County Joins Cities For Climate Protection; Makes Commitment To Combat Global Warming

Header--Montgomery County, Maryland. Press Releases

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Contact: Esther Bowring, 240-777-6530
James Caldwell, 240-777-7700

For Immediate Release: July 31, 2000

COUNTY JOINS CITIES FOR CLIMATE PROTECTION;
MAKES COMMITMENT TO COMBAT GLOBAL
WARMING

Montgomery County has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by joining the Cities for Climate Protection (CCP), an international campaign of local governments that addresses global environmental problems through local actions.

"Local governments play a key role in improving air quality," said Duncan. "Montgomery County pledges to continue innovations in smart growth, clean energy, and pollution prevention to improve our environment and support the climate protection campaign."

As a member of the CCP, Montgomery County will move forward during the next three years in conducting a greenhouse gas emissions inventory to determine the source and quantity of greenhouse gas emissions; in setting a greenhouse gas reduction target; and in developing a strategy for meeting the target through new and existing measures and policies.

"We are committed to reducing air pollution and making Montgomery County air clean for all residents," said Michael Subin. "This year, the County Council funded the purchase of additional natural gas powered Ride-On buses, and we will continue to develop programs to reduce polluting emissions in the county."

Examples of the specific types of projects the County might undertake are programs to: educate consumers about the purchase of "green" electric power; promote energy efficient building design in new construction; expand the use of alternatively fueled vehicles by the County government and businesses; and increase public awareness of energy efficiency practices in homes and businesses.

The CCP will provide the County with technical assistance, software for determining the sources and levels of greenhouse gas emissions, training, and opportunities to receive funding for local projects.

The CCP, administered by the non-profit International Council of Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI), is a voluntary program of more than 350 local governments worldwide, including 67 in the United States. Montgomery County joins local participants Prince George's County, Mount Rainier and Takoma Park. For more information, contact Ann Elsen at 240-777-7754.

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