Virginia Cramer, virginia.cramer@sierraclub.org, 804-519-8449
OAKLAND, CA -- At least 21 people have died as wildfires continue to burn across northern California.
In response, Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune issued the following statement:
“Our hearts go out to all those who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods in the California fires. It is difficult to witness the toll mega-fires have taken on communities already, and to know that a changing climate is likely to increase unnaturally large and more dangerous fires across the country.
“Right now, the focus must be on the safety of families and those working to contain the blaze. However we cannot continue to put off much needed long-term solutions like funding to protect people and their homes, including programs to help communities work together to reduce fire risk. We also must address the reality of the climate crisis, because the costs of ignoring it are far too high.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3 million members and supporters. In addition to helping people from all backgrounds explore nature and our outdoor heritage, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.