On April 22, the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, Los Angeles City Councilman Paul Koretz, 5th District, introduced legislation to officially make essential all city services related to climate emissions reductions, particularly those provided by the Office of Climate Emergency Mobilization.

The motion is necessary as plans are being examined for city services to be cut and workers furloughed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which is negatively impacting the economy and the city’s budget.

The motion references information from the World Meteorological Organization which stated that although scientists expect emissions to drop by 5% in 2020, stay-at-home orders are having little impact upon climate disruption.

“It is essential that we do everything in our power to address the health and economic threats of COVID-19,” Koretz said. “My concern is that we not get distracted, even for a moment, from the even larger, more dangerous and more insidious threats of severe climate disruption and mass extinctions. We must not pause the important efforts we have been working on for years, including our Office of Climate Emergency Mobilization.”

Some cities are taking the opportunity to address climate concerns as they reopen, Koretz said. Milan, Italy, has announced a plan to reduce automobile traffic and better support local stores and restaurants. Working from home options are also being touted as successful ways to reduce pollution and increase quality of life.

For information, visit councilmemberpaulkoretz.com.