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42 <br /> <br />The city’s <br />environment is <br />vulnerable to the <br />impacts of urban <br />development, <br />particularly air and <br />water pollution. <br />Air quality in the <br />region has <br />improved <br />significantly in the <br />last 30 years, but <br />transportation <br />emissions still <br />result in ozone and <br />particulate levels <br />that exceed state <br />and federal <br />standards. Burning of fossil fuels—whether through motor vehicles, industry, or <br />energy generation—also generates greenhouse gases, which contribute to global <br />climate change. The General Plan include policies and actions to improve air quality <br />and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, primarily by reducing dependence on motor <br />vehicles, shifting to renewable energy, and using energy more efficiently. <br />Like air quality, water quality has improved as a result of stronger controls over point <br />sources such as wastewater treatment plants and heavy industry. Significant <br />advances have also been made in the control of urban runoff from streets, parking <br />lots, and yards. However, storm events, litter, improper disposal of household <br />products, and other human activities still pose a threat to the health of the Bay and its <br />tributaries. The General Plan provides a framework for the City’s storm water <br />management and water quality programs, including trash reduction, containment <br />and pre-treatment of runoff, reduced pesticide use, and greater public education on <br />environmental quality. <br />San Leandro’s environment also creates a number of natural hazards. The Hayward <br />Fault, considered by some seismologists to be the most dangerous hazard in the Bay <br />Area, traverses the eastern edge of the city. Ground shaking and liquefaction in a <br />major earthquake could cause serious damage and injury. Even in the absence of an <br />earthquake, some of the city’s steep hillsides are prone to landslides and erosion. <br />Other parts of the city are subject to shallow flooding. Man-made hazards, such as <br />noise from airplanes, trains, and trucks, also exist in the city. <br />Climate change also poses a long-term hazard. During the next century, the western <br />shore of San Leandro will be affected by rising sea level, with increased frequency of <br />flooding and higher water levels in wetlands and tidal areas. The City will need to <br />adapt to this reality, making its shoreline more resilient while also regulating the <br />81