ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE TO COMBAT THE SIXTH MASS EXTINCTION
Consider this a starting point for inspiration: thoughtful steps you can take to protect our friends on earth. When possible, I have linked to other resources with more extensive details about these actions and how they create impact. In general, personal, everyday actions like these can reduce waste and production, in turn protecting habitats, mitigating climate change, and changing the path that led us to the sixth extinction.
Be a conscientious consumer.
There are many opportunities every day to buy better, buy less, or buy nothing. Avoid fast fashion. Go to the thrift store and use resale sites. Buy natural fibers instead of synthetic (which are forms of plastic). Rent clothes. Use the library. Look for sustainability certifications on products. And always ask yourself: Do I really need to buy this?
“EAT FOOD. MOSTLY PLANTS.”
This phrase is courtesy of writer Michael Pollan and his book Food Rules. While the original meaning was more focused on healthy eating than environmentally-friendly eating, it still holds true. Generally, moving toward healthy foods is also better for the environment, and there is a lot of evidence that a plant-based diet (even if not 100% of the time!) can help conserve land and habitats, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and limit water consumption and pollution.
SUPPORT ECOTOURISM, ESPECIALLY INDIGENOUS-OWNED BUSINESSES.
In 2021, I traveled to Ecuador with my husband and stayed in Sani Lodge, the country’s only 100% indigenous-owned and -run ecolodge. In the jungles along the Napo River, a tributary of the Amazon, I heard firsthand how important this enterprise is to the Kichwa people, creating a sustainable source of income in an area with limited options. Nearby, oil drilling pulled in other workers, who would find themselves without a paycheck, and in a degraded environment, once the drilling stopped. This drilling creates many dangers to the people and their lands, and in places like Ecuador, ecotourism can be a valuable alternative that brings in money while preserving nature. Wherever you’re adventuring, near or fear, double-check who you’re giving money to and if there are more sustainable options.
DONATE WHAT YOU CAN.
It might be time, money, skills, or knowledge. When you can, give something to conservation organizations, campaigns, or politicians working for change in your community. You may want to join a clean-up or set-up a recurring $10 monthly donation. If you’re interested in direct action, I recommend looking into Extinction Rebellion and joining a local chapter.
BE A LOCALIST.
Even in the most urban environments, we find nature. When the extinction crisis seems overwhelming and far away, our backyards and public parks can be reminders of what we have to lose. Vacation locally and take a look. Meet the farmers and rooftop beekeepers and artisans and activists. Real action starts at home.
SPREAD THE WORD.
Whether this means joining a protest, getting vocal on Twitter, or having a chat with your family, there is power in sharing what you know and building support. I’m living this action right here, with the Face of Extinctions Project. If I get one person engaged in the fight against extinction, I will count it a success.
LEARN MORE.
The extinction crisis is vast and connected to many related issues, as these actions emphasize. As we fight to change this story, we must continue to read, learn from experts, get creative, build solutions that didn’t exist before.