350 is a number containing the key to a positive future. It represents what leading scientists and climate experts are now saying is the safe upper limit for carbon dioxide [CO2] in our atmosphere — 350 parts per million [ppm].

A new grassroots movement is connecting online and calling for the goal of 350ppm to be agreed upon at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen this December.

Current atmospheric CO2 levels are 390ppm and rising. The latest science proposes that we must reach the 350ppm target before the end of the century, to avoid irreversible climate impacts such as the melting of the Greenland ice sheet.

On October 24th 2009, six weeks before the UN meetings in Copenhagen, an International Day of Climate Action will take place, co-ordinated by 350​.org. They hope to unite the public, media and political leaders behind the 350 goal.

People are being encouraged to set up an event where they live, that makes the number 350 visible. Some preliminary photograph opportunities have already taken place, including Buddhist monks forming a huge 350, against a backdrop of the Himalayas.

Groups in over 1,000 communities around the globe have announced plans for October 24th, such as school children planting 350 trees in Bangladesh and 350 people scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef. Participants are being asked to upload group photographs from the events to the campaign website. 350​.org will collate these to create a powerful visual petition that can be delivered to the media and world leaders.

Contact: 350​.org, Suite 340, David Brower Centre, Berkeley, California 94704, USA Tel: +1 (510) 250 7860
Website: www​.350​.org

Buddhist Monks in Ladakh, India
Photo: courtesy of 350​.org