Environmentalists and unions have been working together for some time now.

In 2006, the Sierra Club and the United Steelworkers (USW) formed the Blue Green Alliance, which has now expanded to include the Communication Workers of America (CWA), the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and the Laborers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA). Through this strategic partnership more than six million people unite in the pursuit of good jobs, a clean environment and a green economy.

Both union workers and environmentalists have a stake in building the new, green economy. Transforming our economy through renewable energy, energy efficiency, mass transit and rail, a new smart grid and other solutions to global warming has the potential to create millions of jobs, while reducing global warming emissions and moving America toward energy independence.

The Blue Green Alliance works on issues ranging from energy and climate change to transportation to workers' rights. Specifically, BGA is working to:

• Pass comprehensive clean energy and climate change legislation that is based on two overriding principles - the best scientific advice on reduction targets, and solutions that create and save millions of American jobs;

• Restore the rights of workers in the United States to organize and bargain collectively by passing the Employee Free Choice Act;

• Establish a 21st Century trade policy that promotes growth and prosperity across all sectors of global society and embeds enforceable labor, environmental, and human rights standards in our trade agreements.

In Central Ohio we are looking for individuals who are interested in these issues and would be willing to help in several different ways, ranging from writing a letter to the editor to attending an event or contacting their Representatives. If you would like to be part of this important alliance, please contact MacKenzie Bailey, the Ohio Blue Green Alliance Representative, or call 614-461-0734 ext. 305.