For Our Children's Future

Today the US President made a pathetic executive decision, against the majority of Americans' wishes, to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. Completely sickened by this action, I began thinking, "how can we, as citizens, combat and fix this?"After all when every person joins together for a cause, the power shifts to the hands of the people. And preserving the Earth for our children is a good cause!

First we need to stand up to this RIGHT NOW! The proceedings are not final, it will take months to actually set this in motion. Therefore we need to rise up NOW. This Monday is World Environment Day, we need to peacefully hit the streets and march. Not just for oceans and tigers and polar bears, but for clean food, healthy air, and a safe future for everyone!! March!! And contact your state representatives, they want our input! Calling them is the most effective (call 1-202-730-9008 to be directed to your Senator's office), but we can email them, write them letters, and message them on social media! I urge you all to do so right now!

But when the protesting has left the media, what can we do in the long run?

*ONLY supporting business that strive to be greener, whether that be greener production, manufacturing, products, or all of the above. is key! By only buying products which have government approved seals of environmental regulation sends a clear message to those watching the numbers. And it's not just things you buy at the grocery store. Supporting sustainable companies like IKEA or H&M make just as much of a difference.

*Changing our energy practices can also make a big dent! Take public transit, or ride a bike. If you drive, drive a car with 0 emissions. Support gas alternatives, and switch to an electric car if you can. Ask every utility company you pay bills to about a green energy plan. In Oregon, you can get all your electricity from solar, wind, and geothermal through Portland General Electric. NW Natural has a cow pie program where methane is captured and recycled. And the costs are the same, if not cheaper as green energy has now surpassed fossil fuels in many places.

*Support those who for whatever reason cannot partake in the above practices due to lack of job skills or finances. Provide financial aid, pay for training, take it upon yourself to empower and educate! We cannot stand up as a community if we don't assist in our neighbor's obstacles.

And finally we simply cannot let our current motivations & passions die out. We cannot be silent in a month or two. The longer we press, the longer our so called leader will need to pay attention, and act.