Two hundred fifty years ago, Concord residents rose to the challenge of fighting for freedom. Our town was a national leader in the fight against a tyrant. Once again, Concord must rise to the challenge of fighting, but this time the fight is for our community and our planet.
One of the many crises exacerbated by the federal administration is climate disruption. In Massachusetts we are already seeing increased floods and droughts, vector-borne diseases, wildfires, and heat stress, which will persist for centuries. We can lessen these impacts if we join with the global community in lowering emissions and mitigate local damages by good planning.
Concord has made progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions cost-effectively and identifying the vulnerabilities of human and natural systems to the changing climate. Because climate change impacts are felt around the globe, we need to act with others. We must amplify our efforts to protect our own community and support other communities in their efforts.
The Climate Action Committee (CAC) urges the town leaders, businesses, and residents:
- To accelerate our efforts in reducing GHG emissions and preparing and adapting to the future.
- To let the federal administration know our commitment to fight against shortsighted actions that will hurt people, the environment, and our communities.
- To join local, regional, and global networks that are working together to address the climate emergency and push back against dangerous political forces.
This year, the CAC intends to organize or join a forum for local municipalities to share progress in managing climate change and develop a strategy to counter climate disinformation and destructive policies.
As residents of a community that once fired “the shot heard round the world,” we pledge to join the global fight for preservation of communities and future generations.
Bradley Hubbard-Nelson
Nashawtuc Street
