Embracing Change

Dear Partners in Green,

When it comes to changing our habits as a means of addressing the Climate Crisis, we often hear the argument that it is not the responsibility of individuals, but rather the responsibility of the fossil fuel industry, along with the banks and political leaders. The sentiment seems to be that any action on our part is futile, that we cannot make a difference, it is out of our control.

I found an article from the Sierra Club by Jason Mark that may be useful in responding to these nay-sayers, and encourage us to keep on track when it comes to “living green.”

Some key points:

• By failing to address the connection between our actions in regard to climate change, we may be less willing to take on the work of transitioning because we will not have been prepared for the profound effects living in a “green” economy will have on our daily lives.
• Having little connection between environmental activism and the daily experience of living “green” may result in fewer people becoming politically active.
• A “green” economy may lead to overall improvements, but many may see it as sacrifice and thus be resistant and distrustful. (Considering today’s political climate, this seems likely.)

Mark believes it is important for the “environmental movement to keep insisting that individual behavior changes are not only righteous but required.” In addition, he writes, “Such real talk opens the way to having a public conversation about how to fairly navigate the changes to come. Honesty and transparency are political assets.”

He continues, “When you choose to eat less meat or take the bus instead of driving or have fewer children, you are making a statement that your actions matter, that it’s not too late to avert climate catastrophe, that you have power. To take a measure of personal responsibility for climate change doesn’t have to distract from your political activism – if anything it amplifies it.”

I encourage you to read the full article referenced below and to tackle the “to do” list, a combination of social activism and “living green.”

• Join an environmental organization such as the Sierra Club, the Nature Conservancy, World Wildlife Federation, or the Audubon Society.
• Write an op-ed piece for your local paper.
• Call or write your Senators and Congresspersons.
• Do not live “green” behind closed doors. Let people know the life choices you are making, and why.
• If you belong to a religious organization, encourage the members to “go green” and for the organization to adopt a climate care covenant.
• If you are not a vegetarian, go meatless two days a week, maybe three.
• Begin a conversation with a young person about caring for the Earth, and listen to what the child has to say.
• Write a poem. Share it.

Now, a song from the ’90s, a bit long, but a lesson still.
*Lyrics may be found below footnotes.

Wishing peace and health to you and your loved ones.

Thank you for being on this journey.

Till next time,
Beth