In Dec 2021, the OR Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) passed the Climate Protection Program (CPP) — an ambitious plan that requires 50% emissions reductions in Oregon’s largest polluting facilities by 2035, provides direct economic and environmental benefits to frontline communities, and more. Frontline communities and other stakeholders provided strong community input on the CPP when it was initially passed. But during the rule-making process to implement the plan, community-based and environmental justice groups have not been included, and the rules that the DEQ are proposing for the CPP are missing key climate justice elements.

Join us in reminding the DEQ that Oregonians care about environmental and climate justice. Write a comment telling DEQ we want the CPP to focus on the original goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 50%, providing meaningful investments to benefit Oregonians, and holding big polluters accountable.

The Portland Clean Energy Fund (PCEF) was a huge, BIPOC-led win for climate justice here in Portland. Through its Climate Investment Plan (CIP), PCEF will invest $750 million over five years in green jobs and healthy homes for all residents of Portland, especially those who are on the frontlines of the climate crisis, racism, and displacement. The CIP has been developed through extensive community engagement led by Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities (BIPOC).

Now, all Portlanders need to come together again to make sure we protect this critical fund! On Wednesday, Sept 20, from 3-5pm — Portland City Council has a hearing on PCEF’s Climate Justice Plan. Join us in attending the hearing to show City Council that the plan has strong community support.