Crazy Right? The largest solar energy developer in Western New York has decided not to walk out of our workplace during the Global Climate Strike. But, it isn’t because we don’t support the movement, it’s because every day we fight for the movement – we are dedicated to finding a solution to a global issue on a local level, and we don’t feel that walking out will lend to the end goal of the Climate Strike.

We find ourselves at a crossroads – we know our house is on fire, we fight it every day, because every day is Earth Day at GreenSpark Solar. We want to show support to young people like Greta Thunberg, who inspire us daily to keep fighting this fight and give us hope that the fight will not end, for there is no Planet B.

But, our mission – GreenSpark Solar, loyal to people and planet, creates fiercely local, cost-effective, clean energy options – is driven by educating our community that solar energy is a market-based solution to climate change and a smart financial decision that also helps our local economy. Just this week we’re at Monroe County Conservation Field Days, which has a goal to teach local students about important environmental issues while having fun in our beautiful parks. We Are All In!

GreenSpark Solar has joined nearly 100 progressive business leaders in the BCorp community in support of the Global Climate Strikes. We understand the gravity of the climate crisis and stand with the youth demanding bold action on global climate policy. We have also signed the Climate Action Now Statement in response to the alarming and ever-growing threat caused by the climate crisis. Our climate crisis requires action by policymakers and it’s time to use our voice as business leaders to make that call to action to local, provincial, and federal policymakers to take action. We know this is not easy, GreenSpark has been heavily involved in local, state, and federal renewable energy policy since our start in 2002, but the more voices, the louder the cry.

So, if we shut down, if we walk out, if we strike – that precious time could have been spent installing more solar panels, educating more people of all ages, voicing our opportunities to policymakers, and moving the ball closer to the goal post. Our goals are the same, and we hope and urge local companies to participate in the Climate Strike how they see fit – disrupt your day! Help your business implement sustainability goals, evaluate how you might produce less waste at home and in your workplace, or maybe, just maybe, explore your solar energy options for your business and household.

Thank You, Greta! We’ve got your back, and we’re inspired to know you have ours.

Keep an eye out as we’ve challenged GreenSpark employees to share some of the actions they take in their daily lives, outside of being solar champions, to be good stewards to the environment.