Timberland’s new climate change campaign ‘gets things done’

Timberland’s new political campaign, “Don’t Tell Us It Can’t Be Done,” takes a hard-hitting approach to socio-political change in line with next month’s COP15.

This December, the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference is supposed to ratify a new global climate change treaty – to essentially replace the soon-to-expire Kyoto protocol. Labeled “COP15″, the Copenhagen summit is a tremendous opportunity to take action on climate change.

Yet, the blogosphere has been on fire lately regarding the upcoming event – with only weeks to go and with so much on the line, governments from 192 nations around the world are beginning to send out signals suggesting that no lasting-treaties will be formed.

Through the “Don’t Tell Us It Can’t Be Done” campaign, Timberland hopes to rally the power of individuals and consumers around the world to affect this process positively by challenging government leaders to set standards for emissions.

The popular clothing and apparel brand is essentially challenging world leaders in attendance at COP15 to commit to reducing global emissions – even if that means a cap and trade system. Even with the restrictions that such a model could produce, Timberland is confident that it would force innovation in industries everywhere and that businesses, as problem solvers, would find a way to adapt without passing the cost to the consumer.

No stranger to responsible business, Timberland has worked to improve lighting design, using renewable energy sources at Timberland facilities and building all new US stores to LEED specifications. The company has also reduced its direct carbon emissions by 27% since 2006 – all while achieving cost savings.

Take action

Visit www.donttellusitcantbedone.com, Facebook.com/timberland or Earthkeeper.com to make your voice heard via an online petition that asks world leaders to come to an agreement on fair and binding climate legislation that clearly sets a limit for greenhouse gas emissions; and then asks them to step aside and let businesses innovate and lead the way to finding solutions to achieve those limits.

“Businesses will find a way to make environmentally conscious products and profits at the same time,” reads the site. “But government needs to act now. They need to set the standards. If you agree, join us. Your voice will be heard at December’s Copenhagen conference on climate control.”

In addition to signing the petition, visitors can learn about other ways to address climate change or stay up-to-date with happenings at the conference from December 7 – 18. An on-the-ground correspondent will be providing daily updates and exclusive interviews at www.donttellusitcantbedone.com.