Can you imagine a world that is powered by renewable energy? Where pointlessly packaged foods are left on the shelf, and there’s no such thing as “waste” because the love of earth takes precedence over the buying of stuff? 

What about a world where the traditional custodians of the land are actively listened to and uplifted? Where the politicians elected to power advocate for and invest in regenerative solutions that will heal our planet?

It might sound idealistic, but this is the world climate activist Natalie Isaacs is building, and she’s empowering women everywhere to help her get it done. 

In 2009, the former beauty exec kickstarted a conversation about the biggest challenge facing the world today: climate change. Now, she inspires a global movement of women and girls to take matters into their own hands through the 1 Million Women project. 

Launched before ‘Zero Waste Living’ was a common catch-cry, the 1 Million Women project is a social media phenomenon influencing an eye watering 1,015,419 followers (and counting!) to tackle climate change through their everyday actions. 

Many of us feel like we won’t win the fight against the climate crisis, especially when faced with the reality that just 100 companies have been the source of more than 70% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions since 1988. But Issacs says we must never underestimate how powerful we are as individuals.

Her mantra is simple: one small action at a time, multiplied by millions and millions, changes the system.

We have glorious power to act in our lives and rise above politics, because we cannot just wait for politicians and for governments to put in policies to fight climate change. We can’t wait! We have to get on with it! - Natlie Isaacs

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So yes, bringing a reusable coffee cup to your local cafe is purposeful. Choosing to walk, bike or take public transport is beneficial. Reducing the amount of meat you eat, avoiding items with excess packaging and buying vintage or pre-loved clothing really does go a long way when it comes to caring for our planet. 

According to Issacs, overconsumption is at the root of the environmental crisis. Signing a petition, marching in the streets and advocating for political and corporate action plays an important role, of course, but to see a seismic shift we must be willing to make changes to our own lifestyles. 

The simplest way to start is by joining Issacs and her movement of 1 million+ women. Spreading the word about this powerful project and the notion that “how you live matters” really can change the world. 

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