The International Climate Change Summit in Copenhagen is not just for
politicians. http://whowantstobe.co.uk/ is a UK website that is
allowing people from around the world to propose any and all ideas to
curtail global warming. Out of that, the 10 best ideas will be
compiled and listed online. On December 18th, the last day of the
conference, a live studio audience of 300 people in Copenhagen will
vote in tandem with an internet audience of infinite amount.
In order to propose an idea, a minimum of US $10 must be pledged to
The Planet Pledge Pyramid organized by People Speak. So far with seven
days to go, 77 people have pledged $1,240. The minimum goal is $3,000.
All the money raised will go towards implementing the best idea as
selected by the audience and users at home.
The show is called Who Wants To Be? Inspired from the game show,
Who Wants To Be a Millionaire?, it is based on the idea that large
groups of people can come together and select a good idea. While this
concept very much depends on the people, if it were a group of smart,
dedicated individuals working towards helping the environment, positive
change should arise. The show has had good results in the past, but
those were on much smaller levels. They usually involved an audience of
100 people donating money, and using that $1,000 for a communal cause.
They have yet to endeavor into a cause of this magnitude and scope.
Despite the game show feel and the idea that it’s all about having
fun, there can be real, tangible results if enough people get
involved. At best, a lot of money will be raised and will be invested
toward an effort to the effects of global warming, gaining the
attention of politicians and leaders. Even at worst, should the group
not make a substantial impact on the world stage, people will be
exposed to new ideas and new perspectives from around the world. And
it should be entertaining. A more moderate outcome is most likely, as
there will be an exchange of ideas and money moved towards a good
cause.
As American anthropologist and writer Margaret Mead famously said,
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can
change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
