This blog was written by Jennifer Rennicks, former Senior Director of Policy & Communications at the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.

Guest Blog | July 12, 2013 | Climate Change, Energy Policy

Last month, President Obama vowed his Administration would act on climate since Congress has failed do so.  During his impassioned speech delivered on June 25, the president urged Americans from all walks of life to rise up and demonstrate support for his climate action plan, which will include reducing carbon pollution, investing in clean energy solutions and preparing for the impacts of global warming.

Today Asheville, North Carolina was one of the very first stops in a 21-state “I Will Act on Climate” bus tour designed to highlight the impacts of climate change, the opportunities created by climate action, and the need for local action – and SACE was proud to be one of the lead organizers for this event.

The national bus tour is supported by a wide array of local, state-based, and national public health and environmental organizations as well as business leaders, climate scientists, faith leaders and national security experts.

By mid-August, when the bus finally rolls into Washington, DC, it will have hosted at least 50 events in states across the county most affected by extreme weather events that are becoming all to commonplace as an impact of climate change.

Today’s crowd in Asheville confirmed that Americans are ready to stand up in their local communities to demonstrate support for the President’s plan to limit carbon pollution under the leadership of his nominee to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Gina McCarthy, as well as celebrate the new jobs and other benefits that will come with investing in clean energy.

The bus is on its way towards Greensboro, NC and Richmond, VA this weekend and will then make stops in Wilmington, NC; Charleston, SC; Jacksonville, FL; Savannah, GA; Pensacola, FL; Mobile, AL; and New Orleans, LA in July before heading towards the Midwest and Western states. If you live near one of these Southern cities,  look out for the bus to lend your support for climate action.