The time, the place, the urgency - they are all lined up. So this summer, Environment Massachusetts is undertaking a statewide outreach campaign, promoting the cause of Massachusetts obtaining 100% of its energy from clean and renewable sources.
Calling on a crew of nearly 100 staffers and summer hires, Environment Massachusetts will distribute some 160,000 informational documents throughout Massachusetts. "From the Berkshires to Cape Cod, we'll be using the time-honored technique of going door-to-door to make the case for 100% renewable energy," said Ben Hellerstein, state director for the Environment Massachusetts Research & Policy Center.
While Environment Massachusetts - one of 29 state chapters of Environment America, a Boston-based advocacy group founded in 2007 - is constantly involved with various forms of outreach, this is its first campaign specifically dedicated to 100% renewable energy, said Mr. Hellerstein.
"It's especially important in Massachusetts given the state of our energy debate," he said. "We know Massachusetts has the possibility to get to 100% renewable by tapping into our wind and solar capacities. But this year, State officials are talking about making cuts in funding renewables at the same time as they want to increase investment in fossil-fuel production, including more money for gas pipelines - resources that could be going to clean energy. Raising awareness about the social benefits of 100% renewable is absolutely critical."
Operating out of Environment Massachusetts' three offices - in Boston, Cambridge and Amherst - groups of from two to five persons will bring more than just their enthusiasm to Massachusetts doorsteps. They'll be equipped with small computers offering interactive presentations about renewable energy. "We're making our message engaging," said Mr. Hellerstein.
Noting that several American cities - including Burlington, Ithaca and San Diego - have transitioned to 100% renewable energy, Environment Massachusetts sees its grassroots activities as an effective way to achieve its deeper goals. "We want to see Massachusetts make a state-wide commitment to 100% renewable energy," said Mr. Hellerstein. "And to get there, a great route is to get an increasing number of towns and cities to commit first. The localities can show the way."
So keep an eye out for the Environment Massachusetts crew this summer, and if they come knockin’ on your doorstep, take the chance to learn how we move to 100% renewable energy!
Author: Steve Seeger, founder of Steve's Weave