What Can We Do in Our Communities?

Understand Your Local Environmental Issues - Does your community face a water pollution problem, soil erosion, or a faltering tree canopy? Help your community stay informed by putting together a listening session at a community center — or even writing an op-ed for a local publication.
Plan Educational Presentations - Take the above idea a little further by planning an evening or afternoon of presentations or a local “green action” day where community members can sign up for volunteer opportunities related to environmental causes. Contact local community centers, churches, or libraries for possible venues.
Organize a Community Hike with a Nature Expert - Find a local who’s passionate about the unique environmental features of your area and whose enthusiasm encourages activism and time spent enjoying nature.
Build a Community Garden - Get volunteers who have a combination of horticulture and construction skills to create raised beds — and fill them with delicious vegetables. Tip: Create a summer watering schedule to share the work.
Install Solar Panels - Do you have a community clubhouse? Investigate the cost and potential energy savings of installing solar panels on the roof.
Plant Wildflowers Native to Your Area - Get permission to add native flowers to common areas in your neighborhood.
Participate in an Adopt-a-Highway Event - These programs not only work to clean up local environments but also to educate the public on the importance of proper trash disposal.
Join a Green Committee - Initiate or join a group dedicated to taking action on environmental issues important to your area.
Send Letters - Write an email or letter to your state representative or senator about issues and policies important to the environment in your community.
Plant Trees in Community Areas - One acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of oxygen, enough to meet the annual needs of 18 people, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Assess any areas in your neighborhood that could use a helping green thumb.