I just watched a moderated discussion between Noam Chomsky and Robert Pollin on Climate Crisis and the Global Green New Deal, this quote from Noam Chomsky: “We all know what needs to be done to save us from our own folie” struck me. We - individuals, politicians, businesses, scientists, community advocates - are well aware of the steps that could be done to reduce the effects of global warming, however little has been done to address the progressive and growing destruction of our eco-systems. Mother nature is suffering, sending us warning signals such as a growing number of massive wildfires worldwide, the spread of a global pandemic, the growth of climate migration etc. Why shall we try? Why shall we keep having hope that our humanity will save itself from its self-destructive behaviour? During this conversation Professor Chomsky challenged us by suggesting that it is a shame to see the young generation at the forefront of this fight. Indeed, all over the world, young protestors and organized movements are blaming exploitative forces that embed capitalistic practices. Over-consumption, production of polluting energies through the extraction of fossil fuels, deforestation and labor exploitation are responsible for global warming. These movements, mostly led by our youth, are shaming us for our carefree/careless attitude and irresponsibility. How dare we? they ask. How dare we stand by and watch them carry the burden of this fight that will help us move forward. They are right, why should we continue to betray them and our children by our complicit actions and disengagement?

“I own, and possess and consume so I am..” Is it worth a mantra living for? If we tell ourselves and our friends that global warming is a lost cause, then this will undoubtedly lead toward a self-fulfilling prophecy. I live in Vancouver BC, and while walking by the ocean (rain or shine) I so often feel moved by the natural beauty that surrounds me. I want my 2 years old daughter and my 7 year sold son to feel the same nourishment that I do now, 30 or 50 years from now. I don’t want to see any of this natural beauty vanish because of our collective lack of care. Looking at the slow degradation of our land feels like watching someone we love collapsing under our own strikes. How can we allow ourself to do that?

I’ve been watching a lot of documentaries exploring the journeys of environmentalist activists. As I watched their courageous paths, I realized that their fight is also to the reflection of my own cowardice. What do they have that I don’t? financial means, expertise, power? None of this seems to determine the reason why these activists succeeded in fulfilling their mission. Our individualist and comfortable lives prevent us from feeling the pressing need to survive and act for the greater good.

Both Professor Chomsky and Pollin believe that there is still hope and opportunity for change. We don’t need to wait for the next president or prime minister to act. We don’t need to expect the next young inspiring leader to do the job for us. We can all, even on a small scale, make a difference. These little changes in our lifestyle: buying less or buying local, biking if our heath allows it, eating less meat, taking the time be grateful for a clear sky or air, letting ourselves feel amazed by all the joys that nature has to offer, could help us be more environmentally conscious. It is time for us to wake up, to take the lead alongside the young generation. One responsible and caring action a time, little by little, will lead to great collective change, for us and the generations to come.