Civic Engagement

One of the things I love about Sunnyside is the way so many of us have stepped up to support a sustainable future. We ride our bikes. We recycle. We plant backyard gardens. We install solar panels. We shop at farmers markets. While all these are important, I know it’s not enough. That’s why I also volunteer with Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL) to try to make a real impact on climate change.

I build political will around the importance of carbon pricing by asking members of Congress to support the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act. This bipartisan policy places an increasing price on fossil fuels at the source, and returns net proceeds to all households. Every month you would receive a dividend check to spend as you choose.

Why put a price on carbon? It is the single most effective solution we can implement to curb emissions. In fact, Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen said, “We cannot solve the climate crisis without effective carbon pricing.” Why am I asking you to help me pass a price on carbon at the national level? We are running out of time and this policy would reduce carbon emissions by 50% in just 10 years and help us get to net zero by 2050. For our livable future, let’s all work for change on the local and federal level. For more CCL information, contact me at [email protected]. I hope to see you at our next CCL meeting on August 14th.

Francine Chinitz

CCL Volunteer, Portland Chapter Co-leader

Author: Francine Chinitz

CCL Volunteer, Portland Chapter Co-leader