JANUARY 2018

Mayor Durkan at Wing Luke Museum Digital Storytelling Project

Hello Friends and Partners...
Happy New Year!  While 2017 was a challenging year for many reasons, I want to recognize and carry forward the good things that came out it as well. The power of concerned Americans coming together to make change continues to grow and is shining a light on topics--such as racial and gender equity--that were issues long before the presidential election. Momentum for climate action grew significantly last year and shows no sign of dropping off, despite the federal government's attempts to derail it. I'm thrilled to be serving under a Mayor who believes in science and is committed to Seattle's leadership role on climate. 
Jessica Finn Coven, Director
Seattle Office of Sustainability & Environment
KEY SUSTAINABILITY UPDATES
Rebate Extended - Up to $2000 for Oil Heated Homes!
Building on a successful promotion in 2017, Seattle is extending its Oil Furnace Replacement Program into 2018.  The program encourages homeowners to replace their oil furnace with an energy-efficient electric heat pump. The program continues through December 31, 2018 or until funds run out. More info on this incentive program here. 
Seattle Livability Open House on January 30
OSE will be participating in the open house events that will be launched on Jan 30. These open house events will provide folks the opportunity to learn more about the Mandatory Housing Affordability (MHA) maps and about the City's overall livability strategies. More information about these events here. 
Questions about the Sweetened Beverage Tax? 
On January 1, the Seattle Sweetened Beverage Tax went into effect. Consuming sugary drinks are linked to numerous serious health issues included diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. Taxing sugary drinks helps reduce consumption of sugar and revenues from the tax will help improve access to healthy food and fund education programs aimed at reducing disparities facing communities of color. More info here.  
OSE has a new Website! 
 We recently revamped our website with a focus on making it easier to navigate and find what you are looking for. Check it out and feel free send us any feedback you have!
Seattle Resilience Corner
The Seattle Globalist recently ran a three-part series featuring "Portraits of Resilience" showcasing how communities of color embrace and contribute to building resilience in Seattle. 

Seattle Globalist Portraits of Resilience:
Central District
University District

Find out more about our work building Seattle's Resilience Strategy here. 

The Office of Sustainability & Environment collaborates with a wide range of stakeholders to develop innovative environmental solutions that foster equitable, vibrant communities and shared prosperity.