Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Campaign to Stop Dangerous Climate Change Seeks Volunteers


The international grassroots movement 350.org, an Open Society Institute grantee, is running a global campaign focused on stopping dangerous climate change. The goal is to pressure world leaders to negotiate an agreement bringing carbon dioxide levels back to the safe level of 350 parts per million (ppm).

On October 24, thousands of communities around the world will host events linked together by a common visual—the number 350—which will be displayed at every action. Already, 350s have popped up all over the world, but 350.org needs more. They are inviting individuals to take on an important part of this campaign, called Project Mobilize: 350txt.

Project Mobilize


Project Mobilize is a text message (SMS) campaign to support the October 24 day of climate action.

The project seeks volunteers to facilitate two-way conversations via SMS globally. 350.org will send volunteers a t-shirt, an SMS modem, and a small list of domestic supporter mobile numbers, and help pay for the SIM card and SMS credit vouchers over the next few months. In return, Project Mobilize asks the following from node hosts:

  • Keep your computer on, have FrontlineSMS open, and be connected to the internet 24 hours/day, 7 days/week (it can be an old computer you leave in the corner of a room or garage)

  • Follow the instructions in the Project Mobilize guide carefully to ensure your node is set up correctly. Email 350txt@350.org with any questions.

  • Find out which Telco in your country provides the cheapest SMS rates in-country, and purchase a SIM card (350.org can help pay)

  • Monitor the credit. Before the credit runs out, you will need to purchase more credit, so the node is always functioning (350.org can help pay.)

  • Advertise the SMS number and keywords associated with your node online and at events leading up to October 24.

Become a Host

If you're interested in hosting a 350txt node in your country, please fill out the following questionnaire: http://bit.ly/prjctmobilize.

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