They're called 'pollinators,' but they're not bees. They're people. And they're heroes.
"With challenge comes opportunity." That pretty much sums up the way we should look at climate change, doesn't it? If we focus on making changes instead of just talking about the problem — which can make it feel so overwhelming that it's easy to shut down and ignore it — we'll see good things happen. Here are nine great independent stories from around the globe that will give you hope. I'd never heard of a single one of these. Finally, a feel-good video about climate change!
Here's an overview of the stories in the video (and where you can find them). But don't rely on my short summaries. These are really cool in-depth stories about people and the interesting, good things they're doing.
India, 1:21
A social business called Pollinate Energy is bringing solar energy to some of the 390 million people in India who have no access to electricity. The solar lanterns are a pretty neat looking solution to a big problem.
Ghana, 3:32
Green entrepreneurship in Ghana is being led by women. The bamboo bikes initiative is building cleaner transportation — and careers for women. (Bamboo bikes!)
Australia, 5:26
1 Million Women is an organization that inspires women to save energy, cut pollution, and reduce waste. 'Cause little actions in our daily lives have real outcomes. I love their honesty about the privilege they have in life and what they can do with it.
Bangladesh, 7:54
ActionAid International works from the ground up to help locals solve problems caused by climate change. The women in a village found a way to protect rice farming and carried out the necessary actions. I'll just mention how positive I think it is that women are banding together to come up with — and execute — solutions to problems that could otherwise be devastating.
Kenya, 9:43
Women living in the arid northern part of Kenya are working with the BOMA Project to adapt to climate change by earning an income from small businesses they're starting. The savings allows them to make it through droughts. In two years, they can double their earnings.
Ghana, 11:47
The Recycle Not A Waste Initiative employs disadvantaged people in poor urban communities to turn recyclable waste into eco-friendly goods. The beads made from cassette tapes are incredible.
Mexico, 14:09
The Mexican government partnered with international development banks. They encourage builders to design homes that decrease carbon footprints.
Philippines, 16:30
The Sustainable Energy Finance Program teaches banks about clean energy and encourages them to lend to sustainable energy projects.
China, 18:20
The country has a national climate fund that supports efforts to deal with climate change.
Michelle and her mother on a beachCourtesy of Michelle Santizo
The Santizo familyCourtesy of Michelle Santizo
Courtesy of CeraVe
Courtesy of Elaine Ahn
Courtesy of Elaine Ahn