After Climate Emergency Resolution, PASADENA 100 Says Group Cannot Reduce ‘Vigilance and Commitment’

PASADENA 100 is taking a victory lap for its work to bring carbon-free energy to Pasadena by 2030.

On Jan. 30, the Pasadena City Council unanimously approved the resolution for 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030. The resolution proclaims a climate crisis and directs Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) to create and implement the path toward this goal.

“While we are elated to celebrate this major milestone, there remains much effort to define and implement the plan to reach the finish line of 100% carbon-free energy by 2030. We cannot reduce our vigilance and commitment,” wrote Cynthia Cannady, chair of the PASADENA 100 in a statement.

PASADENA 100 gained traction in its advocacy for a unified response to the warnings of the United Nations Intercontinental Panel on Climate Change through multiple outreach campaigns that distributed fact sheets and sought supporters.

Volunteers canvassed door-to-door and at public events to gather over 1,300 signed postcards and to inform citizens of the proposed resolution. PASADENA 100 solicited and compiled letters from individuals and organizations, including from esteemed scientists and engineers, among them a Nobel Prize-winning Chemist. High school and college students, doctors and public health officials, and testimony on the moral imperative for this action from faith leaders—all added to the momentum that impelled action.

The Pasadena Unified School District unanimously adopted the resolution, along with the Pasadena City College Board of Trustees.

“We’re in a climate crisis, and the people of Pasadena have united in solidarity to demand action,” said Sam Berndt, an organizer with PASADENA 100 in a prepared statement. “For our kids, our families, our communities, and our species, as a city we stood together and decided to take the steps necessary to preserve our future. Now, let’s get to work.”