9 reasons for hope in the face of climate change

9 reasons for hope in the face of climate change

Climate change is one of the greatest threats facing people, wildlife, and the planet. From warming temperatures to more extreme weather, communities in the US and around the world are already feeling the impacts.

But we can create a safer and more resilient future if we work together to rethink the way we produce and consume energy, food, and water; protect the world’s forests; and help people prepare for inevitable change. Such a task can feel overwhelming and daunting at times. After all, doing so requires swift and collective movement from every nation at a time when visions don’t always align.

Although the US government has announced its intent to withdraw from the Paris Agreement—the world’s roadmap for addressing climate change in coming the years—a new generation of climate leaders in America is committed to ensuring the US remains a global leader in fighting climate change. With the help of WWF, millions of people, America’s leading businesses, cities, states, colleges and universities are joining world leaders to tackle climate change.

We believe that addressing climate change requires collaboration from everyone. Here are nine reasons why we’re hopeful in the face of this threat:

1. In response to the Trump Administration’s intent to withdraw the US from the Paris Climate Agreement, thousands of CEOs, college presidents, mayors, governors, tribal leaders, and communities of faith are standing shoulder to shoulder, declaring with one voice that America is “still in” on fighting climate change. As part of the We Are Still In movement, these 2,600 leaders from the are committed delivering on the US’ goals under the Paris Agreement and to ensuring the US remains a global leader in reducing emissions.
   
   
2. More than 1,800 businesses and investors—representing over $2.3 trillion in annual revenue and employing over 4.7 million Americans—are part of the We Are Still In movement. As the face of the US economy, these businesses and investors can make a significant impact in the global fight against climate change.

3. Today, 18 states and tribes, and more than 250 cities and counties are part of the We Are Still In movement, representing 130 million residents and roughly one third of the entire US economy. Cities and states must reduce their carbon emissions in order for the US to deliver strong action on climate change.

4. 335 of America’s colleges and universities are committed to climate action and the We Are Still In movement. These institutions are cutting their carbon pollution and equipping more than 4.2 million students with the skills and knowledge to build a low-carbon future.
   
   
5. Half of America’s Fortune 500 companies have a goal to cut climate pollution. Their efforts are equivalent of taking more than 40 coal fired power plants offline for a year.

6. A total of 74 American companies seek to power their operations with renewable energy—the equivalent of powering 6.2 million American homes. They’re calling for greater access to renewable energy across America to power their businesses, and encouraging other companies to follow their lead.
   
   
7. More than 300 companies around the world are setting targets to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions based on climate science. Just this week, McDonald’s set a new science-based climate target, becoming the first global restaurant company to do so. By aligning their business plans with the Paris Agreement’s global temperature goals, companies are driven to find new and innovative ways to reach them—and encouraging their supply chains to make similar pledges. Companies that reduce emissions and cut energy use can often save money, too.
   
   
8. More than 3.3 million Americans are employed in the clean energy economy. There are more American jobs in renewable energy than in traditional fossil fuels.
   
   
9. You! People like you who care about our planet are standing together to take action on climate change. Join us by turning off your lights for Earth Hour at 8:30 local times this Saturday and spread the word to friends and family through word of mouth and on social media using #EarthHour. Every individual gives Earth Hour a louder voice.

Published March 20, 2018 at 05:00AM