Written by Climate Action & Advocacy
Here’s the truth: consumer choices alone won’t fix everything. But they have power. Combining those choices with community action, advocacy, and shifts in daily habits will build momentum for real change.
Ready to be part of the change you want? Start with What You Can Control
Big changes are difficult. Start small. Don’t aim for perfection; focus on what’s within your control. Your capabilities will grow over time.
Set an Example
These small shifts add up, and they set an example for those around you.
- Reduce waste where you can. Switch to reusable bags, water bottles, and containers. Choose items with less packaging. And, when possible, compost your food scraps.
- Support businesses that align with your values. Look for local shops, secondhand stores, and companies with strong sustainability commitments.
- Be mindful of energy use. Turn off lights, unplug devices, and consider energy-efficient appliances. Explore options for solar power or home energy audits.
- Reevaluate how you get around. Try Walking, biking, carpooling, or using public transit when possible. It cuts emissions and often saves money.
- Talk about it. Share what you’re learning with friends and family in a way that sparks curiosity and conversation.
Join Forces: Strength in Numbers – Action & Advocacy
With climate action and advocacy, individual choices are important, but with climate action and advocacy, real change happens when people come together.
Here are two networks of climate change organizations to get you started. In the U.S>. and Canada, organizations work on every aspect of sustainability. Joining one can amplify your impact.
Zero Waste Organizations – Groups like The Story of Stuff and Plastic Pollution Coalition focus on reducing plastic and waste at a systemic level.
Local Environmental Groups – Many communities have grassroots sustainability groups working on projects like community composting, beach cleanups, and waste reduction.
Sustainable Food Networks – Look into community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, farmers’ markets, or food rescue groups that divert edible food from waste.
Advocacy Groups – Organizations like Environmental Defence Canada and The David Suzuki Foundation push for stronger environmental policies.
Getting involved doesn’t always mean big commitments. Try smaller things like joining and sharing an email list. Donate. Attend a single crucial meeting.
Speak Up: Make Your Voice Heard
Consumer demand influences companies. However, policies and regulations are the foundations for real change. That means contacting decision-makers and making sure they know sustainability matters to you.
Climate Action & Advocacy – Who to Contact
Your Local Government – Municipal policies on waste collection, recycling programs, and green energy initiatives often have the most immediate impact. Therefore, find out who represents you and ask about their environmental commitments.
Provincial/Federal Representatives. -Issues like single-use plastics bans, extended producer responsibility (making companies accountable for the waste they create), and clean energy policies are often decided at higher levels. Again, numbers count. Sometimes. In this instance, simple emails or calls can make a difference.
Companies You Buy From. – For example, a brand you like packages wastefully. Or has questionable sustainability practices. Make sure to let them know you’d like to see better choices. Many companies track customer feedback closely.
How to Start the Conversation: Not sure where to start?
For Politicians:
“I support stronger waste reduction policies, like better recycling infrastructure and a ban on unnecessary plastic packaging. What is your stance on this?”
For Companies:
“I love your products. My concern is about the amount of plastic packaging. Are you working on more sustainable alternatives?”
For Your Community:
“I’d love to see more composting options in our area. Does anyone know of local initiatives, or is there interest in starting one?”
The Ripple Effect of Small Actions
It’s easy to underestimate the power of small, everyday choices. Change rarely happens all at once. It builds over time, sparked by people who decide to do things differently.
With more sustainable choices, you’re not just reducing your waste. You’re setting an example.
By joining a local group, you’re strengthening a movement. Speaking up pushes policies in the right direction.
Not every action will feel big, and not every effort will be immediately rewarding. But if enough people take steps, the shift becomes undeniable.
So pick a starting point. And remember—real change doesn’t come from waiting for someone else to fix things. It comes from everyday people deciding to be part of the solution.