Organizing around one goal: reducing carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.How low can you go? That's the question environmentalists will be asking world leaders when they gather in Copenhagen, Denmark, in December to hash out a new global climate treaty mandating how drastically countries will slash their greenhouse gas emissions. Galvanized by NASA scientist James Hansen, a growing number of advocates are pushing an ambitious target: 350 parts per million, which they say is the maximum concentration of carbon dioxide we can support in our atmosphere if we want to prevent the most catastrophic effects of climate change.Carbon particles trap heat from the sun, causing a cascade of threats to Earth: the melting of glaciers, an increase in droughts, and possibly the spread of mosquito-borne disease. The atmosphere currently contains 385 ppm of CO2-and that number is climbing. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has identified a higher-and more politically feasible-450 ppm cap to stop global warming.Budding environmental scientist Ryan Hottle, 26, decided he wouldn't wait for the meeting in Copenhagen. "We're not moving fast enough right now to avoid dangerous and potentially catastrophic climate change," he says. With a group of fellow students at Columbia University and $4,000 from its climate and society program, Hottle held a 350 conference in May that attracted, fittingly, 350 academics and concerned citizens. In addition to scientists, like Hansen, the Columbia conference featured Majora Carter of the environmental justice group Sustainable South Bronx and Kevin Conrad, environmental ambassador for Papua New Guinea, both voices that, Hottle notes, "often get left out of these very scientific conferences."Other consciousness-raising events are being organized by the 350.org campaign-which inspired Hottle's efforts. On October 24, community activists around the world will stage activities about the Copenhagen summit, the 350 ppm emissions target, and alternative energy sources (like wind and solar power) that could make it a reality. Says Hottle: "You hope momentum builds to say, ‘Hey, we can't shoot for 450. We may have to look to more robust ways to cut carbon emissions.'"Return to interactive site
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This response to someone grieving a friend might be the best internet comment ever
When someone is hit with the sudden loss of a friend or loved one, words rarely feel like enough. Yet, more than a decade ago, a wise Redditor named GSnow shared thoughts so profound they still bring comfort to grieving hearts today.
Originally posted around 2011, the now-famous reply was rediscovered when Upvoted, an official Reddit publication, featured it again to remind everyone of its enduring truth. It began as a simple plea for help: “My friend just died. I don't know what to do.”
What followed was a piece of writing that many consider one of the internet’s best comments of all time. It remains shared across social media, grief forums, and personal messages to this day because its honesty and metaphor speak to the raw reality of loss and the slow, irregular path toward healing.
Below is GSnow’s full reply, unchanged, in all its gentle, wave-crashing beauty:
Why this advice still matters
Mental health professionals and grief counselors often describe bereavement in stages or phases, but GSnow’s “wave theory” gives an image more relatable for many. Rather than a linear process, grief surges and retreats—sometimes triggered by a song, a place, or a simple morning cup of coffee.
In recent years, this metaphor has found renewed relevance. Communities on Reddit, TikTok, and grief support groups frequently reshare it to help explain the unpredictable nature of mourning.
Many readers say this analogy helps them feel less alone, giving them permission to ride each wave of grief rather than fight it.
Finding comfort in shared wisdom
Since this comment first surfaced, countless people have posted their own stories underneath it, thanking GSnow and passing the words to others facing fresh heartbreak. It’s proof that sometimes, the internet can feel like a global support group—strangers linked by shared loss and hope.
For those searching for more support today, organizations like The Dougy Center, GriefShare, and local bereavement groups offer compassionate resources. If you or someone you know is struggling with intense grief, please reach out to mental health professionals who can help navigate these deep waters.
When grief comes crashing like the ocean, remember these words—and hang on. There is life between the waves.
This article originally appeared four years ago.