How to Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Your Community
Photo by citta-vita
In addition to lowering your own greenhouse gas emissions, it can be a rewarding and beneficial thing to get your community involved. In fact, it is a key component to enacting real change. But how can you achieve this? Here are some ideas for getting the people in your community on board with you in reducing emissions.
1. Inform
First, make sure you are informed. As the one heading up community involvement, people will come to you with questions and maybe challenges. Thus, it’s important that you have a clear, feasible goal and clear steps to achieve it. It’s also important that you know why you are active for the cause of emission reduction.
Using paperless communication or informative bulletins/flyers made from recycled paper, circulate your message. People may not be aware of the problem or may not understand its importance. Creative signs and unusual flyers can get the attention of individuals who might otherwise not pay attention to the issue.
2. Circulate a Petition
To enact reform, you will need the help of local authorities. Presenting such authorities with a collection of signatures can be a very effective means by which to show that you have support in your efforts.
3. Keep People Updated
Make sure you keep your supporters informed. Set up a website and send electronic newsletters. Let people know when events are occurring, how projects are coming on, where people can volunteer, etc. Publish links to pertinent articles about legislation, current events, rallies, environmental news, and so forth to keep your readership up to date and provide them with opportunities to get involved.
4. Write to Your Local Newspaper
Getting involved in your community yourself is an important step toward getting others involved. Write letters to the editor to call readers to action. If your newspaper has an online presence, make sure your writings appear there as well.
5. Set Up Recycling Program
Once you have generated interest and concern, see about getting a recycling program set up in your community. Many people would recycle if they knew how and where. Organize trips to the recycling center, carpooling to save gas and reduce emissions. Work with local authorities to establish drop-off recycling bins on curbs and pick-up. This is where your petition can come in handy!
6. Work in Schools
Most schools are very receptive to environmental education for their students. Prepare a presentation for students to raise awareness and encourage them to get active. Have hands-on, concrete ways that children can be involved, such as participating in a neighborhood clean-up day (which you have already organized, of course!). You may be able to participate in an environmental education program that already exists in the schools near you.
Above all, be an example. Others will be inspired when they see you working toward something in which you believe.
