GASP, residents, and fellow advocates spoke out at a public hearing last week to provide input on the formulation of an Allegheny County Climate Action Plan.
If you missed it, we highly recommend this write up from our friends at Public Source.
Our Executive Director Patrick Campbell was among those who testified at the hearing. Here’s what he said:
Good evening, I’m Patrick Campbell, the executive director of the Group Against Smog & Pollution located here in Pittsburgh since 1969.
Allegheny County urgently needs to adopt a Climate Action Plan to safeguard public health, economic stability, and environmental resilience.
As the impacts of climate change intensify, our region is increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events like flooding, landslides, heatwaves, and poor air quality —issues that already strain our infrastructure and affect the health and well-being of our residents, particularly vulnerable populations like children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
A comprehensive Climate Action Plan would provide a roadmap to mitigate these risks while positioning the county for long-term sustainability.
Adopting such a plan is not only about reducing emissions but also about fostering economic growth and resilience. Investments in clean energy, energy efficiency, and green infrastructure create jobs, attract businesses, and reduce long-term operational costs.
By engaging with the community and supporting local innovation in renewable energy and sustainable practices, Allegheny County can become a leader in the green economy, benefiting both urban and rural communities.
Additionally, a Plan will ensure that public funds are used more efficiently by prioritizing sustainability in public works and transportation projects, reducing energy consumption, and promoting climate-smart building codes.
Public health will also benefit significantly from the adoption of this plan. Climate change exacerbates air pollution, particularly in Allegheny County, which already struggles with some of the worst air quality in the nation. An effective Climate Action Plan would target reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and co-pollutants, improving air quality and reducing the incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
A Climate Action Plan is an environmental necessity and a critical strategy for enhancing public health, economic growth, and social equity. Allegheny County must take proactive steps now to build a future that is sustainable, healthy, and prosperous for all residents.
Thank you.
While the hearing may be over, the public comment period is not. Those wishing to weigh in have until Wednesday to do so. Here’s what you need to know to do just that.