Josh Cornfield, Metro Philadelphia
CENTER CITY. The young canvassers were headed out on their daily journey to convince people of the need to press for better environmental regulations, a door-knocking adventure that takes them to both friend and foes of “green” issues.
But first, they got a visit from someone they readily assume will be a friend.
The city’s likely next mayor — Democratic nominee Michael Nutter — spoke to the group of 20-something volunteers from PennEnvironment, laying out his plans to attempt to plant more trees, boost recycling and get filters on SEPTA’s diesel buses.
“It’s really refreshing and really exciting at the same time,” said Moira Bieg, 25. “It’s really something to look forward to and it gives us the opportunity to make the changes that the city needs.”
Nutter said that aside from the “sustainability cabinet” he plans, he would also make sure that every city agency works toward reaching a set of environmental benchmarks. He would also push for all buildings to become Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certified.
“I think compared to a lot of big cities, Philadelphia probably hasn’t made the leaps and bounds to be seen as a leader on environmental issues,” said David Masur, director of PennEnvironment. “Other cities are willing to take risks to get out front.”
According to Bieg, the city and agencies like PennEnvironment need to work toward educating the public about environmentalism. She said city government has to show more of a willingness to cooperate with green agencies and work toward compromises.
