It's common to have mixed feelings about the climate crisis.
In a Pew Research survey conducted in 2021, 72% of respondents reported feeling at least somewhat concerned that climate change would harm them, and 80% said they were willing to make changes in their lives to reduce the effects of climate change. But over 50% of respondents indicated they weren't very confident that large-scale, global efforts could make a difference.
As the increase in global average temperatures quickly approaches the crucial threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius, one thing is clear: Leaders have the power to reverse course and transform policies, industries, and their communities for the better.
Insider's One Planet initiative is meant to signal a shift in the climate-action conversation, offering tangible, informative steps people can take to combat the crisis and create change.
To ground our coverage, we've convened an advisory council of some of the most impactful leaders in the climate world. They've dedicated their lives to ensuring the future of the planet — and they're igniting movements to correct the inequities exacerbated by the crisis.
We asked each council member to share what they're most hopeful about when it comes to the climate crisis, as well as the bright spots that push them forward.