The much anticipated UN Climate Conference (also known as COP 21) officially began this week in Paris. More than 100 world leaders met in Paris on Monday to kick off two weeks of negotiations aimed at forging an international agreement to fight climate change. Although the agreement itself won’t be enough to save the world from the effects of climate change altogether, if all goes well it will be a very important first step. For more information, be sure to check out this info sheet from the New York Times>>

Surrounding the UN Climate Conference are a whole host of activist activities and events being held in Paris to push the negotiators to take action and finally agree on a deal. Austin’s interfaith community has joined in on that, sending Yaira Robinson and Bee Moorhead from Texas Interfaith Power and Light. They are in Paris right now and are sharing daily updates on their experiences with the Austin EcoNetwork on their Boots ‘N’ Berets Blog, which you can check out here>>

Also surrounding the UN Climate Conference is the Climate Summit for Local Leaders, also happening in Paris this week. Austin Mayor Steve Alder, City Council Member Leslie Pool (District 7), and Travis County Commissioner Brigid Shea are all in Paris for the summit, discussing ways that cities can contribute to the global fight against climate change. The Austin EcoNetwork will also be sharing updates from our local leaders in Paris as we get them. So stay tuned!