The safe amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is 350 ppm, according to the Mauna Loa Observatory the amount of co2 in the atmosphere as of November 2013 was 395.10 ppm. It is believed and backed by significant research, that global warming is a consequence of the increased industrial activity that’s transpired post the industrial revolution. Concluding that global warming and the disastrous effects that accompany it are largely manmade, is perceivably a difficult pill to swallow, but implies that the problem is not wholly out of our control. Sustainable behaviors can assist in addressing the very real problems that global warming presents – one such behavior would be the utilization of solar energy.

“With prices for solar energy systems dropping and abundant financial incentives for their purchase, solar energy is a better investment than ever. However, efforts to expand solar power capacity in NYC still have not taken advantage of the ability of nonprofit groups to promote solar energy to their local contacts.

Beyond Oil NYC, a nonprofit volunteer advocacy project, is offering a part time internship with flexible hours in winter/spring 2014. Interns will select a NYC neighborhood, and compile a list of its community based organizations, civic leaders and faith organizations, and contact them by phone, email and in person to enlist their participation in a marketing program for solar energy systems. The supervisor will provide the intern with abundant guidance in community organizing and program promotion. There is no salary, but may be a stipend depending on performance.

A new solar marketing program, which has been successfully tested by a business service nonprofit in Queens, encourages nonprofit groups to contact their constituents who own large buildings about installing solar power systems on their roofs. Their incentive is a referral fee – a percentage of any solar system purchase cost from any of their constituents who they contact. There is no charge for the nonprofit to participate, and all marketing materials are provided. Undergraduates with a strong interest in sustainability, resilience, urban affairs and government are invited to apply. “

Qualifications:

Experience or interest in sustainability, resilience, renewable energy and climate change response
Experience or interest in government, public policy, and urban affairs
Must be comfortable with cold calling
Must be a self starter, and be persistent
Having community connections is a plus
Experience or interest in research and / or community development
Excellent written and verbal communications skills
Excellent computer and web skills
Excellent organizational, analytical and critical thinking skills
Experience in working with community groups or small teams

To apply:

Send a cover letter and resume to [email protected].