Update

Just days after Earth Hour, when millions of Americans called for action on climate change by turning off their lights, legislation has been introduced in a  first step toward strong climate bill.

The American Clean Energy and Security Act, released on March 31, 2009, in draft form by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Henry Waxman (D-CA) and Energy and Environment Subcommittee Chairman Edward Markey (D-MA). This is a major first step toward a strong cap and trade bill that will cut emissions, jumpstart a new clean energy economy, and strengthen the ability of the Obama administration to negotiate a fair and effective global climate deal this December in Copenhagen.

This past Saturday, millions of Americans joined with people from every corner of the planet in casting a decisive vote for action on climate change by turning off their lights for Earth Hour.  As hundreds of cities and towns as well as major iconic landmarks went dark across the U.S., a strong message was sent to our leaders in Washington that the American people are demanding action to address the climate crisis. 

The world's largest solar power facility, named Solar 2, which produces 10 megawatts of electricity. The 1'926 heliostats provide 81'400 square meters of sun-capturing surface area. Located in Daggett, California, Mojave Desert, United States of America
© Kevin Schafer / WWF-Canon

This is a strong draft bill that addresses the key elements of a global solution to the climate crisis.  The draft bill recognizes the need to reduce emissions globally by promoting clean technology cooperation and providing incentives for reducing tropical deforestation. Emissions associated with the destruction of forests account for roughly 20 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions each year – more than the combined emissions of every automobile, train and plane on the planet.

Learn more about WWF’s work to halt the degradation of the environment and combat climate change  Read more