It's a fact, the climate crisis is here. Global scientists, leaders, and activists across our planet have made it clear that in order to combat that worst impacts of climate change we must reduce our dependence on fossil fuels — a 45% decrease in emissions by 2030, to be exact. With the timeline shortening, and impacts worsening, every fraction of a degree of global temperature rise has a huge impact.
But pessimism and climate doom won't help heal our planet or uplift our communities — that's where coming together and celebrating climate wins comes in.
Here are 5 recent climate wins you should know about to help inspire a future of environmental change in your own community.
1. Global Coal Projects On A Decline
2. LA County Bans Oil And Gas Drilling
Los Angeles County (where Wolven is based) unanimously voted to phase out oil and gas drilling on unincorporated land in LA county, making huge progress for environmental justice communities. This vote could have implications for phasing out oil and gas drilling all across California.
3. Clean Energy On The Rise In The U.S
The American Clean Power Association released a report stating that wind and solar projects reached an all-time high in 2021, with a 17% increase from last year.
4. New York To Phase Out New Gas Vehicles
New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation to phase out the sale of new fossil fuel burning cars and other vehicles by 2035. This new law helps support New York's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 85% by 2050.
5. Illinois Passes Massive Clean Energy Bill
Illinois, one of the country's largest coal states, passed landmark legislation to transition to 100% clean energy by 2050, and phase out fossil fuel plants by 2045. This legislation serves as an important example for other fossil-fuel states to make the shift toward renewable energy.
Knowing that we have the technology and capability to pass policies to avoid worsening the impacts of climate change can be incredibly powerful in relieving climate anxiety. It can also help motivate yourself and others to get involved in doing something about the climate crisis. But it doesn't stop there.
As a Climate Neutral Certified brand rooted in our love for the planet and building community, we are always working to learn more, engage our Wolfpack, and reduce our own impact on the Earth.
But the way we move forward must be together and with action. So, let's keep the climate wins coming with 3 actions you can take today.
1. Support The Build Back Better Act
Support the Build Back Better Act by visiting CodeRedCongress.com. This important piece of legislation will help put us on a path toward 100% clean energy, create important infrastructure and climate jobs, transform our transportation system and invest in electrification, help protect the Arctic Wildlife Refuge from oil drilling, and overall invest in important programs to build resilient communities.
2. Participate in The 2021 Global Climate Strike
Look up a local Fridays For Future Climate Strike happening near you, on September 24th, 2021. Take action to demand global action on climate change by visiting fridaysforfuture.org/september24 to learn more.
3. Support Climate Leaders In Upcoming Elections
Many local elections across the country are taking place, make sure to look up local elections in your area so you can support candidates who prioritize climate action and clean energy.
Now, share these climate wins and actions with your own Wolfpack.
The Wolfpack IRL
About the Author
Amanda, Graphic Designer + Sustainability Specialist
Amanda loves to blend her passion for art and activism, and with a background in environmental advocacy she enjoys communicating Wolven's environmental values and engaging the Wolfpack community through design. Using creativity to inspire change is what she is all about!
