RES-2014-073 Resolution of Declaration on Climate Change

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��18 ail RES-2014-073 REVISED Attachments—Item 4-b November 18,2014 BOCC Meeting ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS RESOLUTION OF DECLARATION ON CLIMATE CHANGE WHEREAS, the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, representing over 2,500 climate scientists and twenty years of research, has concluded that global warming caused by human emission of greenhouse gases is among the most significant problems facing the world today; and WHEREAS, projected impacts of global warming will likely include changing patterns of habitats for disease-carrying insects; changes in rain and snowfall patterns, affecting water supplies, agriculture, and the frequency of flooding; changes in natural habitats that will eliminate some species and introduce new ones; and WHEREAS, state, regional and local governments throughout the United States are adopting emission reduction targets and programs and that this leadership is bipartisan and coming from governors, county officials, and mayors alike; and WHEREAS, many counties throughout the nation, large and small, are reducing the production of global warming pollutants through programs that provide economic and quality of life benefits, such as reduced energy bills, green space preservation, air quality improvements, reduced traffic congestion, improved transportation choices, and economic development and job creation through energy conservation/new energy technologies; and WHEREAS, Orange County is undertaking policies, programs and activities to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and WHEREAS, these policies, programs and activities save energy and money, conserve natural resources, and promote sustainable land use and transportation planning in the community; and WHEREAS, Orange County government will serve as a model for the community by taking appropriate actions, including those listed in the attachment to this resolution; and WHEREAS, cities and counties statewide are leading by example by adopting innovative sustainability programs and policies, including working with community residents, business groups and others; and WHEREAS, Orange County will recommend actions that Orange County residents and businesses can take, including the ten actions listed in the attachment to this resolution; and WHEREAS, Orange County wishes to expand these activities, share its experiences with other communities, and be recognized for its accomplishments; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Orange County Board of Commissioners does hereby recognize the critical nature of global warming and climate change, and cognizant of the actions being taken by local, state, and federal governments and other