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Advocating for the Environment: How to Gather Your Power and Take Action
An accessible, solutions-oriented guide for addressing the earth's environmental crisis and enacting meaningful change
What can we as ordinary citizens do about climate change?" While countless environmental books focus on the causes of our current crisis, Advocating for the Environment is one of the first to focus on advocacy and policy-based solutions, arming readers with the tools they need to take action and enact change.
In Part I, environmental policy expert Susan Inches discusses storytelling, empathy, mindset, and how effective communication can help us collaborate with others, even those with opposing views. Part II focuses on practical skills like coalition building, media relations, communication strategy, and navigating political and bureaucratic obstacles that block large-scale legislation. The book also includes case studies, research, and templates to deepen learning. Professors and teachers, students, legislators, environmental clubs, and church groups will also find useful ideas and strategies on every page.
What can we as ordinary citizens do about climate change?" While countless environmental books focus on the causes of our current crisis, Advocating for the Environment is one of the first to focus on advocacy and policy-based solutions, arming readers with the tools they need to take action and enact change.
In Part I, environmental policy expert Susan Inches discusses storytelling, empathy, mindset, and how effective communication can help us collaborate with others, even those with opposing views. Part II focuses on practical skills like coalition building, media relations, communication strategy, and navigating political and bureaucratic obstacles that block large-scale legislation. The book also includes case studies, research, and templates to deepen learning. Professors and teachers, students, legislators, environmental clubs, and church groups will also find useful ideas and strategies on every page.
368 pages, Paperback
Published July 13, 2021
13 people are currently reading
1016 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 27, 2022
thank god. finally. this was a nightmare and boy do i have strong opinions about this book.
i bought this book on july 2021, a month before starting my major in environmental sustainability. it's safe to say i was over the moon with my expectations on this book, the supposedly perfect welcome into the sustainable world i was eager to be a part of.
not only did this book took me several months to read because of its poor writing and lack of storytelling, but the most annoying thing about it is how US centered it is.
i'm not exaggerating when i say that about 95% of the examples provided took place in the US (Maine specifically). this is one of the biggest challenges in twenty first century sustainability. lack of diversity (preached by the author, ironically) cannot and will not lead to a sustainable world. sustainability isn't something that is only accesible for "developed" countries with strong economies and upper social classes.
the author proceeds to be extremely repetitive throughout the whole book, talking about "new and green capitalisms" (as if capitalism in itself isn't one of the main elements affecting the climate) and basically saying how to manipulate your audience to get what you want.
the book does give a few introductions on important subjects regarding the global crisis, such as individualism, interconnection and climate metaphors.
overall, my opinion on this book is that it falls on a weak spectrum of sustainability. advocating (basically manipulation described by the author) is a great step towards a more sustainable future, but it is important to note that the "skills" and "steps" presented aren't realistic for people and countries outside of the United States.
welp. this book was a huge disappointment.
i bought this book on july 2021, a month before starting my major in environmental sustainability. it's safe to say i was over the moon with my expectations on this book, the supposedly perfect welcome into the sustainable world i was eager to be a part of.
not only did this book took me several months to read because of its poor writing and lack of storytelling, but the most annoying thing about it is how US centered it is.
i'm not exaggerating when i say that about 95% of the examples provided took place in the US (Maine specifically). this is one of the biggest challenges in twenty first century sustainability. lack of diversity (preached by the author, ironically) cannot and will not lead to a sustainable world. sustainability isn't something that is only accesible for "developed" countries with strong economies and upper social classes.
the author proceeds to be extremely repetitive throughout the whole book, talking about "new and green capitalisms" (as if capitalism in itself isn't one of the main elements affecting the climate) and basically saying how to manipulate your audience to get what you want.
the book does give a few introductions on important subjects regarding the global crisis, such as individualism, interconnection and climate metaphors.
overall, my opinion on this book is that it falls on a weak spectrum of sustainability. advocating (basically manipulation described by the author) is a great step towards a more sustainable future, but it is important to note that the "skills" and "steps" presented aren't realistic for people and countries outside of the United States.
welp. this book was a huge disappointment.
April 22, 2022
Wearing my "Planeteers of Southern Maine" hat, I organized a 2 part workshop via Zoom here featuring first a talk by Sue, and 3 weeks later, a book discussion. Both events were wonderfully received, and very welcome given the "climate" these days. The book serves as a type of instructional manual - reminds me of "The Greasy Thumb Auto Mechanics Manual for Women" I had 40 years ago when I had to work on my own car! But it's more than that, because Sue's voice is more that of a coach, than instructor!
Sue is not shy about asserting that we all have a moral obligation to advocate for our environment, but she offers a gentle touch by saying that we can all choose the manner in which to contribute our time, talent and voice. That we needn't and shouldn't fear, but instead figure out what we can do, and then either run ahead and do it, or join others to run with.
I value Sue's worldview immensely, and appreciated very much the breadth of examples she refers to - both geographically speaking as well as type in making her case. The people she quoted too as chapter headings a very diverse and powerful lot. And while this book addresses ways in which to advocate for the environment, much of what she offers in the way of charting "the course" can be adapted/adopted in other arenas too, or so I feel.
