When the sky turned orange in September 2020 and our forests burned, many of us felt a sense of helplessness. Some, hopelessness.
We checked in on family and friends, watched for evacuation orders, and refreshed the air quality index page multiple times a day. Neighbors just a county over from us died.
Tackling climate change can feel overwhelming., but according to author and environmental policy expert Heather White, there is something each of us can do. In fact, White claims, we each possess a “superpower” that helps us make small, daily actions toward reversing climate change.
As part of Oregon State University’s Beyond Earth Day calendar, White will be talking with Rare president and CEO Brett Jenks on April 19 at 11:00 a.m. about the role individuals play in helping to save the planet. White’s new book, One Green Thing, comes out that same day.
With wildfires and extreme weather getting more attention in the news and popping into our conversations, there has still been some confusion and anxiety as to the best approach to climate change, but also how to protect ourselves against what seem to be annual life-threatening events. Many have taken a doomsday stance, while others have called for a more positive and personal approach to change.
Even though the conversation with White isn’t until later this month, you don’t have to wait to take action. The website OneGreenThing.org offers a quick assessment for anyone who wants to learn where their skills and passions lie in the fight for a more sustainable planet.
Each assessment comes with a 21-day cheat sheet for what you can do right now to start making a difference. Whether you are a social media influencer – which, let’s admit, most of us are not – a fundraiser or a community builder, there’s work to be done.
By Peggy Perdue
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