“The Executive is meeting the challenge of our changing environment with programs in the present that will have a significant impact on the future,” said Phillips. “King County is creating a blueprint that jurisdictions not only in Washington, but throughout the world, can follow to protect air quality and slow global warming.”

The Executive announced today that he is building on the county’s efforts to mitigate the negative climate impacts of fossil fuel use. Through four Executive Orders, Sims has directed county departments to increase their use of ‘green’ power and biodiesel, turn more wastewater and garbage gas into electricity and double the number of acres preserved in forest and open space.

“This is more than a plan to reduce the use of fossil fuels, it’s the first step in a discussion we must have about land use planning,” said Phillips. “We must start talking about how we can develop communities in a way that not only reduces sprawl, but cuts down dependence on cars. We must talk about conserving forest land not only to preserve natural habitat but to reduce air pollution.”

Phillips is looking forward to working on future proposals that will be part of the “Acting Locally” initiative. “We live in a part of the world that is already seeing the impact of global warming,” said Phillips. “If we want our children and their children to enjoy the beauty of this region and have clean air to breathe, we cannot wait to combat this problem.”