Welcome to Open Spaces
Open Spaces is a forum for voices that speak with knowledge and understanding of matters currently affecting all of us.
“When artists, entrepreneurs, and agents of social change cluster, they look for forums where they can interact and be challenged and provoked. In Cascadia, Open Spaces plays this role. It is where thoughtful people publish essays that push readers to think outside their comfort zones.”
— Denis Hayes, coordinator of the first Earth Day
and current president of the Bullitt Foundation
No constitutional office of the United States is bestowed by the formal approval of fewer people than federal judge. How can it be that such government officials enjoy substantial power yet effectively answer neither to the people nor to Congress? Learn about Judicial Activism.
“When the U.S. Senate passed my Clean Energy for America Act last year as the centerpiece of the Inflation Reduction Act, I had to pinch myself after the floor vote.
“The victory for this landmark legislation stands out as a tribute to how young Americans and their allies of all ages came together successfully in one powerful and unified voice to demand action before it’s too late on the climate crisis.”
Senator Wyden recaps the key points of this monumental legislation leading us towards a clean energy future.
For some, attitudes about nuclear energy are changing as the realities of the climate crisis become more apparent and urgent.
Here’s one view on the reasons to consider nuclear power.
In response to those favoring nuclear power as part of the answer to climate change, one energy expert—although not against continued exploration—explains why nuclear energy isn’t currently the answer.
What CAN we do NOW about climate change? An Expert Speaks.
An insightful, passionate and entertaining examination of how voters make political decisions, and of what any party or politician needs to do to win their allegiance.
A moment of refuge in our environmental legacy as observed by Oregon’s ninth Poet Laureate.
Top: Cherry Blossoms
A welcome to spring and sunnier days ahead.
To see more of Harry’s work, visit his photography showcase.
International Climate Change
For updates, visit the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) website, where one can find Summaries for Policy Makers from recent and upcoming Synthesis Reports.
Photo: Visible Earth, NASA