Mayor Greg Nickels says more than 900 mayors have signed the U.S. Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, a significant milestone in the national campaign of cities to reduce global warming.

"Our determination to reduce carbon emissions will open new opportunities for clean energy and green jobs," said Nickels, who launched the effort three years ago. "This milestone is a testament to the power of an idea: that cities can and will make a difference in protecting our planet."

The milestone of 900 mayors signing the agreement comes as President-elect Barack Obama issued a major policy statement on global warming. "For years, we have been asking for a strong federal partner to reduce carbon emissions," said Nickels. "Cities have rolled up their sleeves and now we are looking forward to working with the new administration and the 111th Congress to do the same."