Climate Change

Think global (warming,) act local

Michelle Nijhuis Nov. 8, 2004 From the print edition
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  • John Fielder photo courtesy Rocky Mountain Climate Organization
  The Rocky Mountain Climate Organization, a new nonprofit in Colorado, is taking a backyard approach to the global problem of climate change. "Our main thrust is what (global warming) can mean right here, and that is more drought, more fire, and less biodiversity," says founder Stephen Saunders, a 30-year Colorado resident. "It’s threatening what makes this such a special place to live."

Saunders, a former deputy assistant secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior, has recruited a diverse set of partners: the cities of Denver, Fort Collins, Boulder and Aspen; Denver Water; the Aspen Skiing Company; The Nature Conservancy of Colorado; and several other businesses and organizations. Saunders hopes these partners will speak "credibly and with authority" about the impacts of climate change on the state and region.

The organization, which is raising funds from individuals and foundations, will advocate private and collective actions such as energy conservation and use of clean energy sources. "Everybody who’s an energy user needs to think about how to better meet their energy needs," says Saunders. The organization’s municipal partners have already pledged to reduce or slow their carbon dioxide emissions through a national program called Cities for Climate Protection.

For more information about the Rocky Mountain Climate Organization, check out rockymountainclimate.org or contact Stephen Saunders at 303-880-4598.

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