Understand Procedures and Policy . . . Take Effective Action!
Guidance materials are available for many areas related to effective climate action. Information is categorized below by action area.
Communicating on Climate Change:
Effective Communication on Climate Topics: Research and studies have been conducted on the most effective strategies for communicating the facts of climate science as well as building connections with others around effective action. Books, reports and websites in this area are described below (more to come):
- EcoAffect managed by EcoAmerica provides research and reports for”Eco-Climate Communication Professionals” with titles such as “Communicating the Scientific Consensus on Climate Change.“
- Climate Outreach Information Network provides a database of research called “Talking Climate: The gateway to research on climate change communication.” Among the guides are these well referenced topics:
State Level Climate Policy and Regulations:
Washington State Climate Policy Laws and Executive Orders
Policy Framework (2005-2010)
Washington has adopted a set of coordinated policies to grow our economy and reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. Emissions in this state come from transportation (46%), electricity (20%), industrial sources (16%), residential and commercial buildings (9%), agriculture (6%) and waste (3%). The policies we have adopted will help the state meet its statutory greenhouse gas reduction targets and the Governor’s commitment to growing green jobs. For more information, click here.
Environmental Impact Statement Process
Commenting Under NEPA: The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIS) Process
- Art of Commenting on NEPA (comprehensive)
- A Citizens Guide to NEPA (concise)
- What Is “Cumulative Assessment” under EIS
Divestment from Fossil Fuels:
Resources on Divestment: Having investments in the fossil fuel industry, whether individually or as a foundation or other institution, both contributes to the continued use of fossil fuels and global warming, and puts the value of investments at risk as their value declines as a source of energy. Following are resources and information on divestment and how to encourage it broadly.
- Divest-Invest: a group of “foundations and individuals divesting from fossil fuels and switching to clean energy investments, joining college, health, pension funds and religious endowments doing the same. Ethically, our investments shouldn’t contribute to dangerous climate change. Financially, fossil fuel stocks are over valued as most of their reserves cannot be burned. We can get good, safe returns while helping to build a new energy system.” They have resources about divestment, including white papers, brochure, a presentation and the opportunity to pledge to do so. They provide a free pdf of Extracting Fossil Fuels From Your Portfolio: A Guide to Personal Divestment and Reinvestment.