Sunday, December 13, 2009

Bright Green Business Expo

Hey All!!

Being in Copenhagen is without question a life-changing experience. So far, only 36 hours into the trip, I know many of us have met some INCREDIBLE people and all have learned a great deal about climate change as it is perceived by citizens from all over the world. The eye-opening perspectives we've been exposed to thus far will remain with us forever.

Today, Amy, Cassidy, and myself were fortunate enough to stumble upon an event, the Bright Green Business Expo, that featured a speech by US Secretary of Energy Stephen Chu. The event focused primarily on green energy solutions and how to power our growing world without sacrificing the climate. Northern European was very well represented, with Finland, Norway, Denmark, Sweden all very prominently displayed. Over one hundred businesses showcased their roles in stabilizing the climate system.

In this setting, it was very interesting to hear Dr. Chu speak, especially given the perception of the U.S. as a climate laggard. With the American Clean Energy and Security Act stalled in the Senate, any domestic action is far from certain.

Mr. Chu however, was optimistic about our country's role in tackling climate change. He spoke for 30 minutes about the need to change, and how this change would come about. He highlighted current energy solutions already have in place, and what he hopes to see be within the next 10-20 years. I gained great insight, and even hope, from this speech.

All in all Copenhagen has been amazing thus far. The best is yet to come!

-Jen Reichardt

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