The power of activating climate voters with Grand Rapids Climate Coalition(08-10-24)

WYCE's Community Connection (*conversations concerning issues of importance in West Michigan)

On this week's episode episode, WYCE Station Manager Phil Tower speaks with Janet Zahn, co-chair, of Grand Rapids Climate Coalition.

The Grand Rapids Climate Coalition is a growing alliance of individuals, community groups, neighborhood associations, nonprofits, faith groups, businesses, and educational institutions.

The Grand Rapids Climate Coalition's focus is mobilizing collective power to ensure equitable access to a clean, healthy, just, and livable community and climate.

Janet reminded us that climate change impacts everyone and almost everything: food, health care, air and water quality, transportation, housing, jobs, and the economy.

Climate change can make groceries, utilities, and housing cost more and force out our lower-income neighbors as rich folks flee here from climate disaster locations.

Much of this is already happening in the United States. It will happen more and more in Michigan. All of us will be affected; many of us already are.

GR Climate Coalition's Top 5 Priorities

Right now, our work is centered on these priorities:

1) Implement a Climate Voter Campaign.

2) Advocate for increased recycling and municipal composting. ​

3) Mobilize around Community Solar Legislation.

4) Promote electrification of homes through IRA funding.

5) Support efforts to influence food policy and improve green transportation.

Online: Grand Rapids Climate Coalition