Our Ears are Burning…

We're pleased to report that Durham Mayor Bill Bell acknowledged the possible relationship of climate change to North Carolina's ongoing drought in his State of the City address this week. But we're even happier to note that Mayor Bell sees Durham governments' pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent by 2030 -- as part of their ongoing Cool Cities initiatives -- as a way to tackle the water shortage situation.

"We must do everything we can to alert our citizens and help them to understand their role in helping lower greenhouse gas emissions," Bell said. "We must lead by example."

Cool Cities recognize that the environmental and economic impacts of their initiatives can be far reaching -- taking these steps now can help avert problems down the road. And, when governments show leadership, others are sure to follow.

Meantime, Raleigh keeps moving forward with Mayor Meeker's “green city” initiatives, with an emphasis on energy efficiency. Raleigh was also recognized by the Sierra Club as a Cool City.