Proclamation
Whereas, April 22, 2024 marks the 54 th annual Earth Da y, and this year’s theme, “Planet vs. Plastics, ” reinforces Alameda’s deep commitment to reduce the proliferation of plastic we consume and promote public awareness about the extensive damage plastic causes to our ecosystems; and
Whereas, April 26, 2024 marks the 152nd annual Arbor Day when we observe the essential role trees play in promoting healthy urban environments, and encourage Americans to replenish and protect trees which are among Earth’s most vital resources; and
Whereas, Alameda has made great strides in reducing its climate footprint, including providing 100% clean energy to all Alameda Municipal Power (AMP) customers, encouraging electrification of buildings and clean modes of transportation, reducing single-use packaging waste, and planting drought-tolerant landscaping at City facilities. However , as an island city, we recognize the serious vulnerabilities and existential threat we face from the effects of climate change; and
Whereas, the 2024 Workplan for Alameda’s Climate Action and Resilience Plan (CARP) includes a new five-year update, continued analysis of three shoreline adaptation projects, developing a master plan for De-Pave Park, creating new waste management strategies to reach our Zero Waste goal, and guiding the expansion of the Urban Forest Plan to maintain the City’s tree canopy over the next decade; and
Whereas, sea level and groundwater rise from climate change pose a unique risk to Alameda and surrounding communities, and adapting to these risks requires a holistic effort and collaboration and coordination among communities and agencies. To address these challenges, in 2021, the City of Alameda established the Oakland Alameda Adaptation Committee (OAAC/“oak”), more than 100 representatives from local, regional, state, and federal agencies, community- based organizations, and Tribes because w e are stronger speaking with one voice to promote community resilience; and
Whereas, 70 percent of Alameda’s greenhouse gas emissions result from our transportation use , so Alameda continues to prioritize planning, build ing, and funding multimodal transportation programs and infrastructure, including a new Water Shuttle connecting Alameda and Oakland, free transit passes, robust bicycle facilities throughout the City, and a bicycle-pedestrian bridge across the Estuary; and
Whereas, we applaud local organizations, including “I Heart Oakland Alameda Estuary” which, since 2016, has removed 6,000 pounds of garbage along the Estuary shoreline; CASA (Community Action for a Sustainable Alameda) which raises and mobilizes community awareness to help achieve Alameda’s climate goals; Bike Walk Alameda which advocates for safe, enjoyable places to bike and walk ; and REAP Climate Center which provides community learning experiences that empower actions with local and global impact.
Now, therefore, be it resolved, that I, Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft, Mayor of the City of Alameda, do hereby proclaim April 22, 2024 as
Earth Day
and April 26, 2024 as
Arbor Day
in the City of Alameda, and encourage Alameda residents and businesses to learn more about protect ing our planet, including by participating in Alameda’s Spring Shindig and Crown Beach Clean Up on April 20, and the Bike Festival at Love Elementary on April 27.
Marilyn Ezzy Ashcraft
Mayor