Voting is important for creating a just, sustainable, and thriving world because, in theory, supports what the people want and can make a big change in current and future policies that are not severing the community anymore. Local voting is especially important as that is what is going to directly impact the community you live in and add to the change you want to see on a bigger scale. I think another way that people can actively participate in decision making is being aware. What is coming up on the ballot? Are they registered? Are their friends and family members register and aware of current issues? When does voting start and end and how are you and others around you planning on voting? Being aware of the process, your plan, and what is on the ballot is arguably more important that the voting itself because if you do not have a plan or understand the changes you are voting on it does not do you good. Encourage others to partake in your plan to vote, discuss issues and go to together to vote! 

I realized that just because I use slightly lower than an average household in energy doesn’t mean I am doing the best I can to decrease that energy intake. There are so many more little things I could be conscious of such as unplugging items in my home when not in use, walking more to our local store or farmers market, using less heat or AC unless it is absolutely needed, and so on. Being more conscious of my day to day about the little changeable habits don’t add any stress to me and can be add up to be a big personal impact to the climate crisis. 

 One way I will reduce water use is being more conscious of where I shop and what I am buying. I understand there is give and take and I cannot always spend the money for the top ethically made clothing but instead focus on second hand clothing, repairing what I currently own, and only replacing what I need instead of shopping for fun or with trends. 

Balance is important in sustainability because we come from the Earth along with every other living thing. Humans tend to hide behind their technology and complex lives. They can sometimes be so removed and disconnected from the land, plants and animals around them, where their food comes from, the extreme weather, bacteria, and even other humans. Without balance we are going to continue to become more disconnected with our world as well as be more willing to keep going as well are without putting in the work. With the advancements we have in our knowledge and technology we have continuously proven to ourselves that the climate crisis is real and there are copious amounts of scientific evidence available stating that we need to change our ways and hold one another accountable in this change. In addition, supporting accountability in legislation and corporations who would rather turn a blind eye. We do not have time for anti-science policies or lack of forward movement. Listening and supporting the Indigenous communities that have been caring for this Earth long before ourselves and following suit in their steps of restoration is one of the most important actions we can start taking to help the climate crisis. 

I've thought about my windows and appliances before but there were a lot more parts of my home that I can make more energy efficient!

Voting is important because the people in power make decisions about our environment and out society. We have to vote for people who have our best interest in mind 

A sustainable society means that all people and all experiences are included. If we leave out the experiences of trans, femme, and nonbinary people, we are not creating a sustainable community.

Respecting the resources we get from the earth is so important. So we need to have a balance between what we give and take or we will just completely run out

I volunteered at my local farmer's market picking up trash and ensuring vendors and guests disposed of everything correctly so we can keep our streets and events clean and as low waste!

Agricultural biodiversity is imporatant to the environment because ecosystems whether it is in the wild or in the soil or farming are important systems that create balance and weave together to support one another. If one part of biodiversity is threatened or out of balance it will most likely effect a lot more than the eye can see in other systems that inturn affect animals and humans alike.