for more detail on an issue, please click on the issue above.

WE NEED CLEAN AIR

WE NEED CLEAN WATER

 

Air: we have a lot of work to do. Oregon DEQ has failed to protect Portland's air, and we should consider a regional air quality overseeing body.

 

Water: we have a lot of work to do. We want to help insure that the superfund site in the Willamette is cleaned up per the approved EPA plan.

 

Portland used to be a national leader in Environment, let's get back to this leadership position.

 

AIR

Portland's air looks pretty clean compared to many other US cities that have visible smog. But a lot of toxics in our air are not as visible. Portland's air is making people sick. We got a wake up call in early 2016, with emissions from 2 glass factories. There are many more toxic hotspots that we need to address. It's time to effectively improve our air quality with or without DEQ.

 

From Neighbors for Clean AIr: "The recent news that the air in parts of Southeast and North Portland contains alarming levels of cadmium and arsenic—elements known to cause cancer—is clear proof that Oregon's air quality regulations are not working.

 

There is plenty of evidence that this shocking air pollution in Portland is not an isolated case:

 

Oregon has the third largest population at risk of excess cancer due to air pollution behind only California & New York. (1)

 

117 Oregon schools fall in the worst 10% nationally for exposure to industrial pollution.

 

Diesel particulate matter (from trucks, construction equipment and rail yards) is responsible for approximately 460 premature deaths a year in Oregon. That's more than those who die from homicide and drunk driving, combined." (2)

 

WATER

Clean water is essential for Portland's quality of life. We've made progress, but we need to do more.

 

NATURAL AREAS

Our natural areas define us and are a huge part of our quality of life.

 

Portland. more parks, improve tree canopy, maintain wildlife preserves.

 

Columbia River Gorge. The Gorge is a national natural wonder and we are so lucky to have it so close to us. As we get larger, there will be constant pressures that could diminish the quality of the place. Let's work together to insure that the Gorge keeps with the spirit of the National Scenic designation. Thank you Friends of the Columbia Gorge.

 

BUILDINGS

1. More Eco Roofs

2. More Solar

3. More Net Zero

4. Reduce nightime lighting

 

BROWNFIELDS

Intensify Brownfield cleanup and reuse - let's put density on some of these sites.