I'm counting the days until the end of February – and not just because it'll be closer to spring. In a few weeks, I'll be joining 10,000 of my peers at Power Shift 2009 in Washington, DC. -- to talk climate and lobby Congress members to enact the clean energy policies our country needs now.

Environmental conferences take place all the time, but what sets this one apart for me is the chance to see all types of young people with separate interests but a common goal: to take our country's energy economy in a new direction. This year, you'll see high school kids on their gap years and graduate students wrapping up their theses; students from abroad and students who never left the US. They may have different environmental interests, but they all know what's at stake: their futures.



When students gather to discuss global warming at this year's conference on Feb. 27th- March 2, they'll also get a crash course in conservation. They'll discuss how and why some parts of their states are drying, wetlands are shrinking and wildlife species are approaching extinction. They'll strategize on restoring our natural resources for themselves and their children.

Most importantly, they'll be able to pass that knowledge onto their elected officials, urging Congress to make a way for a clean energy economy that they will soon lead – one that will preserve our land and its inhabitants for the future.

Check out the Power Shift blog to hear more about why others are planning on attending --- and keep the momentum going by registering yourself. More students and young people have already committed to attend than Power Shift 2007, and I hope to see you there!