Summer Gives Residents an Opportunity to Take Climate Action

Just as the most recent legislative session was coming to a close in May, the State House of Representatives passed House Bill 5004, a robust climate bill that would have helped Connecticut’s citizens and businesses mitigate and respond to climate-related challenges. Unfortunately, the State Senate failed to pass the bill in time, stalling the effort.

There was renewed hope that a special session toward the end of June would provide another chance to take up the legislation, but it’s increasingly likely that any climate-change bills will have to wait until the next regular session—in January 2025—or perhaps another special session later in the fall.

While this is disappointing to many who had hoped for substantial climate action from our government, it is also an opportunity for us as individuals to do what we can.

For one, we can reconsider how we get around. It’s common knowledge that our transportation accounts for a significant percentage of greenhouse gas emissions—about a quarter according to the United Nations.

Here in Wethersfield, we’re fortunate to have so many businesses, parks, and restaurants within walking or biking distance. Opting to walk or cycle instead of drive is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying our beautiful town (just remember to stay hydrated!).

Beyond leaving our cars in the driveway, we can also rethink our summer vacations. Air travel is emissions-intensive. Luckily, New England has plenty of enticing vacation spots, from beaches to mountains, and a getaway closer to home can be fun for the family and better for the environment.

In addition to reassessing how we travel, we can also make a difference with how we purchase clothes. The shift to the warmer season often brings new additions to our respective wardrobes; however, the fashion industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions and also consumes an immense amount of water.

Resisting the temptation to throw out last year’s clothes and purchase new, “fast fashion” items is a meaningful way to minimize our carbon footprint.

Last but certainly not least, shopping for local foods not only helps our state’s farmers but reduces the emissions associated with transportation and cold chain storage (and lessens the potential for food loss).

This summer, farmer’s markets are popping up all over the state. These are a perfect opportunity to enjoy local agricultural products while making an impact.

There are many ways to lessen our emissions and the overall carbon footprint here in Connecticut. Caring for our climate and environment is less about sacrificing our lifestyle and more about being mindful with how we travel, shop, and eat. I encourage my neighbors and fellow residents to use this summer as a chance to examine their personal impact and to explore new activities that can have a positive effect on our shared world.

We don’t have to rely solely on our legislators to fix climate change. This summer, we can all be part of the solution. That said, we shouldn’t lose focus on the impact our government can have with regards to the climate.

Meaningful, responsible climate legislation must remain a priority for our lawmakers. I hope everyone in Connecticut pays attention to how the upcoming legislative agenda evolves—if environmental policy slips in importance, it’s on us to let our representatives know that they have a responsibility to care for and safeguard our world.

Especially in an election year where political priorities can shift suddenly, residents who are concerned by climate change must let their concerns be known. Call our legislators, write a letter, participate in an election event. As November approaches, we need to ensure climate change remains top of mind.