Emily Pomilio, emily.pomilio@sierraclub.org, 480-286-0401
Brookline, MA--Today, in an effort led by community members, a Brookline town meeting approved legislation that would prohibit the installation of new fossil fuel construction. Through a bylaw, the city will see a 15% decrease of carbon emissions in buildings over the next 30 years. The town is the first city on the East Coast to pass a ban and is the only one that prohibits fossil fuels even in renovation projects. Over 15 cities in California have passed a similar ban.
Deb Pasternak, Director at the Sierra Club Massachusetts Chapter said the following about the news:
“We’ve heard over and over again that our time to act on climate is dwindling. Brookline has stepped up to the plate and banned new fossil fuel infrastructure to protect its constituents from fracked gas pollution, and to help in our fight against the climate crisis. The amazing thing about this effort is that it was spontaneously started by local citizens who wanted to take meaningful action on climate when Beacon Hill wouldn’t. What’s even more exciting is that other communities across the state are lining up to take similar action. We believe Brookline’s action will be an example to even more residents across the state as they pursue ways to act on climate in their municipalities.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with more than 3.5 million members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, 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.