Yesterday, NY State took a stand against fossil fuels by rejecting a LNG plant, and now Portland, Oregon issued a landmark resolution that prevents new fossil infrastructure.
The city council’s unanimous resolution – the toughest fossil fuel export policy in the US – directs staff to propose modified codes that prevent coal, gas or oil from being transported or stored within city limits or waterways.
This first-in-the-nation resolution offers a blueprint for other cities, states, and even nations to follow, says Mayor Charlie Hales.
While federal interstate commerce laws rule out an out-right ban, the city can reach the same goals through its codes.
Portland (and Seattle) – among the cleanest cities in the US – suddenly find themselves in the cross-hairs – the fossil industry wants to turn the Northwest into a major export hub for tar sands oil, coal and fracked gas.
Portland:
They are bombarded by proposals for export terminals, including liquified natural gas (LNG), all arriving via dangerous trains. It is one more attempt by the industry to find a way to grow and export, as Keystone and other pipelines are blocked.
People that live in Portland, Oregon have the delight of seeing Chinook salmon swim through the heart of the city, where Oregon’s two largest spring runs converge, thanks to decades of restoration work. The city is also committed to providing access to natural areas within a half-mile of every citizen. This is the quality of life people there want, not the damage that comes with fossil fuels.
Read our article about the city’s climate plan, Portland, Oregon: Doin’ It Right.
Here is Portland’s resolution:
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