Biodiversity loss is a key outcome of the climate crisis. Take action in 3 joyful ways.
Yeeee it's time to talk about the global extinction crisis. This month, for our Biodiversity topic, we'll explore some sadboi facts but as always, we'll talk solutions soon.
Bonus: If you live in a house with kids or pets (same thing amirite), biodiversity is a really easy entry point to caring about climate change.
π― Action step 1 of 4: READ β Let's start by looking at a few articles together.
Today's homework is to read this article on the extinction crisis, but honestly, I won't be mad if you don't read it. I don't know that extra facts about doom are going to make you more motivated to do something about it. If you find that the facts below are enough to ground you in how big of a problem biodiversity loss is, then skip to our listen module.
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Here's some tidbits to illustrate the scope of the biodiversity crisis caused by climate change (caused by us):
If you feel scared or sad, that's absolutely how you should be feeling. It's scary. It's sad. But it's not irreversible yet. We have to stop pretending that our temporary conveniences are worth killing 1 million species. I'd rather live without toilet paper than, uh, die on an unlivable planet, and we can tackle this together.
π Checkpoint: This is the end of action step 1 of 4: READ.
π― Action step 2 of 4: LISTEN β we'll watch a short video or listen to a podcast to further expand on our topic.
Dead. The elephant in the room is officially dead. Awkward AF.
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Take 3 minutes to watch this video featuring Fiesta Warinwa, a leader from the African Wildlife Foundation. The situation in Kenya (and around the African continent... and around the world) is pretty dire.
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If you skimmed and decided "you'll watch it later", have no fear; lowlights are here:
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I'm going to stop now because this is super depressing, but remember, we are ALL part of the solution. So forget those dead elephants (sorry I made you do that). Close your eyes and imagine the most beautiful nature you've ever been in.
Keep em closed...
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Now THIS is what we're fighting for. Next, let's preserve your beautiful landscape together through actions we can all take.
π Checkpoint: This is the end of action step 2 of 4: LISTEN.
π― Action step 3 of 4: ACT β Now it's time to do something. Let's go!
It's time for joy!Β We did a lot of doom-and-gloom earlier, which IΒ usually stay away from, but we need to get real about the challenge.
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Now, let's act!
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Biiiig sigh of relief for these fun actions, right? Have a good time out in nature and then, behind your TV!
π Checkpoint: This is the end of action step 3 of 4: ACT.
Before we go any further, it's time for you to pledge your commitment. It takes less than 30 seconds to pledge and we can bother you about it in a friendly way, so we can hold each other accountable. Pledge here!
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π― Action step 4 of 4: REFLECT β what can you commit to? What fresh perspectives can we look at?
This reflect module is short and sweet.
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You'll be going on a virtual art walk!
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This exhibition, Seedscapes, showcases plant diversity and how we can save plants from extinction. It combines the work of artists, biologists, and ecologists. My favorite of the five exhibits is Liz Orton's photographs of seeds from a century ago!
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It's so inspiring to be in community with people who care about nature in all its forms. Here's to building a brighter, happier world!
βπ Checkpoint: This is the end of action step 4 of 4: REFLECT.
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Check out our membership community for more resources like free weekly events with social justice experts, sustainable product discounts, pre-written email templates, a social impact job board, and in-person hangouts with new friends. Thanks for taking action with Soapbox Project!
Get our free bite-sized climate action plans before you go!