Consider environmental activism as beginning with how one conducts one s own life. As Americans, we use far more energy and resources than virtually everyone else in the world. Before we wave the environmental banner to prevent, say, oil exploration in northern Alaska, we should consider reducing or mitigating our own activities that lead to the perceived need for such exploration. Conduct an energy audit of one s home. Recycle to the maximum extent possible.
Gardeners can begin a compost pile.
Use air conditioning sparingly. For the wealthy among us, consider down-scaling the plans for that new home. Each of us is a Sierra Club member because we, at least instinctively, understand the need for an ingrained conservation ethic among Americans, in the absence of which the Sierra Club is swimming against a very strong tide. Beyond one s immediate life, focus on local issues. For example, buy and read a copy of your community s zoning regulations, and follow the progress and understand the implications of local development proposals.