Why is Individual Impact Important?

So much of the Climate Change news today is discouraging. People see that the ocean's on fire and think, my metal straw won't change this so why even bother? Here's the thing: will individual changes in lifestyle solve Climate Change? No. Not alone. There needs to be government and corporate changes in order to stop Climate Change.

 

However, that doesn't mean individual impact is worthless.

 

That doesn't mean you should stop caring.

 

Many people don't have the resources to make big sweeping changes, and not everyone should be expected to. People can only do as much as they can do, and that action should be celebrated.

 

Why? Because a lot of little action brings attention to an issue. Individuals change culture. Culture puts pressure on other people to make change. Education means that something is no longer hidden. Action won't happen unless people know about the issues, and they want action to happen.

 

In addition, not everything has to be about solving Climate Change. In the end, yes, this is something that must be solved. But along the way there are little battles that anyone can take on.

 

Care a lot about a local bird? Set up bird houses and native gardens, and encourage your neighbors to do the same.

 

Want to see less trash in a nearby river? Hold a cleanup. Figure out where most of the trash is coming from.

 

Educate people on why this is important. Talk to nearby companies that might be contributing to the pollution. Teach others to appreciate the river. Not everything has to be “the big fight.” So much of climate news is discouraging, so be the encouraging news. Inspire others with what you can do at home.