Why We Should Stay Hopeful After A Year Of Troubling News

It's fair to say 2025 was a difficult year. A year of environmental and political chaos and social destabilization from multiple wars and climate disasters. This past year also saw the defunding of major renewable energy projects in the United States, this despite the reality of climate change being felt all around us. All of this has led many to become pessimistic about the future, but it is important to appreciate the victories and remain hopeful by focusing on what went well and how we might do better in the coming year. 

The beautiful Colorado Rocky Mountains in winter

LET'S START WITH THE BIG ENVIRONMENTAL WINS! In 2025, wind, solar and other renewable energies became the world's leading energy source. Many endangered species are no longer endangered, such as the green turtle, whose population has increased due to conservation efforts. The green turtle is now labeled as “least concern” on the IUCN’s Red List. In my own backyard, the Colorado Rocky Mountains, I saw more bears and cubs roaming around this summer than every before and the state has reintroduced the gray wolf to the wild. Pope Leo continued the late Pope Francis's campaign for environmental justice. In his message to the United Nations’ climate conference, he said we must “Protect and care for the creation entrusted to us by God in order to build a peaceful world.” Backing words with action, Vatican City operates on 100% renewable energy More then 40 other countries get at least half of their energy from renewables. FireSat was launched, which are basically satellites that can spot wildfires early almost anywhere on the planet. And the Sierra Club was able to accomplish some incredible climate victories, too. The organization prevented a million acres of public land from being sold off, improved energy affordability, and prevented the illegal firings of many national park and forest service employees. “These victories are more than accomplishments – they’re proof that when we organize, we win,” the Sierra Club said in a statement.

While many believe that the health of the environment is in the hands of the world's biggest governments and people in power, that is not the case. So, what can we do as individuals? For starters, volunteer or donate! If possible, commit some of you time and/or money to organizations such as Sierra Club who fight day in and day out for environmental justice. World Wildlife Fund is another amazing organization, helping protect wildlife and their habitats. The Rainforest Trust puts 100% of donations towards rainforest conservation. One Tree Planted helps restore forest habitat, sequestering carbon from the air and helping fight climate change. There are many more great organizations – The Environmental Defense Fund, Natural Resources Defense Council, The Nature Conservancy, Water.org, Earthjustice. The list goes on! Do your research, find the environmental organization that aligns with your passions and get involved!

In addition to volunteering and donating to great organizations, here's a short list of things we should keep in mind that we can incorporate into our lives in 2026:

• Reduce what you purchase, reuse and recycle

• Take shorter showers, and reduce water use overall

• Properly dispose of e-waste

• Use sustainable transportation such as biking, carpool, bus, train, or walking

• Buy products locally, from local farmers markets and brands, as opposed to chains

• Buy products that are fair-trade

• Donate and thrift clothing

• Start Composing

• Plant trees

• Reduce chemicals in your house, such as detergents, dish soaps, cleaning products,  shampoos, body scrubs, skincare, etc.

• Avoid products with excess packaging 

• Use LED light bulbs

• Reduce beef and dairy consumption

• Eat locally sourced, organic food

• Stay positive, be kind to one another, and lend a helping hand to those in need!

As an individual, if you do just a few of these things you are making a difference. Now imagine thousands and millions of us doing just a few of these things. The positive change would be felt around the world! Thank you for reading and doing your part to ensure that we and future generations will enjoy a cleaner, greener planet!