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Congressional Break Brings Activists to Home Districts

March 28, 2008

As members of Congress return to their districts across the nation, supporters of a new campaign to confront climate change have been there to greet them. More than 500 supporters of the 1Sky campaign are in the process of visiting 240 Congressional district offices in all 50 states during the Congressional recess, which lasts until March 31.

"Congress may be in recess, but the climate change movement is in full gear," said Gillian Caldwell, campaign director for 1Sky. "As a nation, we've never shied away from a challenge, and climate change is one of the greatest challenges we've ever faced. But it's also a tremendous opportunity for us to benefit from a sustainable economy and ensure our national security by embracing energy independence."

At each district office, supporters are presenting their Congressperson with copies of the 1Sky policy platform, which calls for the United States to:
(1) Conserve 20 percent of our energy by 2015, creating 5 million new green jobs focused on climate solutions and energy efficiency ;
(2) Reduce global warming pollution at least 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 and at least 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050; and
(3) Impose a moratorium on new coal plants and end fossil fuel dependence through strong standards and incentives for energy efficiency and renewable energy.

Liz Butler, director of Field & Outreach for 1Sky, said that the campaign is attracting an unusually broad range of support. "So many people and organizations across the country know that our nation needs to take significant action to deal with climate change. They also know that action is only going to come if we unite behind a single movement—and that's exactly what's happening."

To find out more, visit www.1sky.org.