CNMI joins call for climate change action in global 350.org demonstration

SAIPAN—On Saturday morning, Saipan residents joined people in 181 countries for the most widespread day of environmental action in the planet's history. At more than 5,200 events around the world, people gathered to call for strong action and bold leadership on the climate crisis.

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.”

Saipan Fatuul Canoe Club organized a 350 photo with paddlers at the Micronesian Cup Competition.

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 CNMI Marine Monitoring Team organized a 350 photo at one of several coral bleaching sites.

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.