Tree Planting Project
On October 24th, IC 21 launched its year-long tree planting project. With funds from 1% for the Tetons, IC 21 will plant 350 trees in and around the Tetons. IC 21 is partnering with local schools, governments, businesses and other non-profits in this endeavor to reach this goal. IC 21's Oct. 24th event was one of over 5,000 climate action projects held in over 181 countries to celebrate 350.org's International Day of Climate Action.
The number 350 has taken on symbolic significance in climate
change discussions in recent years. Many scientists feel that 350 parts per
million (ppm) of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere is the safe
limit for humanity. The current level is 387 ppm of CO2.
Embracing the symbolism of 350, renowned author and activist Bill McKibben set
up 350.org, a US-based non-profit with branches in over 50
countries. The
organization, which is largely run by university students, has been effective
in building a global grassroots movement to raise awareness about climate
change and the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference in December 2009.
IC 21's tree planting project was inspired by the Alliance Against Climate Change (or AACC)--a local group of high school school students from Jackson Hole High School and Jackson Hole Community School committed to combating climate change. In the winter of 2008, they created the banner featured in the picture to the left. Local businessman and Exum Guide, Andy Tyson, holds the banner atop
the highest peak in Antarctica, Mt. Vinson.
Andy is the co-owner of Creative Energies and
the Chairman of the solar task force of the Idaho Strategic Energy Alliance.