The global energy system is the prime driver of climate change. To solve the climate crisis, it is urgent that we transition to renewable energy production combined with efficient use of energy. Working with the state of Colorado, the coalition’s goal is to decarbonize the state’s economy by 2030, considerably earlier than the 2050 date listed in the state documents.

COVID-19 made the fragile and inequitable nature of our food system transparent. Human health and environmental health are linked. State policies must promote regenerative farming styles and methods that restore health and vibrancy to the ecosystem. We must ensure that such methods have direct (or equal) market access.

The health impacts of COVID-19 are felt disproportionately by Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. A regenerative economy is founded on a commitment to address and remove systemic barriers. It establishes the conditions to achieve shared prosperity and provides opportunities for all voices to be heard and participate in decision making.

Colorado is an entrepreneurial birthplace, known for creating niche markets like hemp and CBD that go on to lead the nation. The shift to clean technology, arts and culture, regenerative agriculture and the other job creation engines offers Colorado the chance to create a more inclusive, resilient life for all. In the wake of COVID-19, the state should invest in the industries of the future, not those of the past.

The presence of properly located and maintained roads, bridges, airports, rail lines, broadband, power grids, sanitation and buildings are critical to a healthy economy. Even more important is our natural infrastructure, including intact ecosystems that provide our life support systems (air to breathe, water to drink, fertile soil to grow our food and climate stability). These underpin all life and all economic activity.

A circular economy is based on reclaiming raw materials that were used to create products and returning them to usefulness, keeping them from being discarded. The coalition will focus on creating jobs through supporting enterprises like recycling entrepreneurs and material end-markets in Colorado.

A regenerative recovery must protect and strengthen our democratic institutions, as well as revitalize active and inclusive civic engagement. Institutions have historically blocked access to BIPOC, resulting in systemic oppression. A regenerative recovery must prioritize access, voice and equitable opportunity to all communities, especially BIPOC.

The coalition members include representatives of for-profits, nonprofits, media, academia, state and local governments and individual citizens. The coalition will seek partnerships and collaboration across diverse boundaries. Making it happen will also take creative approaches to funding and supporting these efforts.