Climate change is here, and the human element is both the problem and the solution. The glaciers are melting, the coasts are flooding. The forests are burning, the air is changing. So where do we go from here?

We are all part of the human element, and we have the ability and responsibility to be part of the climate protection movement.

Why?

Because we are concerned and aware. We understand that climate change is not a question of what we “believe,” but about what we know, based on scientific and visual evidence.

The foundation for change is the combined power of our dynamic, imaginative, and impassioned human minds. We can and must activate the hundreds of clever tools, tactics, and strategies already at our fingertips in the realms of daily behavior, technology, politics, and finance.

The mind activates another vitally important function—the heart. If art and science can reveal the issues, it will take heart to solve them.

We all have a basic, inalienable human right to clean air, clean water, and a stable climate. No society or institution should deny people that right. Humans are a tectonic force. As much as we’ve shaped the planet for the worse, we can also build a better future. We are not destined to be only victims and villains, but also problem-solvers and change-makers.

In more specific and pragmatic terms, here are a few ideas—out of the hundreds possible—on what you can do to take part in climate protection.

USE YOUR “VOICE”

Our individual actions may seem small and insignificant alone, but when combined together, we become a force to be reckoned with. We all must resolve to do what we can, in our own ways.

Pick one action and do it. Then do another. One step at a time is the only way we can move forward, together.

VOTE

• Vote for leaders who understand the urgency of a changing climate.
• Vote for leaders who will champion climate protection and renewable energy.
• Tell your elected representatives where you stand on climate change and why it’s important to you and your community.

IN CONVERSATION

• Speak up about what’s really happening to the climate. Re-shape the understanding of friends, family, and co-workers. Use your unique talents to express your vision for the world.
• Learn the facts and how to articulate them.
• Ignite action in your community by getting involved with organizations and initiatives you believe in. Join a new community group. Organize a fundrasier. Host a film screening of THE HUMAN ELEMENT!

AT HOME

Your biggest personal carbon footprint comes from what you eat, your transportation choices, and how you heat and power your home.

• Reduce your consumption of meat and dairy and substitute it with plant protein.
• Eat locally grown, organic food if it’s available. Compost if you can!
• Walk, bike, or use public transportation when possible.
• When it’s time to buy a car, buy a high-mileage one, a hybrid, or an electric vehicle. See driveclean.ca.gov for pollution ratings on every car model.
• Support renewable energy. Most local utilities allow you to pay a little extra to support renewable energy. Do it! It’ll cost you about the same as a few cups of coffee each month.
• Add solar panels to your home.
• Change your light bulbs. LEDs are best, CFLs are second best.
• Control your gadgets! Turn off your computer, TV, and stereo when not in use. After batteries are charged, unplug the charger.
• Use energy-efficient appliances.
• Wash clothes in cold or warm water. Air-dry clothing when possible.
• Reuse and recycle. Avoid single-use plastic. Drink tap water, not bottled water, whenever possible.
• Plant trees and/or support tree planting.
• Avoid overnight and two-day shipping when online shopping.
• Support the fossil fuel divestment movement. If you invest in equities, get rid of your holdings in companies that produce, transport, or sell fossil fuels.
• To learn more about what you can do to take on climate change, visit drawdown.org/