Identify local advocacy groups

You’re not alone: numerous environmental advocacy groups are already out there where like-minded citizens gather to work in collaboration. Time-tested “big green” groups like the Sierra Club and League of Conservation Voters have led successful campaigns over many decades, while other newer groups like 350.org and Citizens’ Climate Lobby have formed in recent years and moved the needle on some of the biggest environmental fights of our time. Local coalitions focused on specific issues, be it environmental justice, air quality, wildlife, or clean water, are found in nearly every town, county, and region. Most are always on the lookout for new volunteers. Do your research and find a group that works for you.

Learn about Letter to the Editor and Op-Ed writing

Bringing environmental issues to the public eye through letters to the editor and Op-Eds can have a significant impact, particularly when tied to specific legislation or campaigns. One of the most important things you can do when writing a piece of earned media is call attention to the decision-makers involved in the issue at hand. Is your city council set to debate a new ordinance or rule impacting the local environment? Is your state legislature voting on a key environmental bill? Mention those elected officials, particularly those on the fence, in your letter to the editor or Op-Ed. Typically, they themselves or their staff will monitor prominent local publications for mentions, especially if the article is published online and their name is mentioned.

Research your state and local elected officials

State and local officials respond most to the people who elect them. If you have an environmental issue you are particularly concerned about, reach out to your officials about it and see if they or their staff would be willing to meet. Many free resources exist with best practices for how to speak to legislators, but the most important thing will be to be genuine and explain clearly why this issue impacts you and others in the district they represent. If you don’t wish to go it alone, get plugged in with a local chapter of an organization that does coordinated citizen lobbying like Sierra Club or Citizens Climate Lobby.

Organize a letter writing party

Hand-written letters to decision-makers around environmental issues are some of the most impactful tools available to you to move the needle on issues of importance. The hand-written letter shows that the issue matters enough to you that you took the time to sit down and write about it. It conveys a sense of authenticity that digital communications lack. For best practices, check out Union of Concerned Scientist’s guide to hosting a letter writing party.

Speak with friends, family, and neighbors

While interacting with lawmakers and other decision-makers is one way to advocate for change at a high level, talking with those closest to you is a way to make change happen locally. Have you taken environmental actions that have had a positive impact on your life? Let your friends, family, and neighbor know about it! Before you know it, they’ll be taking the same actions if you present them in a positive light.