The most recent report from the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) states “urgent and unprecedented” changes are needed within the next 12 years to limit the most severe risks from climate change.

While the challenge is high, the future is hopeful. Louisville has taken many important steps to do its part. The Sustain Louisville initiative, as just one example, set 17 city-wide climate goals in six categories: energy, environment, transportation, economy, community and engagement. And Louisville’s Mayor Greg Fischer has led the way by signing the Global Covenant of Mayors, pledging citywide goals to address climate change.

But you don’t have to be a Mayor to make change happen. Every citizen can contribute in some way to make Louisville a more sustainable place to live and meet its climate goals. We encourage you to join us for the Louisville Earth Walk, which returns to Iroquois Park for its third year on Saturday, April 20, 2019. Everyone is invited to join in the celebration as we walk in support of a citywide vision where everyone has safe and clean water, air and soil. And when you come to participate in this 5k walk, or enlist a team of walkers, you will also be showing your support for dozens of local nonprofit organizations that work to protect the planet.

Becoming involved is easy by registering for the walk, and then using the MightyCause peer to peer fundraising tool, to help raise funds to promote a vision of a healthy, sustainable city!

And if you are looking for more tips to reduce your own carbon footprint, Earth Walk organizing partners will be on hand to provide information and tools that support the steps you can take, such as this Key Steps Guide for Climate Action.

We hope to see you on Saturday, April 20^th!