Native Planting Proposal
Today I received a letter from resident Andrew Wang requesting more native plantings in Cupertino and I agree, let's do this:
“Let's support a Cupertino-level ordinance that would require the use of native plants in city properties and commercial landscaping. This idea takes inspiration from the state-level AB 1573, which unfortunately didn't pass after being watered down by lobbyists. (https://www.cnps.org/biodiversity-initiatives/ab-1573-reaches-a-stopping-point-35744) Despite this setback, we can take inspiration from the text and implement it at the city level, so here I am.
Why we need this:
Native plants are a crucial part of combating climate change. Here are some alarming headlines:
- North America has lost 3 billion birds (NPR)
- Insect population has dropped by 75% (NYTimes)
- Humans are driving 1 million species to extinction (Nature)
Positive outcomes:
Native plants are the only plants that can support our birds, bees, and butterflies with food/shelter.
Native plants evolved to thrive in California's hot/dry summers and cold/wet winters. They are highly drought-tolerant and require zero maintenance, which means zero watering, zero pesticides, and zero fertilizers - this will save a lot of money and help the environment.
Plus, swapping out boring cookie-cutter lawns for colourful, vibrant greenery will make the city a more attractive place to live in, which probably enhances property values somewhere down the line.
I look forward to seeing how Cupertino continues to lead in green initiatives.” - Andrew Wang
###
I agree with Andrew, we need policies that help our pollinators, conserve water, and are better for our environment. With water restrictions on non-functional turf from AB 1572 needed to be complied with by January 1, 2027, a conversion to Calfornia native plants would be welcome. A taller tree canopy will also keep our environment cooler, and with native species, will support our local wildlife.
“Anyone who thinks they’re too small to make a difference has never met the honey bee.”
