In 2020, the Flagstaff City Council declared a climate emergency and set a goal to be carbon neutral by 2030. At the time, it felt like the community and its leaders were actively outlining measures to mitigate climate change.
Climate change is now in the news on a daily basis. His one flood in 500 years has become an annual event. Flagstaff is experiencing devastating wildfires and associated flooding. The housing crisis is exacerbated by second home buyers escaping the Phoenix heat wave. The climate is changing faster than scientists originally predicted. We need to make sweeping changes in all sectors.
A March 21, 2023, New York Times article read, “The world’s top scientists yesterday released a new report warning that the planet is preparing for serious damage from climate change.” I’m here. Another article, published in the Arizona Daily Sun the same day, quoted UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
Some may ask why we should care about this issue. Others may say that change requires too much effort and money. How much does a pipeline fire cost? How many acres of precious forest do you need to burn before you decide something needs to be done?
Strong action is needed to mitigate climate change. We are rapidly approaching a tipping point. Local leaders, the Mayor of Flagstaff, the Flagstaff City Council, the Coconino County Oversight Board, and private sector leaders alike need to step to the plate and face this challenge head-on with courage.
We have the potential to create our own little paradise on earth. Eventually, other people will see what we are doing and help spread it.
