The American public seems frantic for strong government action that addresses global warming.  Yet, although the federal government may finally be starting to take this issue seriously, progress at the federal level continues to move forward at a glacial pace.  In its version of this year's Energy Bill, the US Senate took some very modest steps toward decreasing our dependence on fossil fuels, which include establishing a 35 mph fuel economy standard for cars, trucks, and SUVs.  Even these measures, however, still hinge on approval by the House of Representatives. 

Continued lack of action from the federal government means that making change at lower government levels is more important than ever.  Some of Oregon's national representatives, such as Earl Blumenauer and David Wu, have shown a commitment to the fight against global warming.  However in Oregon, as in the nation at large, the real heroes in the fight against global warming are local officials.  Cities like Portland and Eugene have already taken great strides toward carbon neutrality, with Hillsboro, Beaverton, and others poised to follow their lead.  Furthermore, the county level of government is now getting in on the action; with some pressure from ordinary citizens, the counties of the Portland Metropolitan Area may end up becoming some of the nation's first Cool Counties.  The absence of action from Congress and the White House does not mean hope is lost.  Rather, it simply underlines the importance of working for change at lower levels of government.  Want to get more involved?  Visit the Global Warming Action Dashboard.

-Nick