Global warming is not something that just affects the polar bears and the glaciers.  Here in Oregon, we are experiencing reduced snow pack in the Cascades, higher temperatures and more wildfires - all as a result of climate change.  Those trends are expected to continue; especially if we follow the path we've been traveling until now.  Working together we have solved other problems in the past and I am optimistic that we know how to tackle global warming.

According to calculations by the University of Oregon Climate Leadership Initiative, the average Oregonian is responsible for 13.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions per year.  We can do our part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  It is up to each and every one of us to make a commitment to reduce our contribution to climate change.

The City of Eugene has undertaken a number of programs to reduce greenhouse gases.  For example, solar hot water heaters are used at Amazon Pool, hybrid and biodiesel-fueled vehicles are being added to the City’s fleet and wind power is being purchased from EWEB to provide energy for City facilities.  For more information, check out the City's web site at:  www.eugene-or.gov/sustainability.

The City Council, City organization, and I have made sustainability a primary focus for the next few years.  A Sustainability Commission has been established as an advisory group to the City Council.  The commission, along with the Sustainability Manager, will guide our continuing efforts. 

In the meantime, I'm issuing a challenge to members of the Eugene community to strive to reduce personal greenhouse gas emissions right now. Community volunteers are partnering with me on this challenge to provide tools and support for anyone willing to step up to the plate.   

Visit www.sustaineugene.com to join the challenge and to access detailed information you can use to reduce your emissions with little or no cost.  Many will actually save you money by reducing your energy bills or your transportation costs. This initiative offers an exciting opportunity to improve our environment, save money and take pride in our community accomplishments.  All the Eugene efforts will be added up so we will know as a community how well we are doing to help mitigate climate change.