By: Patrice Timmons
Today, I had the pleasure of attending a clean energy meeting for the Maryland chapter of the Sierra Club. This meeting brought people together, celebrated steps taken toward clean energy in the state, and provided excellent opportunities for volunteers to get involved. Present were staff and volunteers, both new and experienced. Some people shared previous experience in energy-related fields; for example, one attendee hosts recurring webinars to educate the public about community solar. Chapter Chair Rosa Hance went through a slideshow, periodically pausing to let people ask questions and share their opinions.
The Sierra Club defines clean energy as Solar, Wind, Geothermal, as well as small scale hydropower, and battery backup systems. We do not recognize fracked gas or burning trash as renewable or clean! Our chapter’s goal is to clean the environment by transitioning to 100% clean renewable energy! So far, our efforts have included bills that transition off of burning coal as fuel, supporting clean green jobs through the Clean Energy Jobs Act. Now enacted statewide, Maryland aims to reach 50% clean energy by 2030.
We discussed virtual organizing actions to help achieve this goal, including social media campaigns (blogs, videos highlighting accomplishments), and virtual educational events. A community solar event was held the first time this summer- people who work in the industry were there to explain the ideas behind solar energy! Potential ideas included wind, solar agriculture/innovation, and a walking tour of the solar array.
Volunteers were informed of exciting positions, as a facilitator or as part of the social media team. A facilitator would schedule, plan, and organize events. The social media team would manage content (blogs, videos, posts), moderate live chat rooms, and/or schedule outreach events. Some members suggested posting on TikTok, Snapchat,or Instagram, as vivid photos of nature would get people interested in protecting the environment. Our volunteer coordinator let us know that equity orientation training is available, so that volunteers feel comfortable and supported in their roles. Various team members presented their own ideas for action, such as participating in Fridays for Future, and writing letters to politicians. Also, we were informed of the ongoing election for volunteer leaders. If interested in running or recruiting candidates, you may contact nominations@mdsierra.org.
The atmosphere of the meeting felt welcoming and energetic. By the end of the meeting, participants were excited for the grassroots approach, and eagerly sharing contact information. One person noted “this made my Monday”.