A Party for "Clean Energy Common Sense"

On Tuesday evening, I joined with colleagues at the National Press Club, in Washington D.C., to celebrate the launch of the new book by NRDC's president, Frances Beinecke. The book, Clean Energy Common Sense, is a call to action on global climate change.

About 200 people gathered at the Press Club, including EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, as Bob Deans, co-author of the book, took the podium. He gave a moving introduction to Administrator Jackson, referring to her strong leadership and early successes in addressing some of the top environmental issues in our country. He talked about the common ground we share with the EPA and the challenges ahead.

He also described the remarkable journey of this book, which was written as a straight-forward and practical guide on climate change. At just over 100 pages, it can be read on an airplane or train ride. Completed in just two months, it contains the most up-to-date information available.

Watch a short video of the event here:

After Administrator Jackson said a few words, Frances delivered a speech in her typically grounded, yet impassioned manner. She talked about the urgency of addressing climate change and the opportunity we have in taking this on. She thanked her collaborators, including Bob, and the staff and supporters of NRDC. (The book's dedication reads: "To the staff and board of the Natural Resources Defense Council - past and present - for their commitment to our mission to safeguard the Earth.")

Frances also had kind words for Lisa Jackson, who she referred to as a "powerful leader" for the EPA. She reiterated that NRDC will fulfill its "watchdog" role by keeping a close eye on the EPA to ensure it carries out its responsibilities to protect the planet -- our air, water, lands, public health, and climate. It was clear that these two women have a mutual admiration that goes beyond their professional positions.

Frances signs a book:

After the speeches, the crowd dispersed to get food and talk with colleagues. It was great to see so many "friends of NRDC" in the room, including current staffers, former staffers, donors, board members, Hill staff, members of the administration, journalists, and colleagues from partner organizations. By 8pm, the crowd was thinning out, but not surprisingly plenty of people seemed content to hang around a while longer to talk about the issues of the day, the excitement of the new book, or just catch-up with old friends.

As I headed out, it occurred to me that the party was about more than just this book, it also reflected the spirit of NRDC, which has been relentlessly tackling the toughest environmental issues and fighting to protect the planet for nearly 40 years.

And it was about the significance and opportunity in this moment, as Congress deliberates action on clean energy and climate, Obama prepares for a trip to China, and nations work together to develop the framework for a global agreement in Copenhagen. This is a moment that holds great potential for strong action on climate and clean energy-- it is a moment for collaboration and to rise above individual concerns to address this pressing global problem. It is a moment for action and for common sense to protect our planet.