How to Get Rid of Apathy Towards the Environment

A March 2010 Gallup poll found that, among the Americans surveyed, there was a 10-point drop from a 2000 poll in those expressing interest or participation in the environmental movement. This is particularly concerning considering some of the worst environmental disasters in human history are presently unfolding. One would hope that, following the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, the Gulf oil spill, and the record numbers of droughts, flooding and tornadoes occurring worldwide, the results of that poll would be different if taken today. Protecting our environment requires the concern and involvement of far more citizens. Getting people to realize the important role each of our contributions can make is key to reversing much of the apathy.

Things You'll Need

• Reading materials about the environment
• Internet access for online research and networking

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Learn about some of the many simple changes each of us can make in our daily lives that can make a positive difference. Listings of these can be found in many sources. The current prevalence of recycling and switching to compact fluorescent lighting is a prime example of how such changes can take hold. Gradually incorporate many of these changes into your lifestyle and be an example to others.

• 2

  Share these ideas with those around you. Too often people feel powerless to make a meaningful contribution to protecting the environment, but we all need to remember the cumulative effect of many people together making changes. What if each of us planted a new tree or allowed part of our lawn to return to natural growth?

• 3

  Find ways to be inspired by nature and share that inspiration with others, especially children. A deep appreciation of the environment is a huge motivator to become a concerned citizen. Hike in your local parks, visit your local observatory, volunteer at a nature preserve or bird sanctuary, bike or drive to scenic areas or view nature documentaries, etc. Encourage others to do the same.

• 4

  Educate yourself about important environmental issues. Perhaps there is an issue that is of particular interest to you. Become familiar with the reasoning of those who reject the idea global warming or existing levels of pollution are a threat. Share your knowledge with others by initiating discussions, organizing presentations, or speaking up in different settings. Maybe you could start an environmental study group.

• 5

  Seek out and support environmental groups of your liking. Volunteers are always needed. This is a great way to further your knowledge and make a difference. Many environmental groups offer opportunities to voice your opinion to appropriate decision makers through lobbying and circulating petitions. They also serve to keep you and others informed of the latest environmental issues. Financially supporting these organizations is invaluable to their public outreach efforts.

• 6

  Find ways to speak out and have your voice heard. Invite others to do likewise. Utilize traditional media by writing an editorial, arrange a television or radio interview or write a magazine article. Social media also provides wonderful opportunities to share your concerns. Provide links to some of your favorite organizations or online news sources. Let your legislators, local and national, know how you feel about particular environmental issues. Call, write and attend rallies. Encourage others to see the urgency for change, given the threats to our environment.