The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), an official scientific body of the United Nations has established the

fact that the earth can utmost tolerate a 2 degree centigrade rise in global average temperature. Since the industrial revolution began in the 18th century, the temperature has already risen by 0.8 degrees centigrade. Humanitys unsustainable consumption of fossil fuels i.e coal, petroleum and natural gas is the primary cause for global warming. At our present rate of consumption and burning of fossil fuels, the 2 degree rise in global temperature will be reached by 2050, and it isnt an exaggeration when we say that all our lives will be harmed by unprecedented changes in our environment. This is to draw your attention towards the critical scenario in Andhra Pradesh. At a time when many states and nations across the world are moving away from coal, it is sad that we still rely on it and even worse, we are planning to build more coal fired thermal power plants in the years to come. The fact that coal is cheap and easily available is a myth now. The global coal prices have risen, and the quantity of good quality coal is fast declining. This in turn results in price rise and burdens the common man. On the other hand, wind and solar energy prices are only coming down and with Govt. intervention, we can make sure each household can start using clean energy. The Government has to facilitate the usage of energy sources like the wind, solar and biomass, encourage research to tap the available renewable energy potential and provide financial support to enhance its usage. Further, it is needed that the Government frame renewable energy based policies and implements them to their potential. It is also important that the climate and energy policy discussions and action plans be made public and they should reach the masses to encourage more participation and raise awareness. It is heartening, that the transition towards sustainable development has already started in some parts of the state. For instance, Tirupati has the largest solar cooking establishment in the world. In Hyderabad itself, we have solar street lights being used and green buildings are being constructed. In this context, there is every possibility to accelerate such a change towards better future, with proper planning and implementation of green technology. We are writing to seek your Governments assurance that all the proposed coal fired power plants along the coastline in Andhra Pradesh will be put on hold until the states real energy needs and alternate renewable energy plans are understood and realized. The undersigned are young people who will be 60 years old by 2050 and the world will be a dangerous place if we do not stop consuming polluting fossil fuels like coal now! We hope that under your leadership, Andhra Pradesh adopts and clean renewable energy future. 350.org