Salt Lake City Statement on Historic COP21 Agreement

Update:  RadioActive producer Lara Jones visits with Mayor Becker on  KRCL 90.9FM about what he saw at the COP21 climate conference, and specifically, the role American cities will play in addressing climate change.  Listen here!

Mayor Becker Releases Statement following COP21 Agreement 

Mayor Becker in Paris

“On Saturday, the world came together to agree on an accountable, transparent approach to address climate change. I commend President Obama and other leaders for achieving this historic, milestone accord that provides a path to success. For me, it was an honor and a privilege to be a part of this widely collaborative and inclusive process.

Cities have played a prominent role leading up to the Paris talks and will be needed even more as we implement the goals established in the COP21 agreement. U.S. communities had the largest delegation among the 400 cities participating in Paris. Through the Compact of Mayors, a growing number of mayors and our partners established goals, plans and actions in an accountable, transparent process that will allow us to show everyone how we are going to achieve success in reducing our carbon emissions.

Now, we must take the steps with our public and private partners to dramatically decrease carbon emissions through comprehensive actions. Clean, affordable energy in our community development and transportation systems are at the heart of a successful future. Cities are the key to giving our kids the safe, healthy environment they deserve.”