Around the world —from capitol cities to the melting slopes of Mount Everest, even underwater on dying coral reefs—people held rallies aimed at focusing attention on the number 350 because scientists have insisted in recent years that 350 parts per million is the most carbon dioxide we can safely have in the atmosphere. The current CO2 concentration is 390 parts per million.
“That’s why glaciers and sea ice are melting, drought is spreading, and flooding is on the increase,” said Bill McKibben, founder of 350.org and author twenty years ago of the first major book on climate change. “And it’s why we need a huge worldwide movement to give us the momentum to make real political change. Our leaders have heard from major corporations and big polluters for a long time—today, finally, they heard from citizens and scientists.”
Community members gathered in front of Mt. Carmel Cathedral church to pose for a 350 photo in recognition of the issue of climate change.
The Division of Environmental Quality and Coastal Resources Management Office organized a 350 photo during the Green Business Initiative Eco-bag giveaway at Payless Market – a monthly event to promote reducing the use of plastic bags.