Climate Change Regional Action Resolution

WHEREAS, Communities can recast the challenges of global climate change and energy independence as opportunities to build economic vitality across Wisconsin; and

WHEREAS, given the inherently diverse impact of climate change, appropriate actions and reactions will vary according to the specific region of Wisconsin; and

WHEREAS, the resources available for adaptation and mitigation also vary across Wisconsin's regions; and

WHEREAS, a single individual, community or region cannot eliminate the effects of global climate change, but together individuals, businesses, communities and regions across Wisconsin can improve our economic outlook by subduing its force in our state; and

WHEREAS, the reduction of greenhouse gases along with increases in energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy will increase our energy independence from the Middle East, create new jobs and save citizens and businesses millions of dollars while significantly improving our quality of life;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the undersigned resolves to organize the community resources necessary to:

·        Develop a community action plan built around the potential for governmental, non-profit and private actions to mitigate and adapt to the challenges of climate change. This plan will include options for energy, transportation, waste management, municipal infrastructure, community purchasing and local food purchasing.

·        Create specific goals for the reduction of greenhouse gases and a timeframe for reaching those goals.

·        Develop and implement a community-wide public information and education plan built around the issues of climate change and energy independence.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the undersigned encourages federal, state, and local governments to enact or promote policies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and accelerate the development of clean, economical and renewable energy resources and fuel-efficient technologies.

SPONSORED BY:
Lt. Governor Barbara Lawton
University of Wisconsn-Stevens Point Chancellor Linda Bunnell
Wisconsin League of Municipalities
Wisconsin Alliance of Cities
Midwest Renewable Energy Association
1,000 Friends of Wisconsin

(SUMMIT PARTICIPANT SIGNATURES TO BE ADDED SOON)