As another round of record-breaking wildfires tear across our State, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate and blanketing the West Coast in hazardous smoke, it is clear that we are running out of time to stop the worst impacts of the climate crisis. For decades, we’ve known the deadly consequences of inaction. But even politicians who claim to believe in climate change have failed to take action at the speed and scale necessary. This is its own form of denial. But it’s not too late. We need our leaders to model bold and visionary climate action that centers justice for workers and communities, and we need it now. Please join us in urging Governor Gavin Newsom to take aggressive action to fight the climate crisis.
Last week, Governor Newsom said he was committed to take greater steps to address climate change. But so far, he has coasted on the actions of previous administrations, and has even issued increasing numbers of new drilling permits for oil and gas—the very fossil fuels that are causing our climate crisis. We need you to urge him to immediately take bold, concrete actions that will end our reliance on fossil fuels, and accelerate a just transition to a clean energy economy.
There are 5 concrete actions the Governor must take to protect our future:
- Stop issuing new oil and gas permits and begin a phase out of fossil fuel production
- Increase use of renewables to reach 100% clean energy by 2030
- Phase out dirty fuels in our homes by requiring all-electric new buildings by 2022
- Phase out polluting cars and trucks by moving to 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2030
- Appoint strong climate leaders to regulatory agencies such as the Air Resources Board to tackle climate change and environmental justice.
Each of these measures are key to fighting climate change while at the same time improving public health and creating millions of jobs. Moreover, Governor Newsom has the power to direct these actions today through Executive Order, without waiting for budgetary or legislative support. California needs this kind of bold and decisive climate action.
By committing to these actions, the Governor can show the world that in moments of crisis, Californians respond with visionary and transformative action. California’s leadership can model a path for the rest of the world, leading a generational response to the climate crisis and creating a safer, healthier, and more just planet. Please join us in emailing Governor Newsom or calling him at (866) 674-8185.
