Seattle’s Green New Deal was a winner and received global recognition at the C40 World Mayors Summit. The award decision was made by a panel of climate experts and former mayors. Seattle recently signed into law $6.5 Million in 2022 Green New Deal Opportunity Fund investments that will accelerate the City’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, build community resilience to climate change, and increase net zero affordable housing.
Experts looking on sees greatness in what Seattle is doing. Mayor Bruce Harrell accepted the award from C40 Cities and Bloomberg Philanthropies for the critical work Seattle is doing to advance community-driven, tangible climate action and justice through the Green New Deal. Seattle was nominated for “Building a Climate Movement” alongside other projects reflecting ambitious city-led efforts to support a diverse, inclusive, and equitable climate movement.
Seattle’s investments were the first set recommended by the City’s Green New Deal Oversight Board of 19 community representatives and are funded by proceeds from the JumpStart Seattle payroll expense tax legislation passed in 2020.
“We’re honored to receive this award and grateful for the tireless work of community leaders, advocates, and partners helping Seattle create a thriving and sustainable future,” said Mayor Harrell.
The mayor of Seattle also said, “While the issues of the day in our city demand action and attention, we also know the climate crisis – and its consequences – are not just a future challenge but are being clearly felt today. Our Green New Deal response is a new kind of community-centered effort – addressing longstanding inequities, creating good jobs, and investing in healthy communities as we reduce emissions and build resilience.”
There is more to be done to build on Seattle’s huge successes in this area. Oversight Board also provided recommendations toward the Mayor’s proposed 2023 budget, which includes over $20 million in new and climate-forward investments.
