The count-down is on. This Saturday you will have an opportunity to join with your neighbors, fellow citizens and fellow humans from around the world to mark Climate Action Day, which 350.org has declared "the most widespread day of environmental action in the planet’s history."  We hope you'll participate in this extraordinary day, and then carry that spirit of conservation into your home.

Why 350 Matters

For those not intimately familiar with environmentalist and journalist Bill McKibben or the organization he founded, 350.org, here's the quick and dirty: The  "350" refers to 350 parts per million, which scientists have decreed to be the safe level of carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere. In other words, 350 is the tipping point toward climate change. It is a point we must return to (we've gone past it) in order to regain a safe and healthy planet.

McKibben and his organization have built a powerful online campaign aiming to inform and ignite action. This early video is an excellent example of both their approach (simple, direct) and their audacity (global from the beginning, this video is language neutral).

Why Your House Matters

We at Energy Circle are excited about The International Day of Climate Action, because we believe that reducing carbon emissions is essential. Buildings - including the one you live in - represent 38% of carbon emissions, and the operation of existing buildings (including the one you live in) uses up seventy-six percent (76%)! of power-plant generated electricity. It's time to shave those numbers down. That's why we sell products and provide information to help you monitor your electricity use, reduce waste, and conserve energy.

We also think 350.org has got the method right. Concerted action is the best way to make change happen. We designed Moolah Maker, a free on-line tool to help parents and kids save energy and money, with that concept in mind, and we have heard rave reviews from families that are thinking about home energy in a whole new way, and saving money in the process.

Get out on October 24, but don't stop there. Go home, and start reducing your energy usage at home. We'll be with you, every step of the way down to 350, and beyond.