It’s “fire season” again here in Oregon, giving us another reason to feel panic about climate change.

But what if there was a future where we have turned the corner toward a return to climate stability? In fact, each of us has the power to advocate for policy solutions to reduce climate pollution. While this effort can be slow, clean energy momentum is underway and we all can give it a push.

The U.S. has been seeing significant growth in renewable energy, with solar and wind power achieving record generation and accounting for roughly 90% of all new electricity-generating capacity added to the grid in 2024.

Every big energy project needs a permit. America’s current permitting process delays clean energy projects and presents a significant barrier to achieving America’s climate goals. We need to urge Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley to support clean energy permitting reform, to build new clean energy infrastructure faster, lower emissions, decrease energy costs and increase reliability for people nationwide.

On Tuesday, more than 800 Citizens Climate Lobby members from all 50 states (18 from Oregon!) will meet with our U.S. senators and representatives in Washington, D.C., to advocate for policies that fast-track a clean energy future that benefits everyone.

Citizens Climate Lobby is a nonpartisan, volunteer-driven organization that empowers everyday people to bridge divides and build political will for effective climate solutions in Congress. While climate action at the local, state and regional levels is crucial, our leaders in Congress also need to keep hearing from constituents on climate. Although many of us feel like Congress does nothing, it helps to remember that when there is bipartisan cooperation, it gets very little attention.

Tomorrow, you can join our national day of action by calling your members of Congress and urging them to take bold, lasting action on climate to magnify the efforts of our citizen lobbyists.

If that’s not a good day, call on whatever day works for you.

We can be the change we wish to see in the world.

Carol Yarbrough
Eugene