Submitted by Dan Bostwick
Almost a year ago, a group of Bedford citizens concerned about climate change started looking into what it would take for Bedford to become a Net Zero community. A Net Zero community offsets its annual greenhouse gas emissions with carbon-free energy production. We felt that this would be a concrete and meaningful way for Bedford to combat climate change. We were inspired by Cambridge, Somerville, Boston, Lexington, and Concord, communities that are currently implementing or developing Net Zero plans for themselves.
Article 2 Has Broad Support
Over the winter, we researched Net Zero initiatives in MA and around the country, meeting in living rooms every couple of weeks to share information and figure out our next steps. We engaged Bedford’s Energy Task Force, and with their support, pitched the idea to the Bedford Planning Board and Selectmen last spring. Over the summer, we teamed with Mothers Out Front to collect 200 signatures from enthusiastic Bedford voters to put an article funding the development of a Net Zero plan on the warrant for Special Town Meeting. Article 2, Bedford’s Energy Assessment and Action Plan, has the support of the Bedford Selectmen, Finance Committee, and Planning Board.
Article 2 in a Nutshell
At Special Town Meeting on Nov 6, Bedford voters will have the opportunity to approve funding for a Net Zero plan. The funds will be used to hire a consultant who will first collect data on the greenhouse gas emissions produced from the operation of all buildings in Bedford and then develop a plan to slash those emissions by 80% by the year 2050.
Article 2 Combats Climate Change
Article 2 aligns Bedford’s energy goals with those of the Massachusetts Global Warming Solutions Act, which mandates an 80% reduction in greenhouse gasses across the Commonwealth by 2050. This goal is consistent with the objective of the 2015 Paris Climate Accord to keep global temperature rise below catastrophic levels.
Article 2 Is Smart Planning
As well as addressing climate change, Article 2 is smart, forward-thinking planning for Bedford. By acting now, we can develop a thoughtful, deliberate approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and get out ahead of future state and federal regulation. It is always cheaper and more effective to act proactively than to react hastily when time is short. For more information about Article Two, see the answers to some frequently asked questions: FAQ
Getting to this point has been an exciting and educational experience. I have learned a lot about our municipal government and have observed firsthand the thoughtfulness and dedication of our town employees, volunteer committee members, and elected officials.
Please come to Special Town Meeting at 7:30 on Nov 6 and vote yes on Article 2 for Bedford’s future.
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Fantastic work Dan.