Join an organization like the Cousteau Society that provides global information and a broad view of environmental issues. This will give you a solid foundation and a context for understanding the world around you. Read the organization’s publications and look for the same kinds of issues in your local newspaper, especially as they relate to your community’s government and institutions.

Join a local group that works on one or more issues in your community. Since regulations and agencies are specific to each locale, an on-site group can tackle specific problems better. The reference desk at a nearby library can provide assistance in finding directories of environmental organizations. Volunteer your time: environmental groups usually need manpower and you will benefit from understanding better how problems are tackled. If no local groups exist, seek out people with similar interests and organize a group. Choose one of the issues you have learned about and identified in your own area. Decide on a plan of action. Use letters to the editor of the newspaper and community bulletin boards to muster support.