How to Get Involved in Making Your Community Better with Environmental Activism*

Environmental activism is crucial in protecting our planet from the impacts of climate change, pollution, and other environmental problems. But, while many people care about the environment, they need to learn how to get involved or make a difference.

Here are some ways to get engaged in environmental activism in your community:

Join an Environmental Group. Many organizations focus on environmental issues and put action plans together. Look for local environmental groups in your community to join. You can volunteer your time, donate money, or participate in community clean-up events.

Attend Community Meetings. Environmental activism doesn’t have to mean participating in clean-ups. Instead, try attending city council meetings, town hall meetings, and other community gatherings where ecological issues are discussed. Learn about local environmental policies and advocate for change.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint  
One of the best ways to make a difference is to reduce your carbon footprint. Reducing your carbon footprint can look like a multitude of things. You can do this by reducing energy consumption. Some examples of reducing energy consumption include:

• Using public transportation  
• Using a composter  
• Eating less meat  
• Using reusable bags and containers

Educate Yourself and Others. Read books, articles, and environmental news. If you don’t have time to sit down and read, try checking out one of the 22 Best Environmental Podcasts of 2023. Once you have done your research, try taking it a step further by sharing what you learn with others and encouraging them to get involved with you.

Organize Community Events. Host events like trash cleanups, recycling drives, and eco-friendly workshops in your community. Even if only some can participate, just spreading the word about an environmental event can help raise awareness about the issue. For those who can participate, community events are a great way to bring people together to make a positive impact.

Support Local Businesses. Look for businesses prioritizing sustainability and the environment. This includes stores that sell eco-friendly products or restaurants that source their ingredients locally.  

Avoid Express Shipping. Some studies have shown that online shopping is more environmentally friendly than traditional shopping. However, same-day or next-day delivery heavily affects the environment. Some food for thought, one van delivering 50 packages is much more efficient than 50 people driving to the store. But, according to the New York Times, same-day and next-day delivery erode this efficiency, therefore taking a more brutal toll on the environment.  

Vote for Environmental Change. Research candidates and vote for those prioritizing environmental issues. Contact your elected officials and advocate for policies that protect the environment.

By taking these steps, you can make a difference in your community and protect the environment for future generations. Remember, small actions can make a large ripple and ultimately significantly impact environmental activism. Don’t be afraid to speak out within your local and social community and ask for assistance when needed. If you are unsure where to start on a personal level, check out Earth.org for ideas about creating sustainability in your own life.  

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