Richmond, Va. – Richmond City Councilmember and Mayoral Candidate Andreas Addison released the following statement on Earth Day in support of reaching the city’s climate action goals:

“Thanks to the work of many environmental organizations and advocates, and our Office of Sustainability, Richmond is making progress in becoming a healthy and climate-resilient city. The collaborative nature of how we work across the region is being recognized nationally, and securing important federal funding to mitigate climate impacts, especially in our frontline communities.

“But, we are only 12% of the way there.

“When I voted to pass the Climate and Ecological Emergency Resolution and the RVAgreen 2050 Climate Equity Action Plan, it was with the full intention of investing in projects and City programs that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ensure we build climate-resilient communities for Richmonders. Without funding and action, these are only hollow victories to hang our hat on.

“That’s why I’m proud to support Ord. 2024-073 to allocate funding to neighborhood sustainability projects across our city, including grants for tree plantings, community gardening, and parks enhancements.

“In a city where residents in formerly redlined neighborhoods are experiencing extreme heat at a greater rate than others, and we have neighbors who cannot access a park or a playground with a 10-minute walk, we need to continue implementing RVAgreen 2050 objectives to achieve citywide goals the community deserves. This includes prioritizing accessible and clean public transportation, incentivizing green building standards, enhancing connectivity through trails and streetscapes, reducing waste, and incorporating sustainability into our decision-making at City Hall. And, yes, we need to divest from fossil fuels.

“Environmental justice requires we create an economy and workforce with good-paying, quality green jobs. Our health will improve, too, with less pollution, more energy-efficient housing, and greater access to nutritious food. The way we grow and modernize as a city – from school facilities, public libraries, community centers, and multi-family housing – means implementing equitable solutions that will protect people and improve their quality of life.”

###

About Andreas Addison

Andreas Addison is a public servant, small business owner, and educator serving the Richmond community for over 15 years. Addison represents the 1st District on Richmond City Council, with a proven track record of fighting for affordable housing, greater connectivity in the region, and investments for greater city services. He is the owner of Pure Fitness RVA in Scott’s Addition and is an adjunct professor at UVA in the School of Public Policy. A strong advocate for thriving communities, Addison is committed to a socially equitable, environmentally sustainable, and prosperous Richmond for working families. Addison married his wife, Allison, in 2023, and the couple resides in the Museum District. Join the movement at andreasaddison.com.