Time Magazine's Top Ten Green Stories of 2008

As 2008 comes to an end, it is only natural to look back at the events of this past year. And what a year it's been-- with the presidential election as the headline story almost everyday. Every list has Barack Obama at the top. And the Top 10 list of Green Stories is no different.

Here's Time Magazine's List of Top 10 Green Stories of 2008.

When it comes to the daunting task of “saving the planet” it sometimes seems like nothing is ever enough. But in reviewing the events in the past year, I'm reminded of all of the great changes that happened and how far we have come in the fight against climate change.

But it is also a reminder that we have only just touched the tip of the (melting) iceberg. More and bigger changes are necessary and, I hope, on their way. We have a huge opportunity as a nation to take even greater steps forward. And if we do, the top ten list for 2009 will be even more impressive.

The Climate for Change

Last Tuesday, a record number of Americans -- 122 million of them-- went to the polls and voted. And while change is on its way, we all know that it will not happen over night.

As President-elect Obama said in his acceptance speech, "...we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime -- two wars, a planet in peril, the worst financial crisis in a century....The road ahead will be long. Our climb will be steep. We may not get there in one year or even in one term. But, America, I have never been more hopeful than I am tonight that we will get there."

We do have a long road ahead, but now more then ever is the time to work together and find solutions to all the looming issues facing the country, and even more importantly, a global population. That was also runner-up John McCain's message on election night.  A message of collaboration that quickly erased memories of a hard-fought campaign.  And a recognition that ideas can come from anywhere (even Nobel Prize winners).

This past Sunday, Al Gore sharing his thoughts and advice on how we can solve the economic crisis and the climate crisis at the same time, in a New York Time's Op-Ed.

If you haven't had a chance to read this piece, please do. 

It's our mantra, as well.  Since the financial crisis, The Greenery has stood firm that the economic downturn means opportunity for smart companies that employ real sustainability solutions and marketing.  And while it may mean the end of the green "trend," we believe it opens the door for the true, sustainable green industry boom.

Here's to change.

Dear Mr. President

Last week Professor Steve Rayner of acclaimed Oxford University posted an op-ed letter on Wired.com to our future President.

http://www.wired.com/politics/law/magazine/16-10/sl_rayner/

His POV is that the future is now: It's time for the US to stand up and take charge in the battle against climate change.

As Professor Rayner points out, once the US puts it full weight behind something (WWI & WWII), changes happen and they happen fast.

With lots of talk about "Change" these days, we trust the candidates are listening.