America’s Mayors Roll Up Sleeves at Seattle Climate Summit

SEATTLE - America’s mayors will take center stage in the effort to stop global warming as they gather in Seattle Nov. 1 & 2 for an unprecedented summit to spur local and federal action on climate change.

The two-day event will feature keynote addresses by former President Bill Clinton, and mayors Michael Bloomberg of New York and Antonio Villaraigosa of Los Angeles as well as other national and international leaders in the effort to prevent climate change. The U.S. House Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming will also hold a special hearing with mayors during the summit.

Hosted by the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the Seattle summit will be the largest-ever meeting of American mayors devoted solely to climate protection. More than 100 mayors from across the country representing millions of Americans will discuss the impact of climate change on their communities and the steps cities are taking to reduce greenhouse gas pollution.

Media planning to attend are highly encouraged to register now since space is limited. To register for the summit, please go to: http://usmayors.org/climateprotection/press_registration.asp

The mayors will participate in a wide range of sessions designed to accelerate local action on global warming. The summit will include real-world solutions for:
• Creating jobs and growing a green economy
• Designing a climate-friendly transportation system
• Reducing sprawl through smart growth
• Building a green city at home and work

The summit presents an opportunity to understand how local governments are leading the way on climate protection in the United States, and how one city in particular - Seattle - is taking bold steps to create solutions in homes, at work and on the road.

Seattle is powered by the first utility in the nation to emit zero net greenhouse gasses. It is investing millions of dollars to expand rail, bus and bike networks and working to reduce sprawl through innovative land use policies. Seattle is also partnering with businesses to foster a new “green” economy and create jobs in areas such as alternative fuels and construction.