Experts agree that tackling the climate crisis requires large-scale systemic change. But as individuals, we can help push those in positions of power to take action.
It’s easy to feel powerless in the face of the climate crisis. While individual actions, like going vegan, or cycling instead of driving, don’t hurt, science shows they won’t be enough to solve the problem alone.
You can contribute, however, by using your voice and your vote to push for the kinds of large-scale, systemic changes we need to survive.
Tackling the climate crisis will require sweeping changes
Tackling the climate crisis will require sweeping changes
Ensuring that decarbonisation happens sooner rather than later will require new laws, and new government investment in clean, green technology. Raising your voice in support can help this process along.
Write to your lawmakers at local, county or state and national level. Let them know you want them to make the climate crisis a priority, and that you – as a constituent – want to see concrete action.
A hand-written letter can have even more impact, because, you know, who does that any more?
Laur Hesse Fisher
Program Director, Environmental Solutions Initiative, MIT
Cutting your carbon footprint won’t solve the problem. But it can be a good place to start
Cutting your carbon footprint won’t solve the problem. But it can be a good place to start
Individual actions will never be enough to make a serious dent in greenhouse gas emissions without widespread systemic change. However, making changes to your lifestyle can be a good place to start – especially if they help spark conversations with family, and friends, and get others involved in advocating for climate justice.
Personal actions can be meaningful starting points, they can also be dangerous stopping points.
Mary Annaïse Heglar
Essayist and climate justice activist, writing for Vox