The Power of Paper

                                                                                                                                                               It has long been understood that in order to avoid the consequences of global warming, action needs to come not only from individual and local levels, but also from a federal one.  While the American and Canadian governments have been among the more inactive countries in fighting climate change, their citizens have continued to find ways to save water, energy, and food.  This week, those governments look to work with others to finally take reasonable and significant action.  Negotiators from 192 countries have descended on Copenhagen, Denmark to find common ground and leave with a substantial climate deal.  And so far talks are optimistic. 

Though these discussions are taking place on a global plane, there is still something that individuals can do to have an influence: write letters.  Members of Provincial Parliament in Canada, and members of Congress in the United States are influenced, for better or worse, by their constituents.  When enough of them voice their concerns with a particular issue, representatives will make that issue a new priority.  It sounds simple, but these are the politicians working directly for the people, and should they fail to deliver on a top issue, they risk losing support and losing their seat. Despite all the advances in technology with new social mediums such as Facebook and Twitter as ways to connect with governmental leaders, politicians still respond to formal, direct letters written by concerned citizens. 

It doesn’t take long to write a letter to a representative, but it should take care.  To effectively capture attention, the letter should be a well-written, articulate collection of thoughts and concerns urging the government to take action.  If a citizen is in charge of a small business, an official letter head should be used to represent not only the individual, but the company as well. A letter shows that the issues addressed is of very particular importance.  Emails are easy to send off, and adding a name to a Facebook cause takes even less effort.  A letter with a formal greeting and proper formatting takes time, and is an underrated, yet highly effective tool. 

World leaders are not directly accessible, but citizens have both the right and responsibility to express their concerns to their representative.  MPP’s and Congressmen are only as passionate as the people whom they represent. 

After composing the letter, of course, it should be printed on eco-friendly paper.  And this should be made known. Recycled paper is readily available online and at many stores.  Big name corporations such as Office Max, Canadian Tire and Staples sell recycled products to consumers.  Moreover, there are environmentally-friendly companies that cater to businesses and offer a wide range of office supplies, including paper. 

To gain the necessary attention of politicians, it is important to not only identify the actions that need to take place, but set examples as well.  In urging the government to do what it right, representatives and their offices should also be encouraged to use some of the many eco-friendly business products that are available. There is still hope that dedicated individuals can effectively influence those with the power and the purse to make necessary change.