Michael V. O'Brien
City Manager
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Climate Action Plan
Climate change is upon us and its effects are already apparent throughout the world. The scope and magnitude of the potential changes to our environment present a clear danger to our way of life and continued economic development worldwide. Our reliance on fossil fuels has left a legacy of a fundamentally altered planet. Fortunately, the changes to our climate thus far have not yet affected our way of life. However, within a generation we may face changes that will cause great dislocation, strife and energy shortages as the world's economic development demands more from an oil exploration and production system that has already peaked.
It is within this context that we must decide how we, the City of Worcester, will contribute to addressing this challenge.
Reducing our greenhouse gas emissions is within our reach. We can reduce the pollution that causes global warming by using currently available technologies that also enhance economic development. In our schools, homes and places of work, we can implement energy efficiency measures, use renewable energy, and increase waste recycling to pollute less and save money. These measures are not in conflict with economic development; instead, they are the basis on which our future economic evelopment and quality of life will rely.
Our actions can be an example to others, inspiring responsible energy and resource consumption. As cities around the world make similar commitments, we can collaborate with each other to reduce climate change, improve energy security and improve our economic competitiveness. We all must work together to become more sustainable. By taking part in this global effort we can succeed. Please join me in implementing this plan and achieving a more sustainable Worcester, and help us become "The GREEN heart of the Commonwealth!"
Michael V. O'Brien
City Manager
