A solutions-focused inspirational guide for addressing the earth's environmental crisis and enacting meaningful change.
As we find ourselves living in an age of unprecedented environmental peril, the impact of climate change is being experienced around the globe. This book answers the critical question, "What can we as ordinary citizens do about it?" While there are countless environmental books focusing on the causes of our current crisis, Advocating for the Environment is one of the first of its kind to focus on advocacy and policy-based solutions, arming general readers with the tools they need to take action and enact change. In Part I, author Susan Inches discusses storytelling, empathy, mindset, and how effective communication can help us to achieve specific goals and collaborate with others (even those with opposing views). Part II focuses on skills such as coalition building, media relations, the difference between tactics and strategy, communication strategy, and how to navigate political and bureaucratic hurdles that stand in the way of passing large-scale legislation. The author also includes case studies, research, and templates to scaffold learning. This book is the ideal guide for aspiring activists of all ages. Professors and teachers, students, legislators, environmental clubs, and church groups will also find useful ideas, strategies, and methods on every page. SUSAN INCHES has worked in environmental policy for over 25 years. She served for 14 years as a senior official in Maine state government where she conducted research, designed and led public engagement processes, and drafted, lobbied and passed legislation. Always curious and wanting to learn new things, she's worked on numerous policy issues including renewable energy, energy efficiency, land use planning, the working waterfront, building and energy codes, rural development, rural broadband, and fisheries management.
Inches now works as a consultant, teacher, and advocate with a focus on the environment and climate change. She developed and teaches a unique course called Advocating for the Environment at several private colleges. She also offers public workshops, consulting, and webinars on the same topic. She's an active member of the Sierra Club, the Maine Power for Maine People Coalition, and serves on the boards of First Parish Yarmouth and Defend Our Health.
