Barack Obama’s inauguration speech was a message of the change that has occurred within the federal government as well as a call to action for every American. Along with his plans for the economy, the nation’s infrastructure, and foreign relations, Obama addressed environmentally sustainable development: global warming, over consumption of resources, creating a new, “smart” energy grid fed by renewable sources.

In his opening statements, Obama declared the need for an energy revolution in the United States: “the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.” Oil imports are quickly losing popularity on both sides of the aisle due to the double edged sword Obama mentions—oil dependency on the one side, and climate change on the other—but it’s still reassuring to hear him continue to call for a change even with plummeting oil prices and a struggling economy. There has been speculation that the current situation would relegate environmentally sustainable development to the back burner; however, Obama’s address reaffirms his commitment to help America get on a sustainable path to long-term growth.

One line of the speech in particular caught my attention, almost summarizing the best case scenario for Obama’s presidency: “Your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy.” In his speech Obama outlined what he plans to build: stronger schools, roads, and health care, a society with greater equality of opportunity, and a 21st century energy market. The quote was aimed at international heads of state, but also clearly drew a line between he and his predecessor. If Obama can accomplish his goals then certainly he will be remembered for what he builds, while the last President will likely be remembered for the things he destroyed—both literally and figuratively.

“Nor can we consume the world’s resources without regard to effect. The world has changed, and we must change with it.” The gauntlet has been thrown, and now it is time to step up to the task before us.