As election time approaches we often only focus on the biggest offices up for election - like the Presidential ticket, Congressional offices, or the Governor.
However, there are many other offices up for reelection during the general election on the State and Local levels that are equally important and arguably have a more direct impact on our communities.
Additionally, the main voter motivation tends to be economic issues, international relations, and various human rights issues. While all these are extremely important issues to educate ourselves on and hold informed opinions about, environmental policy tends to fall on the back burner all too often.
Environmental health is interconnected with many other issues that we face, including but not limited to public health, community development, economic opportunity, quality housing, energy, education, access to public land, and climate refugees. For those concerned with the climate crisis, it is no surprise that the effects have rapidly escalated over the past decade.
While we can help on the corporate and individual levels, our elected officials maintain the ability to set forth impactful climate legislation and regulate many aspects of environmental pollution, protection, and preservation.
With this, here are a few things to keep in mind as the election season approaches:
Vote National, Statewide, and Local!
Offices in all branches and levels of government deserve our attention. The right to vote is cherished and vital - and it would be anything but smart not to exercise it to its fullest and most informed capacity.
You can check out various offices up for election in your state HERE.
Be Aware of the Environmental Issues Affecting Us
Land conservation and preservation, sustainable city development, reliable public transportation, air pollution, access to water, water pollution, climate-exacerbated natural disasters (wildfires, hurricanes, flooding), endangered species protection, renewable energy, waste management, etc. are just a few important environmental concerns!
Read Up on Candidates’ Environmental Policy Platforms
As you're doing your research, make sure to also look at how candidates acknowledge and plan to address our modern environmental problems at both small and large scales. Reaching out to candidates or going to local events can be a great opportunity to ask them in person!
Spread the Word
By spreading the environmental justice message with kindness and compassion, we can help to raise awareness of these issues in an impactful way – and hopefully inspire others to want to protect our planet for future generations and assist those facing environmental injustice!
Donate To Organizations Helping To Defend The Environment!
Any other local environmental defense organization that is protecting your backyard!
Remaining informed and politically engaged is one of the best ways to drive larger environmental change beyond the individual level. So this November, don’t forget to Vote for Mother Earth 2024!
