On Nov. 30 world leaders met in Paris to begin negotiations on the changing climate. With pressure from citizens around the world at an all-time high, we should be optimistic for the results of the Paris talks.

An Associated Press story (Herald, Nov. 30) described the role of the U.S. as a world leader in these negotiations. With the climate science in, and the world’s faith leaders calling us to action, we need the United States to lead in Paris.

The AP story mentioned the Green Climate Fund, designed to help countries develop low carbon infrastructure. Obama has pledged to support this fund, but the money is controlled by Congress. In a rare effort of bipartisanship, Sens. Mark Kirk, R-Ill. and Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., have offered a plan to make a down payment in 2016 to the Green Climate Fund. This commitment would give the U.S. the negotiating power we need to make real change in Paris.

Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., has not actively supported the Green Climate Fund, but he has not joined the group of Republicans attempting to undermine the ability of the U.S. to negotiate in Paris. I urge citizens of Colorado who are concerned for the future of our country and our Earth to call Sen. Gardner and tell him why it is so important that he take a stance and support the Green Climate Fund.

Climate change is happening, but there is still time to find solutions, with the right leadership.

Scott Greenler

Durango