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The International Day of Climate Action, celebrated on October 24th each year, serves as a global call to action to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time: climate change. As our planet faces unprecedented environmental crises, this day reminds us of the urgency of our collective responsibility to protect the Earth for future generations. Today we’re exploring the significance of International Day of Climate Action and highlighting some inspiring individuals and organizations leading the charge in the fight against climate change.

Why is it important?

Climate change is a complex issue that impacts every facet of our lives, from the air we breathe to the food we eat and the homes we live in. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, melting ice caps, and sea-level rise are just a few of the consequences we face due to the rapid increase in greenhouse gas emissions. On average, over 20 million people are displaced due to extreme weather events every year, and there could be 1.2 billion total climate refugees by 2050 if this rate of displacement continues.

Climate change threatens the livelihood of everyone from increased intensity and frequency of weather events to collapsed food systems. International Day of Climate Action is a time for us to recognize the urgency of the climate crisis and come together as a global community to raise awareness, take action, and push for transformative change.

Inspiring Individuals

There are a number of individuals and organizations who have been instrumental in the fight against climate change. From global figureheads to local heroes, many have been involved in these efforts at every level.

• Greta Thunberg: Greta Thunberg, a Swedish environmental activist, has become a symbol of youth-led climate action. Her "Fridays for Future" movement, which began as a school strike, has inspired millions of young people worldwide to demand climate action from their governments. Greta's passionate advocacy and fearless determination have earned her recognition as one of the most influential climate activists of our time.
• Sir David Attenborough: As a renowned natural historian and broadcaster, Sir David Attenborough has dedicated his life to educating the world about the wonders of the natural world. In recent years, he has used his platform to sound the alarm on climate change through documentaries like "Our Planet" and "A Life on Our Planet." His powerful storytelling has awakened global audiences to the urgent need for conservation and sustainable living.
• Rikki Held: Rikki Held is the lead plaintiff in the lawsuit from Our Children’s Trust. The Held V Montana lawsuit was recently won in which Held (and 15 other youth plaintiffs in the lawsuit through Our Children’s Trust) sued the state of Montana for denying the state constitutional right to “a clean and healthful environment.” Judge Seeley ruled in favor of the youth plaintiffs which sets the precedent for other opportunities like this.

Getting Involved

On International Day of Climate Action, you can make a difference by:

• Educating Yourself: Stay informed about the latest developments in climate science and policy. Climate Central is a non-profit organization that reports on climate change science and related news. 
• Reducing Your Carbon Footprint: Make sustainable choices in your daily life, such as reducing energy consumption, using public transportation, and adopting a plant-based diet. 
• Supporting Climate Initiatives: Contribute to or volunteer with local and international organizations working to combat climate change. There are a number of local, national, and global organizations in Central Oregon that work in conservation, electrification, and other related avenues. 
• Deschutes Land Trust
• The Environmental Center
• The Nature Conservancy
• Greenpeace
• United Nations
• National Resources Defense Council 
• There are many other organizations at every level working to create a healthier and safer environment. Check out these organizations and others to stay involved.
• Advocating for Change: Contact your elected officials and urge them to prioritize climate action through policies and legislation.
• Participating in Climate Activism: Attend climate rallies, join climate-focused organizations, and raise awareness in your community.

International Day of Climate Action serves as a stark reminder that the climate crisis is real and requires immediate action. By following the lead of inspiring individuals and organizations, and by taking steps in our own lives, we can collectively address this global challenge and work towards a greener, more sustainable future for all. Remember, the time for action is now.