Leah Thomas Says There's A Better Way To Think About Climate Change
When global warming feels overwhelming, the environmentalist finds wisdom in the earth's biodiversity, what it means to self sustain, and the belief that an abundance of solutions exist.
By Leah Thomas
Photos by Maddy Rotman
Published
Sustainable living is often marketed as a life rooted in sacrifice: super seriousness, intentionality at all times, moral superiority and a total and rigid rejection of any plastic. While doing what we can to ensure the earth is healthy for years to come is one of the most important tasks we face, I’ve been spending a lot of time thinking about what balance looks like.
As an environmental educator, I feel an immense responsibility not to preach, shame or show up in this space with fear when I can avoid it. I want to approach this work with gentleness moving forward because kindness is also powerful in creating change. I think the sustainability movement needs a makeover, one rooted in radical love for ourselves, our communities and the planet as well as a joyful sense of imagination and curiosity.