Proclamation
Whereas, April 2 2, 2023, marks the 53rd anniversary of the first Earth Day celebration, and is celebrated at events across the globe supporting environmental protection; and
Whereas, April 28, 2023, marks the 151th anniversary of the first Arbor Day celebration encouraging Americans to maintain and replenish our country’s forests, orchards, and woodlands; and
Whereas, more than one billion people from over 192 countries participate in Earth Day activities, making it the largest civic observance in the world; and
Whereas, Arbor Day is also observed throughout the world, and has become an annual reminder of the constant need for environmental stewardship and sustainability efforts; and
Whereas, the City of Alameda manages a robust urban forest comprised of 25,962 trees with 301 unique species that sequester 446.8 tons of carbon and remove 8.82 tons of air pollution, while providing $2.3 million in environmental benefits annually; and
Whereas, trees are an important part of the City of Alameda ’s efforts to combat climate change, by moderating temperature, cleaning the air, providing essential habitat for wildlife, cleaning and slowing stormwater runoff, and reducing heating and cooling costs; and
Whereas, trees are a valuable economic asset for both residents and businesses and contribute to an improved quality of life and emotional, psychological, and physical health; and
Whereas, the City of Alameda and our reside nts, organizations, and businesses have shown committed leadership to a sustainable environment and green economy as expressed through the management of Alameda’s Urban Forest, the development of a new forward - looking Urban Forest Plan, and the implementation of the Climate Action and Resiliency Plan, General Plan, Active Transportation Plan, and Zero Waste Plan; and
Whereas, multiple City departments and partner organizations are sponsoring Alameda’s Arbor Day Planting and are giving away tree saplings and sharing information at the Spring Shindig.
Now, therefore be it resolved, that I, Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Mayor of the City of Alameda, do hereby proclaim April 22, 2023 as
Earth Day
and proclaim April 28, 2023 as
Arbor Day
and encourage Alameda residents and businesses to participate in celebratory and planting activities.
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor