This blog is by Michael Williams, Senior Policy and Legislative Advocate.

If you are a subscriber of our daily newsletter, The Source, then you more than likely saw two of the top three articles in yesterday’s edition: “Action: CO2 Levels Pass 400ppm Mark,” and “Green Economy Could Bring 60 Million Jobs Worldwide.”  There is an obvious connection between the two headlines that is worth pointing out. 

Scientists in Arctic monitoring stations recently announced that carbon dioxide levels have reached 400ppm, levels of the main global warming pollutant the Earth has not experienced in over 800,000 years. To avoid the worst consequences of global warming, the world needs keep global warming pollution below 400ppm. 

Running parallel to these recent findings, the International Labour Organization released a report today highlighting the creation of millions of jobs globally by shifting to a greener economy. This additional report, on top of the many previous reports and numerous historical and current examples, shows the promise and the opportunity of strategic and scientifically prudent environmental action. In particular, actions to significantly address global warming – the most perilous issue of our time – offer an unmatched opportunity to structure a sustainable economy that is built upon the foundations of good jobs, solid communities, and environmental protection. 

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