A Semiquincentennial Challenge: Demand Protection for Our Planet No Matter Who Wins

In 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed. That separation from British rule is the declaration by the country’s Founding Fathers that we remember best.

But at the time, some of them — including Benjamin Franklin — promoted ideas about clean air and the need to conserve natural resources. As Franklin noted, “When the well is dry, we know the value of water.”

For the last 250 years, plenty of individuals have taken the lead on environmental issues. Rosalie Edge was instrumental in securing the creation of Olympic National Park.

Rachel Carson alerted us to the dangers of synthetic pesticides. Such individual efforts have created ripple effects, inspiring others to embrace efforts to protect the environment in a myriad of ways.

In 1776, the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere hovered around 280 parts per million (ppm). There were no significant human-caused CO2 emissions. Today we have soared over 416 ppm — far above the pre-industrial range.

At times the problem seems way too large to be managed with just individual action.

Over the last 250 years, about 30 percent of North America’s forests have been cleared for agriculture and urban development.

That’s led to important habitat loss. Runoff from agriculture and other industries, plus urban stormwater, has polluted about 45% of the rivers and streams in the United States, and we continue to exploit other resources.

Individual actions and behavioral changes are critically important to solving the multi-pronged crises of air and water pollution and the degradation of our lands. We know we also need legislative changes to provide the teeth needed to effect change.

So, what can you do?

For one, if you are not already, get involved in the civic process — not just by voting but by participating year ’round.

Research the environmental records of candidates who want to represent you in office. Dig deep into their platforms, their past and current statements and their records — if they have one. Don’t rely on political ads or glossy brochures for information.

In Colorado, the primary election was held at the end of June. That means we know which Democrats and which Republicans will face off in the November general election. Numerous statewide seats will be decided — including who will be Colorado’s next governor, attorney general, and secretary of state. The congressional elections will help determine the balance of power in Washington, DC.

I can’t think of anything more patriotic than to learn how candidates who want to represent us at all levels of government stand on critical environmental issues.

Over the next several months, I urge you to show up at candidates’ forums. Ask the candidates about their views on the climate crisis — and what specifically they will do to help solve it.

Elected officials are supposed to be accountable to us, their constituents. Our end of the bargain is that we must hold them accountable. That means, no matter who wins, keep showing up. After Election Day, contact your newly-elected representatives immediately. Remind them what is important to you.

Continue to send emails, attend town halls, and let them know that you are paying attention to how they vote.

As we mark America’s 250th birthday, there is no better reminder that democracy depends on us showing up.

We all have the power to influence public policy. Use it to help our planet.

This opinion piece was originally published in The Greater Park Hill News, where the author is a monthly columnist. Previous columns can be found at greaterparkhill.org/?s=tracey+macdermott

Promise for the Planet

What is Promise for the Planet?

Promise for the Planet is an Earth Month 2026 campaign that turns good intentions into concrete commitments.

Instead of broad platitudes about "going green," they give people 100 specific, achievable actions across nine categories — from switching to LED bulbs to divesting from fossil fuels — and ask them to promise the ones they'll actually do.

The idea is simple: a promise is more powerful than a wish.

When you publicly commit to specific actions — and share those commitments with your community — you're far more likely to follow through. And when thousands of people make promises together, the impact compounds.

They’re making Earth Day more than one day—because real change takes more than 24 hours.

Climate Reality Project Denver Metro Chapter

Our own Tracey MacDermott, Chair of the Environment and Sustainable Development Committee said, “the Promise for the Planet campaign was started by my team at the Denver Metro Chapter for the Climate Reality Project.”

On their website she explained, “It consists of a collective of eco-conscious individuals committed to combating climate change right here in Denver. Founded as part of Al Gore's Climate Reality Project, our chapter brings the global climate movement to the local level.”

Their mission at Promise for the Planet is to educate, advocate, and inspire action for a sustainable future.

With that in mind, they host community events, advocate for policy change at local and state levels, and empower individuals to take meaningful action — like Promise for the Planet.

They are convinced that “we must face this crisis head on. Join a community of citizens passionate about solving the climate crisis today.” More info at Climate Reality Denver.

Sign up here to commit to at least one promise to support this cause! And let Tracey know by emailing environment@nfbpwc.org so she can share the individual commitments of BPW members in future issues.

Content and logo from Promise for the Planet.

Tracey MacDermott
Chair
Environment & Sustainable Development
environment@nfbpwc.org