Commentary: Wednesday evening, Albuquerque city council voted 6-0 in favor of passing resolution R-19-187 “Declaring a Climate Emergency”. Numerous citizens gave testimony to their concerns about the growing climate crisis and the federal government’s inaction concerning the issue. Residents of all ages showed up in support of declaring a climate emergency, particularly a younger cohort who presented a powerful argument for action to secure a sustainable future.
11 year old, Alex Hanna, a student at Manzano Day School, said, “You might not see it at first but everything contributes to climate change--how we drive, how we grow our food, how we design buildings. These all need to change and this action plan can help us get there. I say that this should not just be an action plan, it should be our new reality.”
UNM Student Josh Parks said “Climate changes has become such a pressing issue that I find myself frequently questioning whether or not it is even worthwhile to finish college. It seems that every moment I spend sitting in a classroom and not fighting for climate action, is precious time wasted.”
While activists will continue to push for new efforts to combat the crisis, the resolution to declare a climate emergency is the first step toward a sustainable future.
Santa Fe County Passed a similar resolution last week. And Taos County passed an Emergency last night.
The passage of Climate Emergency Declarations comes in the days before tomorrow's International Youth Climate Strike with New Mexico events in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Farmington, Las Cruces, Silver City.