KyotoUSA is an all volunteer, grassroots organization that encourages U.S. cities and their residents to reduce the global warming greenhouse gas emissions for which they are responsible.

Global warming is the most serious threat facing the planet today. Studies conducted by the world's most respected climate scientists demonstrate that we must act collectively and immediately to make significant reductions in the the amount of greenhouse gases that we are releasing into the atmosphere. Our failure to act now will result in catastrophic and irreversible consequences for all life on this planet.

Countries around the globe are attempting to address this problem. In an agreement known as the Kyoto Protocol, most industrialized countries have agreed to cut their greenhouse gas emissions. Unfortunately, the United States steadfastly refuses to ratify the Kyoto Protocol and actively works against the efforts of the world community to reach its full implementation.

Without the active participation of the U.S., the world community's ability to slow the heating of the atmosphere is unlikely. The U.S. alone produces 25% of the world's greenhouse gases. Pressure is building on the U.S. to do its part. The U.S. House and Senate are working on legislation that will set aggressive targets for reductions in greenhouse gases. A growing number of States are forming regional alliances that will establish limits on greenhouse gas emissions.

Cities, too, are leading the way in the effort to address global warming. Local efforts, often driven by citizen advocacy, are encouraging people, businesses (large and small), schools, religious instituions and local governments throughout the U.S. to look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Thanks to the efforts of ICLEI's Local Governments for Sustainability, more than 400 U.S. cities have measured their greenhouse gas emissions, are implementing policies to reduce them, and are realizing significant financial benefits to city coffers in the process.

With the support of KyotoUSA, Berkeley officially endorsed the Kyoto Protocol in January 2005. Subsequently, Seattle Mayor Greg Nickels successfully petitioned the US Conference of Mayors to endorse his "Climate Protection Agreement" (CPA), a statement that embraces the emissions reductions targets outlined in the Kyoto Protocol. As of April 2008, over 825 U.S. mayors have signed the CPA. Local actions are beginning to resonate with Americans who are beginning to appreciate the scope and seriousness of the problem. KyotoUSA urges all U.S. cities large and small, governmental and non-governmental institutions, businesses, and individuals to undertake concrete actions now to address global warming.

See our "Tools for Climate Activists" page to learn how you can help your municipality join the ranks of other U.S. cities in taking action to address global climate change.