You Can Help Citizens’ Climate Lobby Today

The Austin Metro Chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby appreciates your interest and support in 2023. We are sharing three action items we hope you will consider. Thank you!

Our BIG ask: Cosponsor the BIG WIRES Act | Action requested within 10 days of this posting.

Better energy transmission is key to successful permitting reform. The BIG WIRES Act (H.R.5551/S.2827) has been introduced in the Senate and the House. It has the potential to pass as part of a Congressional funding package this year.

Ask your members of Congress to cosponsor the BIG WIRES Act by following this link to the national website of Citizens’ Climate Lobby. Make America’s energy grid more resilient and reliable! Encourage states to build infrastructure we need to move to clean energy! This could pass as part of a end-of-year omnibus package. Americans deserve a reliable power grid and affordable clean energy, and this bill would help make that a reality.

Donate to the world’s most effective climate advocates!

We empower regular people across the country to build support for climate policies in their communities and in Congress. As a nonpartisan organization, we bring people from across the political spectrum together on climate action.

Our climate advocacy builds renewed hope for solving climate change – exactly what we need to push for a clean energy future.

Donations made to 501(c)(3) Citizens’ Climate Education are tax deductible. If you are able to make a non-tax-deductible donation, you can donate to 501(c)(4) Citizens’ Climate Lobby.

To review our Platinum seal GuideStar profile, follow this link. Thank you! Gifts are greatly appreciated on Giving Tuesday and any time during the year.

Join the Austin Metro Chapter via the secure online platform of Citizens’ Climate Lobby. We meet (in-person and virtually) on the second Saturday of each month in conjunction with the national organization’s monthly call. By signing up on the platform, you can join different action teams that suit your interests and learn about upcoming meetings and conferences. Nationally and locally organized training programs are available year-round. Contact austin@citizensclimatelobby.org for more information.

If you have already signed up, will you kindly share this page with family and friends? Thank you.

LTE Under Consideration: H.C.R. No. 22

The 87th Legislature of the State of Texas has a great opportunity to sponsor the proposed H.C.R. No. 22 – the Texas Environmental and Economic Stewardship Resolution. The goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while diversifying the economy supported by technological innovation and bipartisan collaboration.

It is not unknown to the Legislature that climate is changing and is having adverse impacts on the health and wellbeing of Texans. But we can’t rely on oil and gas as energy sources alone especially when it is contributing negatively to the health of Texans. Texas leads the nation in wind energy but we need more zero emissions sources like solar, geothermal, and nuclear.

The State of Texas has innovators, scientists, engineers and environmentalists who can provide expertise on energy sources and its impact on the changing climate. Texas House has already formed a Caucus on Climate and Environment and the Energy Industry, a perfect place to start thoughtful discussions on energy sources and transition opportunities to the 21st century low-carbon economy. The Legislature has a choice to grab this opportunity for the people they serve.

Richard “Larry” Howe

February 13, 2021

We need more than just the Paris Climate Accord

Re: Jan. 21 article, “Biden’s first act: Orders on pandemic, climate, housing.”

President Biden’s actions are most welcome on critical issues including the pandemic and ever-worsening climate crisis. They have caused emotional and economic devastation. It is refreshing to know that these crises will be collaboratively addressed based on facts and truth.

The reversal of the Trump administration’s freeze on vehicle mileage and emissions standards is critical to reduce pollution. The transportation sector is responsible for 28% of the total U.S. emissions. Manufacturers are ready to ramp up production of clean vehicles. The U.S. will need all possible measures to meet the goals of the Paris Climate Accord, which we will rejoin.

Global engagement is necessary but the Paris Climate Accord won’t be enough. Young people are demanding bold actions to draw down emissions. The lawmakers of the most resourceful nation, the U.S., could lead the world by sponsoring bipartisan proposals that help low-income families, create jobs and help reach the climate goals.

Kalpana Sutaria

Austin American-Statesman

February 5, 2021