Why take action?

We’re facing a global emergency, one that affects every aspect of life on Earth.

Human civilisation is heading toward a dangerous tipping point, and our societies are not reducing emissions fast enough to avert climate breakdown. Life as we know it, and everything we care about, is at stake.

However, we’re not powerless. We still have time to change course. Real and existing solutions that put people and the planet at the centre exist and can be deployed at scale. 

Our choice: Act or face the consequences

We can’t simply vote or wish our way to a better future. Governments and businesses have consistently failed to take adequate action, and have at times made it even harder to do so, so solely relying on them is not an option. It’s up to us to act decisively, much like waking up to a house on fire. We wouldn’t ignore the flames; we’d do everything we could to escape and save others. The same principle applies to the climate crisis. If we don’t take meaningful action now, the chances of avoiding severe climate breakdown diminish rapidly.

Thankfully, the future isn’t predetermined. If we all make changes and advocate for stronger systemic action, we still have a chance to protect the planet and all its wonders.

What’s more, by addressing the crisis, we can improve lives and societies, especially for the many who are currently left behind, and those who are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. 

Living in the Global North: A greater responsibility

If you’re living in a wealthy country or leading a high-consumption lifestyle (taking flights, driving a lot, eating meat and dairy products, living in big houses, buying lots of stuff, and so on), you might feel a bit uncomfortable right now. That’s okay. The goal isn’t to make you feel guilty – it’s to help you recognise your power to create change.

Remember: you didn’t choose how things are now, but you can choose to change them. Every day, you have opportunities to make decisions that impact our planet, by choosing:

• how you travel,
• what you eat,
• the products you buy,
• the energy you use,
• what you advocate for.

It’s important to remember that whilst individual changes are necessary and part of the solution, they are simply not enough. As we’ve seen throughout the course so far, the problems we are facing are systemic and occurring at all levels, so require solutions at all levels, including systemic solutions.

Have your say

Now, take a moment to think about your role in this challenge. What actions can you take, both in your daily life and as part of a larger movement, to help tackle the climate crisis? 

Share your thoughts and discuss with other learners in the Comments section.