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How has environmental activism changed over time?

Dollie Melloi

Hey friend!

That's a great question – There have been a lot of changes in environmental activism over time!

To start, environmental activism isn't a new concept – people have been advocating for environmental causes for centuries. However, the modern environmental movement really kicked off in the 1960s and 1970s, largely in response to concerns about pollution and other environmental issues. This movement brought about a lot of changes – the establishment of the EPA, the Clean Air Act, and the Endangered Species Act, just to name a few.

Since then, environmental activism has evolved in a lot of ways. Some of the biggest changes include:

1. A shift towards a broader view of environmentalism: While early environmental activism focused primarily on pollution and other issues caused by human activity, today's environmentalists tend to take a more holistic view of environmentalism. This means considering issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.

2. An emphasis on grassroots activism: In recent years, there has been a shift towards local, grassroots activism. This means that activists are focused less on big, national campaigns and more on making change within their own communities. This might include things like community gardens, local recycling programs, or advocacy for local environmental policies.

3. Increased use of social media: Social media has really changed the way that environmental activism operates. It's now easier than ever to connect with like-minded people, share information, and organize events. Social media has also made it easier for activists to get their message out to a broader audience.

4. A growing focus on intersectionality: Finally, environmental activism is increasingly recognizing the ways in which environmental issues intersect with other social justice concerns. This might include issues like racism, poverty, and gender inequality. This recognition has led to a broader, more inclusive environmental movement that is focused on creating a more just and equitable world for everyone.

Overall, I think that environmental activism has come a long way over the years. While there is still a lot of work to be done, I'm hopeful that we can continue to make progress and create a better, more sustainable world.