Where Do We Grow From Here to Protect the Planet We Love?

In 2020, the carbon dioxide emissions recorded were 50% less than the Energy Information Administration's projections in part due to the replacement of coal with natural gas, the affordability of wind and solar energy and the public taking advantage of energy-efficient appliances and technology.

It's possible to decrease our carbon footprint by another 50%, but there are still steps that we must take. Though it's the national and local governments that have the largest responsibility in making progress on this front, it all starts with the public—and here are a few ways you can stand up to global warming and help protect the planet we call home.

1. Vote for the Right Policies
The first step to making a change in the fight against global warming, is supporting policies that stop financing products that contribute to pollution and working to replace the board members who encourage these types of investments. For example, banks have been investing in clean energy, but they are still financing fossil fuel production at a high rate. By voting for policies that regulate climate risk, you can help give the people more say in who runs banks and investment agencies and standardize financial accountability, which is currently a voluntary ramification.

By regulating climate risk, we can start seeing transparency in bank investments when it concerns energy production and pave the way for reconstructing other markets, like homeowner and business insurance, that are heavily impacted by climate change-related events, such as severe weather, floods, fires and other natural disasters.

2. Support Climate Initiatives
With a goal to achieve a 50% to 52% reduction in emissions by 2030, AMERICA IS ALL IN is the most expansive coalition of leaders in support of climate action in the United States, championing a whole-of-society approach as a national climate strategy to help the United States deliver on its climate ambitions and create a healthier, more prosperous and sustainable future.

But supporting climate initiatives could start right in your backyard with local legislation, like the Public School Green Rooftop Program Bill (H.R. 1863) by Nydia Velázquez of New York. This program would be funded by the Department of Energy to implement green roofs at public elementary and secondary schools. These roofs offer a sustainable and energy-efficient way of bringing green space to urban areas while also benefiting students and the community at large.

3. Endorse Local Programs
It's no secret that exposure to fossil fuel emissions is unhealthy, yet it has become prevalent in dense communities that bear the brunt of air pollution from highways and other concentrated pollution sources.

Supporting clean energy infrastructure in these historically disadvantaged communities and equitable planning reform to remedy housing shortages and developments segregated by freeways is just the beginning of the solution. For example, at the direction of the city council, Los Angeles has embarked on a plan to modernize its electricity system infrastructure—aiming for a 100% renewable energy supply by 2045.

4. Make Sustainability Goals
Create transparency for your business, including developing a Health Product Declaration (HPD) for your products and seeking LEED® or other sustainability certifications, such as Certified B Corporation, Cradle to Cradle Certified, Green America Certification, WELL Certification, etc.

Greenscreen^® is the first green wall manufacturer to complete an HPD and Life Cycle Assessment model and report that is ISO 14040/14044 compliant. Our products are designed to help you meet your sustainability goals. A full list of potential credit contributions is available here.

Whether your climate change efforts are local, global or right in your backyard—everything helps when it comes to creating a society-wide movement for the fight against global warming. Contact an Advisor to find out how we can help you reach your sustainability goals.