How you can get involved in climate advocacy today

2024 will be the hottest year on record — and the resulting signs of climate breakdown are emerging worldwide. As global warming accelerates at a frightening pace, taking action on climate change must become a national priority.

To make that happen, we need climate advocates now more than ever. From local grassroots efforts to national political climate lobbying efforts, engaging with your community to take action on climate change is the first step. 

Use this guide as a starting point for climate advocacy — a resource for anyone looking to make a difference in the fight against climate change

Why climate advocacy is important

Climate change is a global problem that touches every corner of our world. Even a half-degree increase in our climate’s average temperature can dramatically alter the entire planet, impacting everything from animal habitat to food production. We’re currently on track to exceed the warming threshold that will trigger ever-greater climate disruptions like polar ice melting, out-of-control wildfires and megadroughts.

To ensure a livable planet for us and future generations, we must take action now. The climate emergency is not a distant threat — it’s here today and demands an urgent response.

How to get involved in climate action

Becoming a climate advocate can take many forms — from political activism for better climate policy to spreading the word about clean energy, and becoming a global warming educator. Taking action for climate justice can drive systemic change, and inspire others to do the same.

Here are some ideas to help you embark on your climate justice journey and help build the collective movement for change.

Join a grassroots organization focused on climate change

Organizations focused on climate advocacy have proliferated in recent years as the climate crisis unfolds. Whether your passion is climate justice in underserved communities or campaigning for political action against fossil fuels, there are numerous options to join.

Becoming active in climate action organizations can have a deep impact and achieve major results. Joining local grassroots climate organizations also creates opportunities to connect with other climate advocates and build your climate action community.

Contact political representatives about the climate crisis

One of the most critical tools in the climate action toolbox is government policy at the national, state, and local levels. Your voice can help motivate elected officials and spark the political will we need to create lasting change. 

Find your federal, state and local representatives, and then call, email or write to them. Or, join a demonstration about the climate emergency at a government hub near you. There are many paths to political action for better climate policy and government action on climate change, so make your voice heard.

Facilitate community engagement

Connecting with others who want to take action on climate change is powerful. Become a convener and bring your local community together to discuss climate solutions. By bringing together diverse stakeholders to start a climate change conversation, you’re both helping in the fight against global warming and creating community. Whether you’re working to motivate national political action or local clean energy implementation, the community is a potent force in the climate movement.

Become a climate action educator

You don’t need a teaching degree to become a climate change educator. Thanks to technology and the Internet, there have never been more channels available to educate others about the climate emergency.  

Try your hand at writing op-eds, volunteering in a classroom, starting a climate advocacy blog or podcast, engaging with local political officials, or leveraging social media to drive climate change awareness.

Promote environmental stewardship

Becoming a citizen scientist, educating others about the impact of the climate crisis, and encouraging stewardship of our planet are all ways you can become a climate advocate. 

There are many ways to become an environmental steward. Some include joining a participatory science project focused on climate change, volunteering with students to teach them about climate advocacy, or educating others about how to cut down energy use and reduce waste.

Participate in protests — or organize one of your own

Get out and make your voice heard. While some people may feel that protests don’t make a difference, data shows that protests have an impact in many ways. According to the Carnegie Climate Protest tracker, 30 climate change protests have generated significant climate action since the organization first began tracking in 2022. 

Learn about effective climate advocacy tactics and how to safely protest and then get out on the street. If you want to organize a protest of your own, grab some friends and get started.

Start a climate advocacy petition

A petition is one of the best ways to raise national awareness and engage key political decision-makers in the climate emergency. Here are some inspiring examples of petitions focused on climate change that are making a difference.

Deforestation and climate justice

This global petition focuses on both the impact of deforestation on climate change and the social justice ramifications for local communities. Currently just shy of 7,000 signatures, it’s rapidly approaching its 7,500 signature goal.

Support sustainable landscaping

This Saint Marys, Pennsylvania petition is a great example of thinking globally and acting locally. The current city code prohibits grasses over 10 inches in height, which rules out pollinator gardens and many native plantings. This petition seeks the implementation of climate-friendly landscaping guidelines. With over 1,000 local signatures, it’s gaining significant traction.

Put an end to fossil fuels

This petition focuses on halting fossil fuel subsidies in the European Union. The EU is currently subsidizing fossil fuel producers to the tune of almost 400 billion euros per year, contributing to the climate crisis. With almost 2,000 signatures from around the world, the petition is well on its way to success, demonstrating that political advocacy knows no borders.

Increase public transit in Colorado

Increasing local investment in public transport helps to lower use of fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gases. This local petition to add more public transport options in the Denver, Colorado area is already close to its goal of 500 signatures.

Your voice matters

Whether you’re passionate about social justice, clean energy, or any other aspect of the climate crisis, there are many pathways to engage and help motivate action around climate change.

Start your climate advocacy journey by starting a Change.org petition or learning more about petitions in these guides. The time for climate solutions is now, and you can become part of the change.