As an environmental science student, I think about environmental issues on a daily basis. I think about it during class and in my daily activities at home. After almost five semesters in the discipline, thinking about the environment has become almost a habit. Climate change, in particular, is often on my mind because of the gravity of the issue. It threatens not only the environment but also the health and livelihood of us all.

 Though I think about climate change often, it’s still difficult for me to digest sometimes, as I’m sure it is for most people. Climate change can be so overwhelming that it is difficult for me to wrap my mind around any sort of solution. I sometimes get caught up in different projects and suggestions for change, without being able to latch onto any one, specifically.

What I forget is that the issue does not have to be so daunting. Of course, the issue is complicated, and there isn’t one simple fix. Still, it is important to remember that we can solve this problem given that we use the right tools and take the right steps. One thing that is always clear to me is that it is something that affects each of us, and we all must take action.

The Climate Carnival coming up this Saturday, October 24 is a great opportunity to do just that. The event is part of the International Day of Climate Action, centered on the idea that we must bring our carbon dioxide emissions down to 350 parts per million. Scientists agree that this level is safe for the environment, but we currently have a carbon dioxide concentration of 390 ppm in the atmosphere. By focusing on one important number, the Climate Carnival will allow all of us to process the issue of climate change and take the next step in solving it.

The Climate Carnival is aimed at individuals of all ages. Activities will include the following: 350 Limbo, 350 Beanbag Toss, Coal Plant Knock Down, Polar Bear Mask Coloring, Call Your Senator Phone Booth, Wheel of Warming (of course!), “The Lorax” cartoon, excerpts from the National Geographic documentary “Six Degrees Could Change the World,” and presentations from local climate activists. It will take place from 10-2 at the John and Mary Pappajohn Education Center located at 1200 Grand Avenue in Des Moines.

Attending events like the Climate Carnival are so important because they knock down barriers that climate change as an issue sets up. They allow us to get past the fact that climate change can be daunting. Instead of sitting around waiting for others to fix the problem, we are able to take the initiative to do something. The Climate Carnival will allow individuals to become educated about climate change and really make the issue their own.

Participants can also take action by contacting their senators and urging them to pass a climate bill. The ultimate goal of the day is also to push all world leaders to make serious commitments at the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen. While it is extremely important for us to make changes in our daily lives, like using less energy, in order to fight climate change, it is vital for our leaders to pass climate legislation. Without their dedication, goals like reducing carbon dioxide concentrations to 350 ppm will be impossible. Let us use the Climate Carnival as a springboard for both personal and political action.

Hope to see you there!