mayor Vera Katz, Portland OR; Mayor Ed Garza, San Antonio TX; Mayor Dick Murphy, San Diego CA; Mayor R.T. Rybak, Minneapolis MN [Plus 152 additional mayors according to STAPPA/ALAPCO] Contact: Susan Ode, Outreach Director ICLEI Cities for Climate Protection Campaign 510-540-8843 sode@iclei.org |
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