"I commend the Puyallup Tribal Council for declaring a climate emergency, committing to transition to a carbon neutral economy by 2050 and achieve emissions reductions required by the Paris Climate Agreement. Chairman Bean and the entire Council are standing up to the climate crisis and establishing this vision for the future of their community and tribal youth.
"The Puyallup Tribe of Indians and other tribal communities are on the front lines of this fight, and see the impacts of climate change in their communities every day. And, as the original stewards of these lands, tribal communities know what is at risk.
"The Council’s resolution acknowledges the clear threat of climate change to public health and the environment, the urgent need to act, and the risk that flooding caused by climate change presents to tribal facilities, homes, and businesses.
"By committing to support regional and statewide Clean Fuels Standards, adopt sustainable procurement strategies, and build cleaner and smarter infrastructure in their community, the Puyallup Tribe is stating, loud and clear, that waiting to act is not an option.
"The City of Tacoma also declared a climate emergency yesterday with a strong focus on environmental justice and equity, in effect, joining together to support our mutual interests to combat climate change.
"I have consistently considered climate change a crisis. I have consistently pushed our state Legislature to adopt policies that reduce greenhouse gases. And, I continue the fight to establish a cap on statewide emissions, and transition the state’s fleets, buildings and procurement policies to be more efficient and environmentally sustainable. But that is not enough.
"Climate science shows we need to do more, faster. We cannot sit idly by as our glaciers melt, our forests burn and our salmon die. The Puyallup Tribe and City of Tacoma's action this week acknowledges the latest climate science and commits to real actions toward progress. This is the kind of leadership we need all communities across our state to take, if we’re going to have any hope of avoiding the worst impacts of climate change."