Extra: Hear our KPOJ radio spot for Moving Planet here, or see the video of the radio spot here.
Almost everyone these days knows at least a little about global warming and climate change. Since Portland is the epicenter of environmental awareness, most people who read our newsletter are also familiar with the international climate action group 350.org. Just in case… 350ppm (parts per million) is the level determined by scientists to be the maximum safe level of carbon in the earth’s atmosphere for maintaining life. We are currently at 390ppm and rising- not safe! 350.org was created to highlight this critical number in climate science.
After successful climate awareness events around the world in 2009 and 2010, 350.org planned an expanded event for this year—Moving Planet Day. It is designed to emphasize the urgency of moving away from a carbon-based, fossil-fuel-based society and moving toward a more energy-efficient and 
sustainable future. More importantly, it’s designed to demand real action NOW, from governments and individuals around the world.
On September 24th from 12pm-3pm people from around the metro area will take bikes, buses, trains, skateboards or their own two feet to Moving Planet- Portland: A Climate Action Fest outside at the Memorial Coliseum Commons. At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about climate change, alternative energy, and citizen involvement groups they can join through speakers, exhibits, and information stations. Make sure to bring your cameras to interact with some of the exhibit 
photo opportunities! People will be motivated to take action on-site by writing cards to elected officials and making pledges to increase use of greener mobility modes such as carpooling, public transit, walking, and biking. These events have been huge fun in the past. If you’d like to see what you’ll be getting in to, you can see hundreds of photos by clicking here for 350.org’s photo stream.
In line with the goals of 350.org and the worldwide Moving Planet event, the aim is to inspire attendees to call upon political leaders, their communities, and themselves to move toward a sustainable way of life. You’ll be able to take real action on issues of the environment, climate justice, transit equity, and cleaner transportation.
Of course, climate change isn’t just a subject for adults. Our
children and grandchildren will be living with the consequences of our decisions, so it’s never too early to teach and inspire them. There will be a children’s program area with learning opportunities, face painters, crafts, and ways that even little kids can pitch in to help change their world.
If you want to help make a real difference in the fight against global climate change, we hope you’ll make a special effort to be at this important event. Even if you can’t make it on the big day, there’s a way you can help… TELL YOUR FRIENDS! The Moving Planet folks have created a Facebook page for the event at https://www.facebook.com/pages/350oregon/195330607197176 that is constantly being updated with 350 information. Share it with your friends, and if you can’t make it maybe one of them can!
The choices made by our society in the next few years will impact our people and planet for decades and even centuries to come. Each individual’s participation matters, and matters NOW. Moving Planet- Portland is designed to make this message clear, and to encourage each person to make all the difference they can. Please, if you can, make plans to be there and make your own difference!
