As Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s comment makes clear, there will be no climate bill this year. This is a crucial step on the long and tortuous road to averting cataclysm, but defeat for the ACES placebo is of little long term consequence unless it is killed for the right reason. The Climate SOS campaign aims to do just that.

“First we were told not to let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Then we were told not to let the good be the enemy of the mediocre. Then we weren’t to make the mediocre the enemy of the awful. And now we must not be purists who turn the awful into the enemy of the completely disgusting.” Anonymous environmentalist

Climate SOS is a new and expanding network (which includes the Jamaica Plain Green House), concerned with ensuring that U.S. climate legislation effectively rises to the challenges we face from global warming. We are extremely disturbed by the inadequacies of the American Clean Energy and Security Act, passed by the House, which contains numerous provisions that lead us to conclude that such a bill would be worse than doing nothing and set us on a path to failure.

Reader support helps sustain our work. Donate today to keep our climate news free. All donations DOUBLED!

Given the primary responsibility of the U.S. in causing global warming, we feel that Americans must also take responsibility both in doing what is necessary to avert the worst, and to fulfill our obligation to the world as we all face the consequences. Our aim is to first prevent disastrous “false” legislation from being passed, and then to replace it with visionary measures that will be truly effective and adequate in setting us on the path to avert global climate catastrophe.

Grist thanks its sponsors. Become one.

To support our nonprofit environmental journalism, please consider disabling your ad-blocker to allow ads on Grist. Here's How

Climate SOS is taking a tour of the country to meet with people, spread our message, and help organize meetings and actions to influence key swing vote Senators!

Activist Duff Badgeley will be traveling with a small support group (by bus and train only — no cars!), stopping off in North Dakota, Indianapolis, Little Rock, and Cleveland. Now is the time for nonviolent civil disobedience, office occupations, and nationwide protest. Head here to get involved and endorse.