350.org is an organization that is building a global grassroots movement around climate change. Its initiatives center on organizing mass public actions involving thousands of volunteers in over 188 countries. The name “350.org” comes from the number that scientists say we need to lower the CO2 emissions level to in order to preserve the planet. The current level of CO2 in the atmosphere is 392 parts per million (ppm). Their mission is, “to be a laboratory for the best ways to strengthen the climate movement and catalyze transformation around the world.”

They have mobilized a huge number of volunteers: 5,200 simultaneous rallies and demonstrations in 181 countries in 2009, and an organized day of climate solution projects, including the creation of urban gardens and solar panel installations, at 7,000 events in 188 countries in 2010. CNN called the 2009 demonstrations, “the most widespread day of political action in the planet's history.”

350.org’s next Global Day of Action is September 24. “Moving Planet: A Day to Move Beyond Fossil Fuels” will organize demonstrations of bicycling, marching, skating, and dancing around the world. The demonstrations will be the vehicle used to deliver political demands, including: science-based policies such as a UN path for a socially-just transition back to 350 ppm, mobilization of funding to create access to clean, renewable energy, reducing corporate power over our leaders, supporting the rights of indigenous peoples, and protecting human health.

We chose to spotlight 350.org as an example of Technology for Change because of its use of the Internet and online video campaigns to connect people who are passionate about saving the planet from the disasters caused by climate change around the world. Check out this 90-second animated video used by 350.org to share their message, overcome language barriers, organize, and take action around the world.

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