350 Central Colorado is presenting another in its series of environmental films, Paris to Pittsburgh beginning at 6:30 p.m.Tuesday, April 9, at the First Presbyterian Church, 7 Poncha Blvd., Salida.
This National Geographic film looks at community efforts to combat climate change despite government inaction in the U.S. and elsewhere.
In 2017, President Donald Trump announced the U.S. was pulling out of the Paris Climate Agreement despite nearly every country in the world having agreed to it. “I was elected to represent the citizens of Pittsburgh, not Paris,” he said.
The mayor of Pittsburgh then announced his city would continue to follow the Paris Climate Agreement guidelines. That exchange inspired the film’s title.
Katherine Oliver, principal, Bloomberg Philanthropies and executive producer of Paris to Pittsburgh, said communities in this country and around the world are taking steps to confront health and economic threats posed by climate change.
“However you slice it though, taking sustainable actions will only help in the fight against climate change. Putting aside partisan politics because the realities leave no other choice, they are starting sustainable businesses, they are getting educations for jobs of the future in wind energy,” said Oliver. “They’re not stuck in past debates about the topic, they’re taking action because it is obvious we must,” she added.
The film is being screened free of charge, but the group says donations to offset costs with screening the film and room rental are gratefully accepted.
Information about the Paris Climate Agreement is available at www.unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement/the-paris-agreement
With too many buried in the over-heating sands of the denial desert, it’s way past time for a ‘heads up (like many decades!). A bit of awareness is in the offing, thanks to 350 Central Colorado’s initiative. Besides, this film offering is an opportunity for community. Take the risk, take a look.