Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.
-Margaret Mead
Be an advocate for change.
We’ve learned about the causes of climate change, the impact it's having on health and the outcomes that are scientifically predicted, which are indeed sobering & happening right now. We’ve also learned that throwing around facts and figures isn't enough - it often has the opposite affect on people. What matters is what we can do to take action in our own lives & communities. What matters are the choices we make. We have the ability to stop the damage & change the future, if we take action.
Have you noticed people all around the world are talking, walking and standing up to corrupt politics and policies that are harmful to us and our environment - it’s powerful & inspiring! And while we have 100% control over our personal choices & behaviors, we can’t create a sustainable future alone. We have to do it together by joining forces and speaking out to change the things we can no longer accept.
Our local governments must be held accountable to preserve & protect our fragile ecosystems and make economically smart, sustainable investments for our future and the future of our children. For instance, city building plans need to mitigate against increasing pollution from constant car traffic & stop permitting new, dangerous gas infrastructure, especially in dense urban environments. Landscaping plans need to focus on organic practices, plenty of shade and climate resiliency with native plants.
The health and safety of all people needs to be protected by creating more affordable, clean energy housing with access to electric chargers, organic food waste recycling & public transportation. It’s aspirational, but wouldn’t it be healthier if communities followed well-being initiatives like Blue Zone Projects? Imagine living in a neighborhood designed to include healthy groceries, essentials and recreation - all within walking and biking distance!
Companies also need to do their part and stop producing wasteful, unhealthy products that harm our environment. We are drowning in toxic pollution and recycling our way out of it is not an option.
So yep, we absolutely need systemic change. But that doesn’t mean individuals are powerless. It’s actually the opposite. Our individual choices & actions have collective impact because they can (and will!) motivate & inspire others, but we need to learn more, talk & take action.