Photo by Jean-christophe Gougeon on Unsplash
Recently I’ve noticed a rise in a particular kind of article, and argument, even from environmental commentators. The main message runs like this: individual change is both hard and pointless. We can do what we like given that individual impact is so insignificant; it is only companies and governments that need to change. It is understandable, especially in a world where governments and major polluting companies don’t seem to listen to individuals. But my counter message is this: individual action and willingness to change is absolutely necessary, though not sufficient, for the societal shifts needed to prevent societal and climate collapse. Yes of course, only systemic change will do; but that begins with individual actions.
The ‘why bother when I’m one of 8 billion’ argument requires these assumptions:
- everyone consumes the same amount;
- every action consumes the same amount;
- anyone is too small to make a difference; and
- technology will save us.
With these assumptions comes the claim that cutting out flying, eating meat, or private cars are a waste of time because nobody else will bother. The ‘why deny yourself these luxuries’ narrative is also attractive to the people who cannot imagine things to be different and better.
But things can be different and better. There is an alternative, more empowering and effective outlook on the role of individual action. Individual action is impactful from high consumers, and willingness to change is essential from all. So, let’s debunk each pernicious myth one-by-one.
1. “Everyone consumes the same amount”
The richest 10% of people produce half of the world’s carbon emissions, while the poorest half contribute just 10%. To be in the top 10% of the world’s population, you probably don’t need need as much as you might think. According to the 2022 Global Wealth Report from Credit Suisse Research Institute, a total wealth of USD $138,346 (GBP £109,900) would put you in the top 10% globally. This isn’t just how much you might have in a bank account, but includes any property, car, computer, and any equity you might have. According to the UK census 2021, this puts > 30% of the…