Earth Day 2016: Petitioning the President

Last week Earth Day Network began a petition imploring President Barack Obama to sign the Paris Climate Agreement this upcoming Earth Day. The official signing ceremony is to held this April 22^nd at United Nations Headquarters in New York City. All world leaders have been invited to the ceremony, planned by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, a staunch supporter of the agreement. The Paris Climate Agreement – created by representatives of over 190 United Nations member states and the European Union – calls for nations around the world to decrease their greenhouse gas emissions and to keep the global average temperature from rising two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This two-degree increase is considered to be the point where humanity will begin to feel the most destructive and dangerous effects of climate change. In order for the Paris Climate Agreement to become binding, 55 countries – representing a total of 55% of global emissions – need to sign. As the United States emits more greenhouse gases than every country except China, it is especially important for the US to lead the way. By signing, we set an example for the rest of the world to follow. Without the support of the United States, it will be very hard for the Paris Agreement to successfully cut world-wide emissions. So far over thirteen thousand individuals have signed the petition, but we need your help to make sure that the President signs this historic agreement to help save the Earth! With your support and dedication, we will be able to demand that the United States commit to this monumental agreement. Please sign and share our petition with your friends and family!