Welcome back to the weekly Climate Dispatch! We hope you had a restful holiday season with loved ones. In these challenging times, it’s essential to center what matters most: defending our democracy, protecting the most vulnerable Vermonters, reducing the prevalence of planet-harming fossil fuels, and advancing a just, clean energy future that works for everyone. 

Since last year’s legislative session came to a close, we’ve seen unmatched enthusiasm from Vermonters to get involved in these critical times. As we kick off 2026 with a new legislative session, it’s vital that we keep up the momentum for this people-powered effort to make tangible forward progress on key goals and defend against damaging rollbacks – including on essential climate action. 

Today’s Episode

In this session’s first Climate Dispatch, we speak with the Assistant Senate Majority Leader and Climate Solutions Caucus Co-Chair, Senator Becca White (D-Windsor), about what we can expect heading into this legislative session and what she hopes is possible. 

Call to Action

We know that to make further progress possible, we will need the support of Vermonters like you. Which is why we’re excited to release the 2026 Environmental Common Agenda next week. The Common Agenda is a co-crafted blueprint supported by over 20 organizations with shared goals for the 2026 legislative session aimed at ensuring a more just, clean, and affordable future for Vermonters. On Thursday, January 15th at 12:00 PM, please join a coalition of Common Agenda partners in a webinar to hear the topline priorities and ideas for what you can do to stand up in these crucial times. We hope you can join us! 

Thank you for ALL you do!

Johanna Miller & Dan Fingas

Vermont Natural Resources Council 

Vermont Conservation Voters