The Union of Concerned Scientists has partnered with
literary publisher Penguin Classics to encourage the public to submit essays and
images about climate change for publication in a new online book, Thoreau's
Legacy: American Stories about Global Warming. This offers a great
opportunity for people to reflect on why they want strong action to curb global
warming and share their thoughts with a wider audience.
From Henry David Thoreau and Ralph Waldo Emerson in the
nineteenth century to Rachel Carson and E.O. Wilson in the twentieth, writers
have played a profound role in drawing attention to our natural environment and
inspiring people to protect it. To continue this tradition and inspire action on
global warming, the Union of Concerned
Scientists has partnered with literary publisher Penguin Classics to encourage
the public to submit essays and images about climate change for publication in a
new online book, Thoreau's Legacy: American Stories about Global
Warming.
We want to hear from you. To participate, write a 200- to 500-word
first-person account of global warming that relates to your life or the world
around you. Is there a place that holds a special meaning to you that you
want to protect? What people, animals, or activities that you love are at risk
from a changing climate? Are you taking steps in your own life to stem the tide
of global warming? Tell us your story,
or send us a photograph related to topics like these. The best submissions will
be included in Thoreau's Legacy, which will be published online in spring
2009 and in a limited-edition hardcover version.
Two leading scientists and one of the nation's most respected nature photographers have contributed representative works to the project to serve as examples of the kind of essays and photographs we are seeking. To view them and learn how you can submit your own essay or photograph, visit the UCS website at www.ucsusa.org/americanstories
It's time for the writings of a new generation to inspire
our country to take on the challenge of global warming and save our natural-and
national-heritage. Submit your story or
photographs today. Deadline for submissions is Nov.
15.
Mike Carberry
319-594-6453