From "the horse's mouth" and in light of it being Earth Day officially tomorrow:
“To restore the environment to health, we don’t need 100% agreement, but we do need critical mass - like we did in the 1970’s. 10% of the (US) population showing up for Earth Day in 1970 was enough to move Congress to pass the Clean Air and Water Acts and other environmental legislation.” [Inches, p. 86]
“It’s urgent that each and every one of us figure out a way to be an advocate for change. Fortunately, there are as many ways to advocate as there are people.” [Inches p. 26]
“Power is created through organizing and creating community, which is Good News! Research confirms that our perception of how much impact we can have depends on our sense of community. If we feel we can join others and make an impact, we are likely to act. But if we feel overwhlemed by an issue and have little sense of community, we are likely to feel there’s nothing we can do to make a difference.” [Inches pp 137 & 140]
Hope all readers of this fantastic book find and follow their path to advocate for the environment!
Sue is not shy about asserting that we all have a moral obligation to advocate for our environment, but she offers a gentle touch by saying that we can all choose the manner in which to contribute our time, talent and voice. That we needn't and shouldn't fear, but instead figure out what we can do, and then either run ahead and do it, or join others to run with.
I value Sue's worldview immensely, and appreciated very much the breadth of examples she refers to - both geographically speaking as well as type in making her case. The people she quoted too as chapter headings a very diverse and powerful lot. And while this book addresses ways in which to advocate for the environment, much of what she offers in the way of charting "the course" can be adapted/adopted in other arenas too, or so I feel.
From "the horse's mouth" and in light of it being Earth Day officially tomorrow:
“To restore the environment to health, we don’t need 100% agreement, but we do need critical mass - like we did in the 1970’s. 10% of the (US) population showing up for Earth Day in 1970 was enough to move Congress to pass the Clean Air and Water Acts and other environmental legislation.” [Inches, p. 86]
“It’s urgent that each and every one of us figure out a way to be an advocate for change. Fortunately, there are as many ways to advocate as there are people.” [Inches p. 26]
“Power is created through organizing and creating community, which is Good News! Research confirms that our perception of how much impact we can have depends on our sense of community. If we feel we can join others and make an impact, we are likely to act. But if we feel overwhlemed by an issue and have little sense of community, we are likely to feel there’s nothing we can do to make a difference.” [Inches pp 137 & 140]
Hope all readers of this fantastic book find and follow their path to advocate for the environment!
September 23, 2022
I'm currently teaching a class on climate advocacy and came across this book. I like it. It's written in plain language. It's written by a former policy writer so it feels a little more substantial than many of the other guide to advocacy that you see. I have students in my policy and advocacy classes that will take a lot of different paths to being an advocate and so this book is good from that respect. And like any good book on a topic like this it provides actions and steps for you to take. But in does need to be paired with other readings on equity and global examples. Although the core framework here would work in any situation. I haven't had students read it yet, so I don't know how it will appeal to them. Not always written in a reader friendly way so that could lower my rating.
November 30, 2024
I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to make any kind of change in their communities who feels their efforts aren’t working. This book clearly lays out concrete, actionable steps you can make to implement the changes you are looking for, with anecdotes proving these strategies have actually worked.
Inches demonstrates why certain movements have not actually brought about any policy changes or protected the people they were trying to protect, and what they could have done differently. It is non-partisan, positive, and practical, and shows that you do in fact have power if you harness it in the right way and direct it towards the right people. An essential read in our polarized climate.
Inches demonstrates why certain movements have not actually brought about any policy changes or protected the people they were trying to protect, and what they could have done differently. It is non-partisan, positive, and practical, and shows that you do in fact have power if you harness it in the right way and direct it towards the right people. An essential read in our polarized climate.
January 30, 2022
This book is an excellent must-read for climate and environmental advocates, especially those planning to enter climate policymaking and legislation. Though there is a discernible difference because the context of this book is on the political arena of the United States and the State of Maine, much can still be learned from this book. The first part is particularly useful for those still new to environmental advocacy. The second part is designed for those currently planning on launching their advocacy. I have been using this book when I give talks on climate advocacy, and it’s my go-to reference now that I’m designing a policy-related campaign with my organization.
October 5, 2021
If you're looking for practical steps an individual can take to help save our planet, this is the book for you. Based on the author's experience as a successful advocate for change in her home state of Maine and her faith in the power of informed, positive activists, she presents a clear map for preserving and improving our environment. Her teaching background and communication skills make this text a powerful tool for mission-driven high school and college students, community groups, and all who are feeling overwhelmed in terms of where to begin to make a difference.
October 26, 2021
Sue Inches turns what could have been a straightforward how-to book into something much more. She crafts a narrative that draws on her personal experiences, tantalizing us with tricks of the trade garnered though a broad and successful career in both the public and private sectors. The reader will finish with a clear understanding of why advocacy matters and how to do it! Lots of ideas that can inspire over the long term.
January 14, 2022
Sue Inches' book is a great blend of clear-eyed optimism and practical advice on advocating for the environment. When it's difficult to know how to make change, she makes the point that we as individuals can, and must, take action to protect our planet. It's a great book for those already committed and engaged with environmental causes, or a primer for those new and wondering what to do first.
August 17, 2021
Good how to book on forming grassroots political organizations for a cause - climate change, in this case, but could be adapted to other social issues.
this was a goodreads giveaway
this was a goodreads giveaway
September 9, 2021
Great information
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews