What’s 350? Dr. James Hansen, a NASA scientist, has calculated we need to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere to no more than 350 parts per million, if we want to to avoid catastrophic and irreparable harm to the planet. The good news: there’s still time. Just like high cholesterol or high blood pressure, a red flag number doesn’t mean the situation is hopeless but instead means it’s time to make changes. The 350 Campaign (which launched this week in eight languages) believes the first start is to get the number fixed in people’s heads (especially politicians’ heads), as a goal toward which to work — and at the same time working internationally to reduce dependence on coal and oil. (BTW, a reminder that today is “Dump the Pump” Day.)Here’s a video from the 350 Campaign, intentionally using pictures and music instead of words, in order to be accessible transnationally:
Today’s mitzvah: What can you do this week, this month, this year to reduce coal and oil use? This doesn’t require going off the grid; small actions matter too. Daily Mitzvah will post periodic “350 Thursday” ideas: I’d love to hear yours!
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