Water drops
Just as ripples spread from a single drop of water, individual actions can have influence far beyond their seeming importance. (File Photo)
Noted climate scientist and committed Christian, Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, gave a TED Talk titled, "The most important thing you can do to fight climate change: talk about it."
Creation Justice ident
You are a trusted source. What you say influences others. So, do the "most important thing" and talk about what you are doing for creation justice and how your concerns and your actions are rooted in your love of God and love of neighbor.
A revered spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, reminds us, “Just as ripples spread out when a single pebble is dropped into water, the actions of individuals can have far-reaching effects.” Individual action matters, especially if you talk about it. Your example, your words are rippling out and inspiring others to act for creation justice.
Compost food waste and more (leaves, paper, pet fur, coffee filters). Twenty to 45% of landfill is organic and creates methane gas, which contributes to global warming. Instead, you can compost, which is nature’s way to nourish the soil. Browse for easy and effective options: backyard bin, indoor machine, commercial pick up, sharing a service with a neighbor.
Go after those sneaky leaky windows and doors. Rather than add a space heater or crank up the whole HVAC system, get a caulking gun and hunt for gaps to fill. A little effort will keep you warmer in winter and cooler in summer and save emissions and dollars.
When you shop for clothes online, shop for companies that are kind to Mother Earth. Check their website for the “About Us” story of their commitment to sustainability, to fair practices for their workers, and to giving back (planting trees, for example). If the cost is higher than you would pay for “fast fashion,” recognize that your purchase is supporting a sea change in an industry that has been abusive to earth. Check out Arrayed, TenTree United by Blue, Pact.
As election season heats up, remember that the planet is also heating up! Scrutinize candidates for their stand on dealing with climate change and the injustices done to so many people. Do your homework at all levels of government—federal, state, and local. Vote your values.
Does that sweet potato really need a plastic wrap? When you only want 1 squash, are you stuck with 3 because they are packaged that way (using plastic and Styrofoam, of course)? Go for loose produce or browse “mesh bags for produce.” With a one-time purchase of the bags, you’ll keep lots of plastic out of landfills.
Jesus has told us that we are to care for the “least of these who are members of [Christ’s] family” (Matthew 25:40). Working to ameliorate climate change recognizes that people like Jesus described, those with few resources or connections, will suffer the most from the ravages that are more and more evident. Jesus calls us to care for humanity and to work for climate justice.
Hillcrest UMC (Nashville, TN) fired up 75 volunteers from the church and community and planted 400 trees along the banks of the stream that runs through the church property. In short order, the church saw improved water clarity, healthier vegetation, more fish, less flooding downstream, and continued flow during the driest summer. Look at your church property for planting potential.
October, before the first frost, is good for planting perennials. Perennials are good for pollinators, for withstanding drought, and for saving money. Plant some power flowers for the environment.
Manufacturing just 1 Styrofoam cup demands 10 times the amount of water used to wash just 1 reusable cup. Switch to washable cups at home, at work, and at church. Use your own cup if you regularly purchase coffee. Tell the barista no thanks to single-use foam.