When Seattle acts, the world listens. Shortly after our city passed an ordinance requiring new buildings to be all-electric, the entire State of Washington decided to follow suit, passing some of the strongest methane gas-eliminating energy codes in the nation. Now we have a chance to be a leader again by passing policies that would accelerate the electrification of existing buildings.
The City of Seattle is currently developing a policy to transition large commercial and multi-family buildings off of fossil fuels. The policy, known as a building emissions performance standard (BEPS), will set timelines for large buildings to transition off of polluting fossil fuels over the coming years.
At the same time, city leaders are working with Unite Here Local 8 and other labor organizations to develop the Living Hotels policy, to set strong environmental and social justice standards for new hotel construction in Seattle. SAFE Cities is working with local advocates to support this policy as well.
Together, these policies will mean Seattle's buildings are much safer and healthier, especially for workers and low income people, and also better for climate. But city leaders need to hear from you to get these ambitious policies passed.
Make your voice heard to Mayor Harrell, the Seattle City Council, and Office of Sustainability and Environment Director Farrell.
