EP 45: Nature-based solutions, local climate activism, and why we feel optimistic for the future of sustainability with Lara Birkes

In this episode, we talk to Lara Birkes. In addition to her role as the Head of Sustainability, Partnerships, and Social Impact at Sonder, she is deeply involved in conservation and climate change issues in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

This episode covers:

🌎 What it's like to lead sustainability with a small team at a newly public company

🌎 How Lara’s experience living in rural Montana has shifted her perspective on climate work

🌎 Tips for people who want to get involved in climate activism in their communities

🌎 Why you should vote

🌎 What nature-based solutions are, and why they’re such an exciting opportunity for innovation

🌎 Career advice for those who want to get into the sustainability field

You can learn more about Lara below:

LinkedIn

And here’s Lara’s advice for how you can engage in local politics and support community nonprofits:

• Run for office.
• Support those running for office with a pro-climate agenda (city, county, planning board, mayor - you name it.)
• Meet with your representatives, understand their positions, and offer alternative solutions/perspectives if you disagree on a climate-positive future.
• Take the time to understand key environmental issues in your community, where the tensions lie, and help those serving as thoughtful agents of change.
• Support local journalism offering fact-based analysis.
• Register to vote. Vote. And take people to the polls!
• Seek out the local nonprofits engaged in grassroots climate & environmental advocacy. Oftentimes national/international NGOs don't have the credibility in communities that locally run, grassroots organizations do. A nuanced understanding is needed!

For anyone interested in the work Lara does in her community of Livingston, Montana here are resources:

Park County Environmental Council

Western Sustainability Exchange

Park County Community Foundation.

Ready to spend more time together? Check out the spaces below where my community hangs out:

Winter Workshops

Monthly Meditation
Instagram
LinkedIn