In December 2019, Tacoma Washington, in coordination with the Puyallup Tribe, declared a climate emergency. We examine why they did it and how it has been a springboard for more aggressive climate goals and an increased focus on climate justice. We interview Patrick Babbitt from the City of Tacoma and Emma Keese from Citizens for a Healthy Bay which has led much of the community outreach for Tacoma.

Resources

• Tacoma Climate Emergency Resolution: Press Release and Resolution text (Resolution 40509 starting on page 28) 
• Puyallup Tribe Climate Emergency Resolution: Press Release and Resolution text
• Tacoma citizen groups
  • Environmental Justice Leaders Workgroup
  • Climate Action Ambassadors
• Citizens for a Healthy Bay (Emma Keese's org)
• Puget Sound Climate Preparedness Collaborative