If we want to reverse climate change, we need to act now, local leaders say - lehighvalleylive.com
If we want to reverse climate change, we need to act now, local leaders say - lehighvalleylive.com
Ninety-degree heat waves, smoke from Canadian wildfires, and extreme weather across the globe are all signs that climate change is real, and it’s getting worse, according to a group of local officials.
They gathered Tuesday at Easton City Hall to express their support for zero-emission transportation in the future.
“The transportation sector is the leading domestic source of carbon pollution that is driving climate change,” said state Rep. Robert Freeman, D-136th District.
The officials called for the strongest possible federal clean car standards. They urged investment in public transportation, investment in charging stations for electric vehicles and encouraged the federal Environmental Protection Agency to impose the most stringent standards for pollution for cars, trucks and delivery vehicles made from 2027 to 2023.
“We need to transition to a future without harmful emissions and stronger federal clean car standards will be key to doing that,” Freeman said.
Lafayette College engineering professor Ben Cohen voiced his support for zero-emissions vehicle standards. He and his students helped develop a climate action plan adopted by Easton City Council. The plan advocated for more greenspace and walkability to lessen the reliance of city residents on cars.
Climate change affects the most vulnerable, Northampton County Commissioner Tara Zrinski said. Poor air quality affects children and the elderly. Rising sea levels also affect vulnerable populations, she said.
Zrinski said local leaders must speak out and must be part of the climate change solution.
“It is crucial for our government at every level to lend their support,” she said.
Also attending the event were Easton City Councilman David O’Connell and Carolyn VanDyke of the Lehigh Valley chapter of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby.
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Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com.
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