Taking action on climate change: Why me? Why now?

As we make these personal changes, our circles of influence will widen, and we can begin effecting change in our communities and local governments. And now, thanks to the Internet, one’s efforts need not stop at neighbourhood borders: our outreach and discussions can take place at whatever level we choose, crossing borders geographical, political, and social.

In addition, citizens in democratic countries hold an even greater responsibility: the power of the vote. By raising our collective electoral voice on behalf of future generations, we can make powerful inroads on these issues.

Many not-for-profit organisations offer programs solely focused on informing voters about judicial proceedings, issuing virtual calls for action when key legislation comes up for consideration. This is a simple, free, yet immensely effective way for you to exercise your power as a citizen.

Get involved: write to your politicians, locally and nationally, on these matters. Encourage political participation, both by educated voters and by those willing to enter the public arena on behalf of these issues. And when election time rolls around, find out where local politicians stand, help educate the public about their platforms, and vote accordingly.

The power of the vote does not stop at governments. We have another way to vote: by “putting our money where our mouths are” and choosing to shop for and invest in environmentally friendly and sustainable technologies and products. In publicly traded companies, educated and committed shareholders hold the cards - and have the chance to hold companies responsible while guiding them to more socially and environmentally sustainable practices. In addition, actively support those industries and initiatives already working in this direction - and encourage those within your circle of influence to do the same.

The need for action is more urgent than ever. Scientists, well known for their cautiously conservative approach to such matters, recognise this necessity as so compelling that they’ve begun to quantify their calls for action. Many are saying that intensive initiatives must be taken within the next 10 years to avoid approaching - and crossing - an environmental tipping point. As Kofi Annan said at the November COP in Nairobi, “The question is not whether climate change is happening but whether, in the face of this emergency, we ourselves can change fast enough”.

We can change - and we can make a difference. But, this change will require individual, personal commitment and discipline. Once we make that commitment, the next steps of education, outreach, and action will follow as second nature. Take that first step: get committed. The time is now, and you are here. You can make a difference. Each of us can.