Climate action updates, EPA deregulation, new gardens, & more

Check out the latest sustainability news:

Office of Sustainability releases 2025 Climate Action Update. OSS released its first Climate Action Playbook in 2021. The 2025 Climate Action Update highlights citywide achievements in sustainability since 2021, including: the Streetlight Improvement Project, converting city lights to energy-efficient LEDs; the Adams Solar Project to increase renewable energy sources; and the Plastic Bag Ban.

Philly advocates speak out against EPA deregulation. On Monday, roughly two dozen public officials and advocates gathered in LOVE Park to denounce the Trump administration’s continual push to weaken the EPA. Speakers – who voiced concerns for Philadelphia’s pollution levels – included representatives from the city’s Office of Sustainability, Clean Air Council, and Senator Nikil Saval. WHYY

City Council approves budget for 2026. Last week, City Council voted to approve Mayor Parker’s “One Philly 2.0” FY 2026 budget. The budget includes $800 million for Parker’s H.O.M.E. Initiative, $30 million towards Vision Zero, and $853 million for Clean and Green programs. 

A new garden is coming to Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Planting has begun on the new Calder Gardens on the Parkway. The gardens celebrate 20th-century artist and sculptor, Andrew Calder, and will be a continuously unfolding installation of his work. The Philadelphia Inquirer

City Kicks off Summer Meals Programming at Vare Recreation Center. The Office of Children and Families will offer free meals to people ages 18 and under this summer through its annual Summer Meals program. The program started with a kick-off event on Wednesday at Vare Recreation Center, featuring games, music, and food.

Cover photo: Beau Monde Originals