The realities of global warning are becoming increasingly dismal.
But in her latest book ‘What If We Get It Right?’
Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson explains that we already have the answers we need.
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Imagine this: No wildfires.
Or 100-year-hurricanesor droughts or floods every year.
Our coral reefs are vibrant; the microplastics are gone.
There is sustainable public transportation, clean energy, and lush landscapes.
Or it feels just that,imaginary.
While Dr. Johnson doesnt belittle the big problems climate change presents, she also believes them to be solvable.
Leah Thomas: What drew you to the world of marine biology and environmentalism?
Ayana Elizabeth Johnson:From a very young age, what drew me to it is love.
LT: Are there some positive ways you’ve seen the environmental movement shift over the decades?
AEJ:Its great how multigenerational the environmental movement has become.
Im also starting to finally see the environmental movement become more prominent in mainstream pop culture.
Better late than never, the status quo has shifted toward sustainability and climate action being a no-brainer.
Like, of course we should all be helping to safeguard life on this rad, unique planet.
What would you say to someone who feels apathy towards action?
AEJ:I would say, dont worry about staying hopeful.
Instead, focus on being useful, and advancing solutions.
Hope is actually not a prerequisite for action.
This can work both ways each generation has a lot to learn from the others.
Getting involved in climate solutions is not about quitting your job or starting your own nonprofit.
One simple way I like to envision that is through what I call my climate action Venn diagram.
What work needs doing?
What brings you joy?
I think having more and more answers to this what if we get it right?
Why was it important for you to include such a broad range of voices?
All hands (and minds and hearts) on deck.
Climate change is the gnarliest, most gargantuan problem humanity has ever faced.
We need hundreds of solutions.
We just need to implement them…quickly!
LT: You’ve helpfully included a playlist for the readers.
AEJ:The very last page in the book is my Anti-Apocalypse Mixtape.
AEJ:Personally, Im not an optimist.
Im a scientist, a realist.
And you know what?
This story appears in the 2024 Changemakers Issue ofMarie Claire.
But would I do it again?
The late pope spared no expense when it came to treating the infant prince in 2014.
Skip the shampoos, glosses, and treatments.
