October 24 is International Day of Climate Action / 350.org

This post is not about painting, it's about an organization -- 350.org -- that is advocating reduction of atmospheric C02 to 350 ppm -- a "magic number" that scientists believe (see their website for references) will allow the planet to continue functioning as we have experienced it.

I was brought to tears listening to an interview with the president of the Maldives, Mohammed Nasheed (Maldives government dives for climate change). I am not very hopeful about Copenhagen, but feel more hopeful that the Obama Administration will do a bit better than past administrations. I feel especially discouraged talking to neighbors where I live -- the dialogue is all about how "the market" will take care of this and how it's not their fault if certain people live in unsustainable geographic areas. We are all trapped in this particular energy system and it's really difficult for people to think their way out of it -- especially since the solution really requires quick action on a much larger scale than all of us walking a little bit more and turning down our thermostat.

So, here's a revision of e-mail I received from 350.org:

---
You're reading this post because I thought you would want to join in something important to solve the climate crisis.

On October 24, 2009, millions of people around the world will take action to spread the number 350, the safe level of CO2 in the atmosphere measured in parts per million, and make sure world leaders are on course to reach that target.

I'm hoping to find a 350.org event near me because I want to be part of the solution. Please check out http://www.350.org to find or start an October 24 event near you.

It's urgent that we act together and build a movement that will solve the climate crisis and ensure a safe and just future for the world. Please join me, and help build this movement at 350.org

------------------

350.org is an international grassroots campaign that aims to mobilize a global climate movement united by a common call to action. By spreading an understanding of the science and a shared vision for a fair policy, we will ensure that the world creates bold and equitable solutions to the climate crisis. 350.org is an independent and not-for-profit project.

350.org needs your help! To support our work, donate securely online at http://www.350.org/donate

To subscribe, visit http://www.350.org/signup.
Join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/350.org and follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/350