1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

The global climate crisis demands immediate and decisive action. As your constituent, I urge you to champion policies that will accelerate California's efforts to combat climate change and maintain our state's leadership in this critical fight. Recent scientific projections paint a dire picture: the world is on track for 2.3 to 2.5 degrees Celsius of warming this century, with a possibility of reaching a catastrophic 2.8 degrees. We've already experienced about 1.4 degrees of warming above pre-industrial levels, and the consequences are becoming increasingly severe. Climate impacts are occurring earlier and more intensely than previously predicted, with developing countries bearing the brunt of these effects. The stakes couldn't be higher. Warming above 2 degrees could trigger irreversible tipping points in our climate system. A 3-degree warmer world would bring devastating sea level rise, extreme weather events, loss of mountain glaciers, and destabilization of ice sheets. Scientists warn that even 2 to 3 degrees of warming is extremely dangerous and not considered livable for many. California has long been a pioneer in environmental protection and clean energy innovation. Now, we must redouble our efforts. I implore you to push for increased investment in clean energy technologies and other climate change reversal strategies. This includes accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources, enhancing energy efficiency across all sectors, and supporting research and development of carbon capture and storage technologies. Furthermore, we must strengthen our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protect and expand our natural carbon sinks like forests and wetlands, and invest in climate-resilient infrastructure. These actions will not only help mitigate climate change but also create jobs, improve public health, and secure a sustainable future for all Californians. The window for effective action is rapidly closing. The 1.5-degree Celsius warming limit agreed upon in the Paris Agreement is now considered out of reach. However, every fraction of a degree matters in preventing the worst outcomes. By leading the way in climate action, California can inspire and pressure other states and nations to follow suit, potentially averting the most catastrophic scenarios. I urge you to treat this issue with the utmost urgency it deserves. Our actions today will determine the livability of our planet for generations to come. Please support and introduce legislation that will cement California's position as a global leader in climate change reversal efforts. Our future depends on it.