“Climate change is both a result of, and a cause of injustice. We simply cannot solve the climate crisis without building a new economy that is fair, equal and works for all of us.” These are the driving words behind the Rise For Climate Action movement, which will be taking their message to the streets this weekend.
On September 8th, thousands of people around the world are joining together to showcase local environmental efforts and to demand that their “local leaders commit to building a fossil free world that puts people and justice before profits.”
artwork from Jhon Cortés
It’s all being held in conjunction with the Global Climate Action Summit, being held next week in California with the aim of bringing together civic and business leaders from around the world to take climate action to the next level.
The idea here is to not only make sure the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement are met, but to ensure that they’re surpassed… all in spite of the fact that the US has decided to withdraw from it. With this lack of national leadership, the attention has shifted to putting pressure on local governments and even businesses to join in on the effort to reduce global emissions.
So what is the Rise For Climate Action movement asking for exactly?
As they explain on their website, the movement’s goal is simple – an actionable and public commitment from every local government institution to transition to 100 percent carbon-free energy.
“Every local leader has the power, and a moral obligation to do everything they can to stop the fossil fuel industry and build 100% renewable energy for all,” explains the Rise For Climate website.
So how can you get involved?
There will be three Rise For Climate events in Austin that you can participate in.
They are:
- SW Austin Rise Up – interact with local eco-friendly businesses and nonprofits on Saturday, September 8th at The Rusty Mule
- Earth Care North Austin – learn more about how to build a fossil fuel free world right here in Austin – Sunday, September 9th at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
- Climate Solutions Tour – visit the La Loma Community Solar Farm in east Austin, learn about sustainable agriculture at Eden East farm, and check out an Electric Vehicle Showcase at Austin Community College’s Eastview Campus (Please note – while this event was originally scheduled for Saturday, it has been postponed due to the weather. Stay tuned and we’ll let you know about a new date when is announced.)
