Following up on Eli's post, I would point out that it's not just individual Americans who are well ahead of the politicians on energy and climate change. American businesses are also realizing that there's no future in the dirty fossil fuel economy, that we need to move towards a green economy, and that this will require bold action from Washington.

Here's a good example: our campaign ally Greenpeace is hosting the Businesses for a Safe Climate petition, where businesses can declare their support for a bold climate agenda. As of today, over 3,300 businesses from all over the country have signed the petition. I've included the text of the petition below. If you own or represent a business and would like to sign the petition, click here.

As a business owner, it concerns me that Congress has yet to take serious action on global warming. Leading scientists and economists have identified the steps that we need to take in order to curb global warming and move toward the prosperity of a green economy. I call on Congress to follow these steps and pass legislation that will...

1) Create 5 million Green Jobs in order to conserve 20% of our energy by 2015 and create pathways out of poverty for people.

2) Freeze climate pollution levels now, then cut by at least 25% below 1990 levels by 2020 and 80% by 2050.

3) End development of new coal plants that emit global warming pollution. Pivot boldly away from fossil fuel dependence, and toward a clean energy future with strong standards and incentives for energy efficiency and renewable energy.

_______________ believes in being a responsible member of the community. As such, we commit to examine and create a plan to reduce our carbon footprint in order to minimize our impact on the environment. We are doing our part, now it's time for Congress to do theirs."

Here's a list of businesses that have signed on; as you can see, it's a diverse mix of industries from all over the country. Pizzerias, limo services, auto dealers, plumbers, real estate brokers—they all understand the urgency of the moment and the need for decisive action. The petition will be delivered to Congress on September 9th, so if you own or represent a business, sign it today!