Combating Climate Change in New Britain – Setting the Agenda for the New Mayor and City Council

Recent mayoral campaign focused on issues of affordable housing, taxes, investing in the neighborhoods, and more. One aspect that was rather neglected is what New Britain might do to combat global warming and climate change. One aspect related to global warming that was mentioned in the campaign was the flooding on Allen Street. Global warming results in warmer air that holds more moisture causing heavier downpours. Yes, Allen Street, as the rest of New Britain’s stormwater system, needs larger pipe system but we can’t stop there. We know that reducing flooding damage requires multi-prong solutions including increasing permeable surface to allow more water to drain into the ground, planting more trees which intercept rainfall and absorb water while preventing soil erosion. Planting more trees would also reduce urban heat. As New Britain residents are experiencing longer and hotter summers and increasing energy utility cost while its tree canopy has been dwindling, planting trees along city roads and streets and in city parks would help reduce the temperature and improve air quality.

In addition, mayor Stewart’s administration has done little to reduce its own vehicle and equipment emission – a major source of pollution and carbon emission. Despite the increasing availability of electric vehicles and outdoor power equipment it has continuously purchased gas guzzlers for the police and Public Works . It’s time for the city of New Britain to prepare a plan to reduce emission of its own fleet and equipment.

On the larger picture of combating climate change, the new mayor and city council could refer to the Climate Change Emergency declaration passed by the New Britain City Council in 2019. The declaration provides a helpful blueprint based on testimonies from experts for the steps the city needs to take to reduce its carbon emission footprint, combat flooding and other climate disasters, and enhance city’s resiliency.

https://newbritainindependent.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/ClimateResolution_1-23-2019.pdf