Growing up in a world that seems to be full of environmental problems can be a scary thing.

Learning more about environmental issues and then taking action on sustainable choices can have real and positive impacts on our communties, schools, families and workplaces.  Young people have more cultural leverage than we think! 

Taking action on environmental issues can be empowering for you and your peers and sets an important example as we work to develop a society committed to change.  Your work is important and valuable!

Some things to consider:

• Learning about issues and then sharing information with others are powerful ways to help build change. Your personal commitment to informed and thoughtful action provides a basis for reaching out to others and making a real difference.
• Often young people set examples for both older and younger generations.  This doesn't mean it's all up to you, but remember that you can be a source of influence and inspiration.
• Sometimes it can feel like you're the only one - you're not!  See some of the links in this section of Living Green, Living Well for resources on how to connect with other youth around Manitoba who are working on environmental issues. 
• It can be difficult for people to make changes in their lives and see things differently.  Remember that the evidence was there before you saw it, too. People absorb information and act on it at their own pace.  While this doesn't mean people can't learn to do things differently, we think patience is very useful. For example, people may resist an idea the first time it is raised. But it gets them thinking. And when the same idea pops up a third or fourth time, they may finally be ready to accept it. The lesson for activists -- be persistent.
• People in positions of authority (teachers, employers, parents, elected representatives) are often more willing to hear what you have to say than you might expect - ao keep trying! You do have voice and influence.
• Projects take time and energy. Don't try to do it alone. Gather friends and peers to help you with what you're trying to do.  Usually, the more ideas and the more energy, the better!  And just think what all their friends and peers could do once they get on board, and theirs, and theirs...
• Remember to take time for yourself, too.  We need to take care of ourselves while we do this work, and keep the positive in mind.  There's no point in burning out now!
• Small steps make a difference.  Be careful not to take on everything at once. A bit at a time tends to be much easier than trying to change the whole world by the end of the day.  Start small, and build from there.