Letters

It’s encouraging to see young people rally in support of actions to reverse the looming dangers of climate change [“Kids Lead ‘Earth Uprising,’ Eastern Edition, May 30]. Kudos, too, should go to Drawdown East End’s Dorothy Reilly, for aligning with Earth Uprising.

The kids are asking adults to give them a fighting chance to live, survive and thrive in a world destined to deny them that chance, unless steps are taken soon to reverse climate change.

Fortunately, the adults who govern our town are listening.

In 2013, Southampton Town government passed an addendum to the Comprehensive Plan known as “Sustainability 400+.” Those who have heard about Sustainability 400+ may not see it as a means to fight a changing climate, but it clearly states:

“Southampton is a signatory to the U.S. Conference of Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, which commits participating municipalities to strive to meet or beat the Kyoto Protocol targets in their communities. This section of the plan is aimed at fulfilling that commitment with strategies for reducing the town’s carbon footprint.”

Maybe it’s just another document that gathers dust? Nope. Southampton Town’s current government has taken this charge seriously. The Press’s limit on letter size precludes me from listing every action taken, but you should know this: “The town is participating in the New York State Climate Smart Communities (CSC) certification program to document the sustainability efforts made by the town. As of the spring of 2019, the town secured 181 points and was recognized by the state and awarded the designation of Bronze.”

So, kids, take note: You have an ally in Southampton Town government, and let’s help them achieve “Gold” status—they’re trying hard on your behalf. Get to know them and their deeds, and share their good works with your colleagues around the globe.

Mike AnthonyWesthamptonMr. Anthony is a former chairman of the Southampton Town Democratic Party—Ed.