How Is Seattle Responding To Climate Change?
Hello there, fellow Seattleites! We know the effects of climate change; we are Seattleites in a beautiful city. From record-breaking heat waves to smoky skies due to wildfires, we are already experiencing the warming of the planet. But here's the good news: Seattle is rising to the challenge and doing something about the climate crisis. Now let us take a closer look at the ways our city is taking this global crisis by the horns.
Cutting Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Most importantly, the state is dedicated to cutting off its greenhouse gas emissions. It has set a target of becoming carbon neutral by the year 2050. And it is making efforts to achieve just that. Some of the key strategies are focusing on the two biggest sources of emissions: transportation and buildings.
Seattle is investing in electric vehicles for its city fleet and in the necessary expansion of charging infrastructure to make it transitionally easier for residents to go electric. The city is also working toward reducing emissions from big buildings through a policy intervention like the Building Emissions Performance Standard, which requires large commercial and multi-family buildings to reduce their emissions over time.
And let's not neglect the power of individual action! As a citizenry, we can do our bit by walking, cycling, or using public transportation instead of personal vehicles and by making our homes more energy-efficient. Even small changes, like hiring Seattle cleaners who use eco-friendly products, can add up to a big impact.
Preparing for Climate Impacts
While emissions reduction is key, Seattle is also preparing for the impacts we know will come. Sea levels are projected to rise by up to two feet by mid-century and five feet by 2100—this has the most significance for our coastal city. The city is working to build a resilience district in two neighborhoods that are particularly at risk so it can focus on infrastructure investment and community wealth building in those areas.
Nearly as significant is the risk of extreme heat, illustrated by the deadly "heat dome" in June 2021. The city is working on expanding the number of cooling centers and investing in programs to protect low-income residents and communities of color, who all too often bear the brunt of these impacts.
Collaborating for Climate Action
It will take all of us to tackle a challenge as big as climate change. That's why Seattle, with many partners across the region, is working to coordinate strategies for climate adaptation and preparedness with King County, the Port of Seattle, and others.
The city is also involved in deep outreach with community groups and frontline communities to ensure that its climate policies and programs are just and reflective of the needs of those most impacted. For example, the city's Environmental Justice Committee is helping to lead implementation on the Seattle Equity and Environment Agenda, with members from communities of color and low-income communities at its foundation.
Leading the Way on Climate
Seattle is not just in the league of one city but actually plays a lead role in showing the way to others. As one of the cities in the Carbon Neutral Cities Alliance, a network of cities from around the world pledged to leading in audacious climate action, when Seattle succeeds in reducing emissions or adapting to climate impacts, it shares those lessons with other cities facing similar challenges.
Of course, there is much work left to be done: revenue sources for major infrastructure projects are always a bear, and ensuring that the benefits of climate action are distributed equitably will always be a work in progress. But with its combination of bold goals, concrete actions, and collaborative spirit, Seattle is well positioned to be a leader in the fight against climate change.
What You Can Do
So, what is it that you can do to help Seattle's efforts toward climate improvement? A lot! In a nutshell:
Walk, bike, or take transit instead of driving
Weatherize your home with LED light bulbs and weather-stripping, and install a programmable thermostat
Patronize local businesses that are sustaining the environment by being environmentally friendly, such as Seattle cleaners that use only green products
Participate in community groups that are working on climate justice and equity
Stay informed about the City's climate policies and programs, and share your support for ambitious climate action with your elected officials.
Remember, tackling climate change is a team sport. If we are all in this together—city government, businesses, community groups, and all of us residents—we can create a sustainable, resilient, and equitable Seattle for generations to come. Let's all get to work!
