Climate Reality hits Pittsburgh region
This week the Sustainable Pittsburgh team were among 1,400 trainees engrossed in the three-day Climate Reality Project leadership training at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center, led by former Vice President Al Gore. The intensive dive into the pernicious impacts the changing climate is having all around our globe was deflating, but also uplifting regarding the solutions already delivering positive, turnaround results. “We have the answers. We just need to match them with political will,” urged Mr. Gore. The clear pathway forward to reducing emissions and the incidence of extreme weather events, improving public health, saving species from extinction, and more, is found in Mr. Gore’s statement of the business case for addressing climate change in that the “solutions to the climate crisis are also the solution to global economic malaise.” Right here in southwestern Pennsylvania, we observe the power of prosperity fueled by activities that simultaneously benefit people, planet, and community. We are the first generation to feel the effects of climate change and the last to be able to do something about it. Sustainable development and business practices are the answer.
What can you do? Begin by joining the 780 people who have taken the “I Am Sustainable Pittsburgh” pledge. The old adage, “think globally; act locally” embodies the many diverse actions laid out in this commitment to a more sustainable region. As a next step, do spend time with any of our region’s remarkable organizations that are advancing a civic mission that appeals to your purpose. We look forward to getting to know and serving you.