Richmond, Hayward are Green Cities

By Katherine Tam
Contra Costa Times
Posted: 03/01/2010 01:09:16 PM PST
Updated: 03/01/2010 01:09:16 PM PST

Richmond and Hayward are now members of a coalition of high-performing green cities lauded for taking steps to protect the environment.
The two cities became members of Green Cities California on Monday.
Richmond is one of the first cities in the country to develop an energy and climate change element in its general plan update. The chapter deals with energy efficiency, renewable energy, sustainable business development and reduction of climate change impacts.
Hayward adopted a climate action plan and established creative financing for energy efficiency and renewable energy.
To win admission into the GCC, cities must adopt sustainability plans, the U.N. Urban Environmental Accords and the Conference of Mayors climate protection agreement. The coalition's initiatives include requiring that all paper purchased for city operations be post-consumer recycled paper and banning the purchase of bottled water with city funds.

Katherine Tam covers Richmond. Follow her at Twitter.com/katherinetam.