Religious leaders from across the nation are joining together to write to their Senators, in order to make the moral case for comprehensive climate legislation. Faith communities are calling for federal climate legislation that includes strong emission reductions, international adaptation assistance, and protections for low-income families. To be a peace activist, we must reduce the causes of war and violence.  Key among these is our use of oil.

While climate legislation is being debated, we can all step-up our own responsibilities to the environment.

1.      In the US, the petroleum used to produce plastic water bottles would fuel 100,000 US cars for 1 year.

2.      In the US, we spend $15 billion a year on bottled water. In developing countries, $15 billion is spent for safe water.

3.      A 20 mile round trip daily commute costs about $500 monthly. The same commute will cost about $200 a month on Metro. Carpooling also reduces costs, pollution and congestion

4.      By raising your thermostat in the summer and lowering it in the winter, you reduce energy costs.

5.      Insulate, buy local, bicycle, walk; all are cheap and effective.

Legislation alone will be hollow without personal commitment to change. As Ghandi said, “We must become the change we want to see in the world.”

-Byron Sandford