title
WHEREAS, the scientific consensus confirms that human activity-especially coal, oil, and gas use- is the primary cause of climate change, threatening global ecosystems and human wellbeing; and,
body
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh's industrial past fueled national progress but also left behind pollution economic hardship, and health disparities in many neighborhoods; and,
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh has repeatedly reinvented itself, now standing as a global leader in sustainability, innovation, and resilience; and,
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh has already experienced the effects of climate change, including more frequent and severe flooding, extreme heat events, air quality degradation, and impacts to local ecosystems and biodiversity; and,
WHEREAS, new fossil fuel infrastructure worsens pollution in frontline communities, compounding environmental and health inequalities; and,
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh communities bear disproportionate health risks from fossil fuel pollution, including asthma, cardiovascular disease, and other respiratory illnesses that increase healthcare costs and reduce quality of life for residents; and,
WHEREAS, fossil fuel dependence exposes residents to high and unstable energy costs, straining household budgets; and,
WHEREAS, transitioning to clean energy offers economic, environmental, and public health benefits that far outweigh continued fossil fuel use; and,
WHEREAS, a just energy transition must prioritize investments in communities hit hardest by disinvestment and pollution, ensuring good jobs and equitable benefits; and,
WHEREAS, Pittsburgh has shown leadership through Climate Action Plans and renewable energy goals, but recognized the need to address fossil fuel sources directly; and,
WHEREAS, residents continue to call for stronger action on pollution, public health, and environmental justice; and,
WHEREAS, this Will of Council affirms Pittsburgh's opposition to any rollback of climate and environmental protections and recognizes that the ...
Click here for full text