Climate change does exist and is capable of affecting the quality of life of everyone on the planet unless we unite to prevent it. Governments can and should be the focus of the fight against climate change by issuing regulations that support it. If your heart is determined to save the earth for future generations, we have some ideas that can be used to fight climate change at the village, provincial, and even national levels. As Greta Thunberg put it, “I learned that you shouldn't feel 'too small' to make a change”.
Step
Method 1 of 10: Work with local government
Step 1. Urge your local government to issue strong environmental regulations
Local governments have the authority to set environmental standards that can be imitated by the provincial government or even the central government. At the local level, you also have a greater opportunity to voice your opinion, especially if you live in a relatively small city.
Get to know board members in your area. Even in big cities, councilors usually consist of only a few people so you can try to work with them on a more personal level
Method 2 of 10: Support teaching materials about climate change in schools
Step 1. Ask schools in your area to include climate change issues in their curriculum
Enforcement of the rules to fight climate change will be easier when people understand the problem scientifically. This can only be taught in schools. Start encouraging schools in your area to include materials about climate change in their learning activities.
- Most schools often hold open meetings with parents. You can use this event as an opportunity to advocate for the importance of education around climate change.
- Talk to students and parents to engage them directly. The school will be more motivated to make changes if it gets support from all parties.
Method 3 of 10: Talk to business people in your area
Step 1. Support from business people will make your movement stronger
Most regulations to fight climate change have more influence on business people than individual ordinary people. The government will be more motivated to issue regulations to prevent climate change if it gets support from business people.
- Focus on making sure that “going green” is far more profitable than relying on other means. Convince business people that the changes they want to make are much better for future investments, and can provide business growth and greater profits.
- Don't be afraid to use business jargon to convey your ideas. Convey that the fight against climate change will minimize the risks that can harm businesses. This is similar to insurance which is useful for protecting their assets from unwanted risks.
- Emphasize that the issue of climate change presents an opportunity for smart entrepreneurs to innovate and stand out from their competitors.
Method 4 of 10: Write a letter to your local representative in parliament
Step 1. Urge your local representative in parliament to issue rules to fight climate change
If your local government is trying to issue regulations related to climate change issues, send a letter of support to your local representative. Convey the urgency to fight climate change and say you believe they can make a difference.
- There are many nonprofit green organizations that provide free scripts that you can use or modify as needed.
- Even if none of your local representatives is currently discussing the issue, you can still send them a letter letting them know that you support any movement the government is taking to fight climate change.
Method 5 of 10: Support the campaign of a candidate who cares about the environment
Step 1. Support candidates for office who prioritize climate change issues
Whenever there's an election, find out what environmental policies each candidate has so you know which ones are worth supporting. After that, contact their winning team and offer to help.
The campaign process requires the help of volunteers, even if it's just to put up posters or share posts on social media
Method 6 of 10: Join a nonprofit green organization
Step 1. Nonprofits can provide resources while amplifying your voice
National and international non-profit organizations usually lead the movement to fight climate change. By joining forces with them, you'll gain the information and resources you need to take the fight.
- Usually, joining the organization costs around IDR 500,000 a year membership fee. If you choose to join an organization engaged in politics and legal action, membership fees may not be tax deductible, but you can encourage the issuance of regulations that are more permanent and enforceable.
- Look for a reputable organization before joining as a member. Join an organization with a mission that truly aligns with yours.
Method 7 of 10: Make a donation to support the green movement
Step 1. Give money to groups leading the movement against climate change
Make a donation to your heart's content to a movement that supports regulatory change to fight climate change. Because these groups are well established and have the ability to lobby for law, they can make a bigger difference than your own movement.
Reputable organizations will report where your donation money goes. Look for organizations that match your mission through dedicated charity locator apps like Charity Navigator (https://www.charitynavigator.org/) so you know where your money is going
Method 8 out of 10: Volunteer to help the green movement
Step 1. Work with nonprofits to push for government action
Small groups, national organizations, and global organizations rely on volunteers to get their message across. Donating time is as valuable as donating money to fight climate change.
For example, if you are a student aspiring to be a writer, lawyer, or politician, you can volunteer for the Citizen Climate Lobby program. As a volunteer for this organization, you can help draft legislation and publication articles
Method 9 of 10: Participate in rallies and demonstrations
Step 1. Protest in the streets with other activities so that your voice is heard
The activists' demonstration is a message for the government to support their actions against climate change. By actively protesting, you can let the government and the rest of the world know how you feel and the urgency of the issue to you.
If you don't want to huddle in large numbers, there are still many ways to support people at rallies or demonstrations. For example, if you are good at drawing, you can volunteer to make posters. You can also build a special tent that provides water and snacks to the protesters
Method 10 of 10: Submit a petition to your local representative in parliament
Step 1. Ask your local representative in parliament to support legislation around climate change
If there is a discussion about regulations related to climate change issues in parliament, please contact your regional representative and convey your support. Even if the issue is not being discussed, you can still contact or send a letter to regional representatives in parliament to express your support for the movement against climate change.
