April 28, 2025
The Cleveland Environmental Advocacy Coalition
In Cleveland, we know that real change starts at the local level
The Cleveland Environmental Advocacy Coalition was formed prior to the 2021 Cleveland Municipal elections. We knew that whoever the new Mayor would be, climate action should be a key priority for their administration. Together, we developed a policy platform that drives our advocacy work at the local level. Our Cleveland Comprehensive Policy Platform serves as a roadmap for bold, equitable climate action—it outlines key solutions to address environmental justice, energy, air quality, transportation, water, and parks. Together, we have advocated for important policy wins and program investments including the passage of Cleveland’s updated Complete and Green Streets Ordinance, strengthening of programs around lead abatement, and 100% renewable energy through the city’s updated electric aggregation program. The Cleveland Platform has also become a guiding document referenced by environmental organizations and city officials for enacting Cleveland’s policy priorities. Mayor Bibb and his team explicitly stated that the Cleveland Platform is his administration’s guide when it comes to addressing the environmental policy needs of the community.
These aren’t abstract policies—they are pragmatic strategies to reduce pollution in our neighborhoods, create good-paying clean energy jobs, and ensure every resident can access a healthy environment. By bringing together environmental leaders and grassroots advocates, we are working on the front lines to push for policies that protect our air and water, expand green spaces, and ensure a just transition to clean energy.
Leading locally means recognizing that Cleveland’s environmental challenges are deeply connected to our social and economic realities. Communities that have been historically overlooked are often hit first and hardest by climate change. That’s why our coalition prioritizes advocacy that emphasizes social and economic equity, so sustainability benefits all Clevelanders.
Our work proves that when communities come together, we build strength—not just in numbers, but in impact. By mobilizing residents, engaging decision-makers, and holding our leaders accountable, we are shaping Cleveland’s future—one where climate action is a priority and our city is a model for resilience and sustainability.
