It was hard to bite my tongue and not tell you about this one in advance, but the day is finally here!
To commemorate Earth Day 2009 (that’s actually tomorrow (Wednesday), people!), Mayor Adrian M. Fenty today announced the Green DC Agenda – a blueprint for a healthier, more sustainable city, including action items from agencies across the District Government.
“When it comes to the environment, we strive to set an example for cities across the country and around the world,” said Mayor Fenty. “The Green DC Agenda demonstrates how our agencies are prioritizing environmental stewardship, and will drive the District toward being as green as humanly possible.”
Through seven themes, you can see DC’s commitment to greening in: Homes, Schools, Neighborhoods and Community, Parks and Natural Areas, Transit and Mobility, Business, Jobs and Economic Development, and City and Government Operations.
“What we are building is really a government model of sustainability and accountability,” said George Hawkins, Director of the District Department of the Environment (DDOE). “We also have a Green Pledge, where District residents can commit to doing their part.”
Other big news at the plan unveiling… plans to increase the District’s tree canopy from 34.8 percent to 40 percent. As a first step toward the canopy goal, Mayor Fenty, Directors Hawkins and Klein, Chief Procurement Officer, David Gragan, and representatives of Casey Trees planted 9 trees of various species and sizes at River Terrace Elementary School in Ward Seven.
