We can't claim to be experts on climate change and environmental sustainability—though we have chatted with a few renown women in these fields—but what we do know is that the rapid decline of our world will affect us all. Led by the generation who will inherit a hotter and less stable planet, millions of people around the world are marching in a Global Climate Strike to demand action. Today marks three days before the United Nations Climate Summit where world leaders will demonstrate if they've heard this collective voice of urgency. 

So, what can we—the average person—do to make a difference? To start, read about the state of our environment and how the human footprint is drastically changing her landscape. Consider and focus on what you can do—small intentional shifts can and will make a difference. It's been the refrain forever but now with much urgency: reduce, re-use, recycle. Walk more. Be intentional about consumption. Have conversations about conservatism and the environment. Support companies and brands that are actively working to use sustainable practices. Be aware that what you do in regards to the planet every day matters. 

A few resources to broaden your awareness:

Follow #globalclimatestrike and #climatestrike

Over 2000 scientists urge their colleagues to join the Global Climate Strike

Following investigative reporting via The Times on climate and the environment

“Adults keep saying we owe it to the young people to give them hope. But I don't want your hope, I don't want you to be hopeful. I want you to panic, I want you to feel the fear I feel every day.” The extraordinary rise of Greta Thunberg, the 16-year-old leading the climate change charge

Visual protests from around the world

The Sunrise Movement: "The new face of climate activism is young, angry—and effective"

CNN hosted a Democratic presidential town hall focused on the climate crisis where the candidates explained their climate proposals

"How do you fix...all of it?" Experts weigh in

Extreme weather displaced 7 million people in the first half of 2019

"We're young but we're not dumb"

Pressure on companies to change their practices matter

"This is not an argument of politics, it’s an argument with science, and you can’t argue with the data. So basically, everything needs to move faster and deeper, and all of us are going to have to be more committed as nations to this."