Bridge to a Cool Planet calls for action on climate change

Vancouverites challenge Ottawa to take action on climate change at Bridge to a Cool Planet Saturday, October 24

As world leaders gather this December in Copenhagen to hammer out a new treaty to cut emissions in an effort to curb global warming, Kevin Washbrook hopes Canada isn't embarrassed.

"We want to see Canada playing a positive role in Copenhagen," says Washburn, the founder of Bridge to a Cool Planet, an all-day event to  coincide with International Day of Climate Action, Saturday, October 24. "No 'dinosaur' awards. No obstruction, no walk-outs by developing nations in response to our governments antics. Don't embarrass us—make us proud on the world stage!"

And that's the message he wants Vancouver to send Ottawa Saturday, as the city prepares to participate in what is anticipated to be the world's largest ever mobilization effort around climate change, with 350.org serving as the main organizing hub. (350 stands for 350 parts per million, as in the safe upper limit of atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations.)

"This day isn't a protest," says Washbrook. "It's a celebration, spectacle, inspiration, advocacy and a call for action all rolled into one. We want it to be fun."

Participants can expect costumes, music, dancing and lots of friendly faces in this citywide community event.

Festivities begin on the bridge with a major gathering and a massive banner drop, and continue with a parade to performance stages, eco-fair and kids’ programs around Science World, as well as evening speaker sessions downtown.

"Bridge to a Cool Planet is our best chance to come together and show we care about global warming—and put government on notice that it must play a strong leadership role in Copenhagen," says Washbrook.

>>> Read an interview with Kevin Washbrook by Granville Online editor Hilary Henegar