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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
EARTH DAY 2017
WHEREAS, Earth Day, April 22, is observed around the world to promote a healthy, sustainable environment, address climate change and protect the Earth for future generations; and
WHEREAS, a clean environment is a foundation for a healthy population and a vital economy in Cook County; and
WHEREAS, Cook County has increased energy efficiency through measures such as updating building control systems and lights, and replacing and modernizing boilers and chillers; and
WHEREAS, the County has invested in renewable energy such as solar electric canopies at the Bridgeview courthouse, solar thermal walls at four Department of Transportation and Highways maintenance facilities to provide thermal energy and heat, and a geothermal heating and cooling system at the Skokie courthouse; and
WHEREAS, as part of promoting a clean environment, Cook County has set a goal of reducing its harmful greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent by the year 2050; and
WHEREAS, by pursuing energy efficiency and renewable energy, Cook County has exceeded its greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) reduction goals. GHGs from County buildings having decreased by 22 percent in five years since 2010, surpassing the target of a 10 percent reduction from 2010 through 2015; and
WHEREAS, the County’s reduction in utility use between 2010 and 2015 has saved taxpayers more than $5 million in utility costs and reduced the CO2 emissions equivalent to the electricity use of nearly 24,000 homes in one year; and
WHERAS, Cook County residents are surrounded by 70,000 acres of protected natural space that is preserved by Forest Preserves staff and many dedicated volunteers. These efforts protect native species and their homes. On Earth Day and every day, prairies, woodlands, wetlands and savanna are cared for though various restoration activities and people can learn about the local environment. On April 22 special activities include Earth Day Celebration and Preserves Clean up at Kickapoo Woods, a family friendly bird walk at Orland Grasslands, Restoration Work day at River Trail Nature Center, Earth Day Nature Play at Crabtree Nature Center; and
WHEREAS, Cook County is taking action to make all of its communities more sustainable and healthy through additional programs promoting shared community solar electric power; recycling and reusing building material from demolitions; promoting transit-oriented and cargo-oriented development as well as alternative modes of transportation to automobiles; assessing and cleaning up contaminated former industrial brownfields; removing harmful lead from homes; promoting energy efficiency for residents, businesses and local government facilities;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by President Toni Preckwinkle and the Cook County Board of Commissioners that April 22, 2017 is Earth Day in Cook County.
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