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At the start of this month, I attended the March to Keep Connecticut’s Climate Promise. People of all backgrounds—students, activists, members of nonprofits, and others concerned about environmental issues in Connecticut—marched together to remind elected officials and regulatory agencies of their duty to act in the best interests of the people they serve. The march began at the Old State House. It ended at the Connecticut State Capitol, with stops at Eversource CT, Travelers Insurance, and the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP) in between. I was disheartened to see that of all the locations we visited, only two people—one from DEEP and one from the Capitol—came out to hear what we had to say.

The climate march was about more than just global warming. Climate change is a complex issue with consequences that affect nearly every aspect of daily life. The signs and chants of the march referred to challenges such as addressing the biodiversity crisis, creating green jobs, divesting from fossil fuel infrastructure and investing in clean energy systems, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting corporate responsibility, supporting environmental justice, managing housing inequality, and keeping the planet healthy for future generations. All of these topics have a direct relationship with climate change.

I attended the march on behalf of CLCC, a proponent of nature-based solutions. One of the best ways to mitigate the effects of climate change is through land conservation. Conserving Connecticut’s land allows us to retain natural carbon sinks, protect habitats for wildlife, build resilience against natural disasters, maintain clean air and water, and keep the land healthy for future generations, among many other benefits for the environment and people in the state.

The turnout for the march and the visibility of the event were both high. However, there is still more work to be done. Until our legislators and the organizations operating in our state take action to keep Connecticut’s climate promise, we must continue advocating for the environment. This year’s legislative session is only 13 weeks, so time is of the essence to take action. Whether attending a committee meeting at the Capitol, volunteering with your local land trust, emailing your legislators, or testifying at a public hearing, your voice makes a difference.