In 2022, Multnomah County’s Health Department released a significant report on the dangers of burning methane “natural” gas in our buildings. Then just last year, the County sued fossil fuel companies over the devastating 2021 heat dome.
The clear next step: Action by the County to move our buildings off fossil fuels.
The County Commissioners must direct staff to develop policies to transition homes and other buildings in the County to clean electric alternatives.
Buildings are the second largest – and growing – source of climate pollution in Oregon. We all know that methane leaks in buildings are dangerous. And in Multnomah County, homes and buildings also contribute significantly to nitrogen oxides, or NOx, a kind of pollution which is produced when methane gas is burned in our appliances. NOx exposure can cause asthma and other health problems.
SAFE Cities has been working in coalition with local advocates, calling on the County and other local governments to protect people from these different impacts of methane gas.
This is a critical time for your voice so Commissioners take action without delay.
Send your message now!