Inside the Greenhouse is a monthly newsletter about FCNL’s environmental work, ways to engage members of Congress, and stories that impact our work.
Addressing the Climate Crisis in the Midst of a Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic is an immediate threat, upending lives across the world. But even as millions try to weather the pandemic, the impacts of climate change continue to grow. As Congress attempts to soften the blow of the pandemic through legislation and stimulus packages, we must ensure that these short-term solutions align with our long-term goals of addressing climate change.
The crises of the world are interconnected. We know, for instance, that people of color are disproportionately subjected to air pollution, increasing their risk of cardiovascular and respiratory disease. And we know that underlying conditions like these decrease the body’s ability to fight COVID-19. Yet tragically, vulnerable communities are frequently situated in medically underserved areas.
When we lobby for just climate policies, it trickles down into every aspect of our lives.
Spring Lobby Weekend Success
Three weeks ago, the Spring Lobby Weekend planning committee made the tough choice to move our event online. As we dove into uncharted territory, we did not know what to expect.
But thanks to the tenacity of 500 young people from 38 states, the virtual event was a huge success! We were virtually graced by wonderful speakers, such as Rachel Cleetus (Union of Concerned Scientists), Jamie DeMarco (Citizen’s Climate Lobby), and Dr. Mustafa Santiago Ali (National Wildlife Federation). Moreover, we completed over 100 virtual lobby visits with congressional staffers!
It can be easy to be immobilized by fear and anxiety in times like these. But hundreds of young advocates decided to channel their energy into climate action. I am so proud of these advocates and the Spring Lobby Weekend team! They are persistent changemakers in the face of the climate crisis.
Catch up on highlights and watch recordings of the event on this page.
In 2020, there are 14 senators in the Climate Solutions Caucus
News and Updates
FCNL Writes Congressional Leaders and the Administration
FCNL joined its partners in writing several letters on energy and the environment this month. Read the full text of the letters below:
- Congress should prioritize justice, stewardship, and sustainability in COVID-19 relief packages.
- Federal agencies must suspend public comment periods and delay new policy proposals amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
- House leadership should prioritize three bills to protect coal-dependent communities.
Inspired by Local Successes
I recently traveled to southeast Georgia to visit family, and I met some inspiring environmental advocates along the way. Read my reflection.
Constituent Spotlight
As we celebrate Earth Day’s 50th Anniversary on April 22, we are collecting stories that illustrate how much environmental advocacy has transformed since the first Earth Day in 1970. Stories have the power to change hearts and minds. Share yours here.
Earth Day Action
Join me on April 22 for an online lobby training to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day! This training will give you the tools to educate your member of Congress on why carbon pricing is most cost-efficient way to reduce our emissions at the scale and speed that is necessary.
Goodbye to Emily
After almost seven years at FCNL, Emily Wirzba has decided to take a new position as manager of government relations at the Environmental Defense Fund. Her last day with FCNL will be April 7. Emily was instrumental in growing our sustainable energy and environment program, and she helped create bipartisan momentum to address climate change in Congress. We will miss her dearly!
