Submitted by Gretchen Wing

Is it possible to dramatically reduce our country’s carbon emissions while boosting the economy and improving health? Is it possible for Republicans and Democrats to work together on a nationwide policy to do that? Citizens’ Climate Lobby believes that the answer to both is “yes.”

On Saturday, April 1 at 1 p.m., Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) volunteer (and part-time Lopezian) David Foutch will give a presentation at the library explaining CCL’s optimism. David will also explain how CCL’s proposed carbon fee-and-dividend legislation would affect you and your community, and how you can help.

David Foutch has worked with CCL since 2014. He founded the Olympia, Washington chapter and led a workshop at the recent Greater Pacific Northwest Regional Conference on the subject of gaining endorsements for Citizens’ Climate Lobby’s carbon fee-and-dividend proposal. Among the many endorsers are Salt Lake City, Philadelphia, and the State of California.

Citizens’ Climate Lobby’s motto is, “Political will for a livable world.” It is a non-profit, non-partisan, grassroots advocacy organization focused on national policies to address climate change. Their non-partisan approach to climate education is designed to create a broad, sustainable foundation for climate action across all geographic regions and political inclinations. Choosing to build upon shared values rather than partisan divides, CCL works to empower communities to identify and work towards the adoption of fair, effective, and sustainable climate change solutions.

Specifically, in order to generate the political will necessary for passage of the Carbon Fee and Dividend proposal, CCL trains and supports volunteers to build relationships with elected officials, the media and their local community.

There are now 389 active chapters of Citizens’ Climate Lobby, most in the U.S., but many in Canada, Australia and Europe, and a growing number in Africa and Asia.

Climate scientist and advisory board member James Hansen says, “Most impressive is the work of Citizens’ Climate Lobby… If you want to join the fight to save the planet, to save creation for your grandchildren, there is no more effective step you could take than becoming an active member of this group.”

This event is co-sponsored by the Lopez Island Chamber of Commerce, Transition Lopez Island and Lopez Island Library.