Marathon Not a Sprint: The Value of Ongoing Climate Action

With climate headlines constantly competing for our attention, it's easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure about where to start. The key is to take the long view, with the understanding that progress doesn’t come from one-off posts or momentary fundraisers. It grows from people who commit to climate action together, over time. 

Reframe action against climate change as a marathon rather than a sprint. Engage with existing global or grassroots campaigns, sign up with activism groups, and attend dedicated events—there are already plenty out there that are driving real change.

Transform Inspiration into Meaningful Action Progress is built over time. It transforms from an inspiring idea or concrete agenda into something much bigger and better. International events like the UN COP Conference do a great job of raising awareness yet they don’t happen overnight. 

They do, however, generate media buzz and spark important conversations, and to make that energy last, we need consistent follow-up. When individuals and teams regularly share updates, circulate resources, and write about what they’ve learned, they help to keep climate action at the top of people’s minds. Businesses do play a powerful role here too. By adopting sustainable practices and encouraging employee involvement, they lead by example and inspire others to follow. Beyond impact reports and monitoring programs, companies can spotlight the people behind the progress. MPB, a global platform for used photo and video gear, did just that by interviewing photographer Ragnar Axelsson about his climate-focused work.

Channel Commitment into Long-term Plans It’s not enough to set sustainability goals or support recycling and net-zero plans—we have to stick with them. While many organizations deserve credit for stepping up, their climate commitments need lasting support. For instance, although half of U.S. corporations have pledged to meet net-zero targets, sustaining those efforts over time remains the real challenge.  That’s why businesses that treat environmental responsibility as a core value stand out. They show how climate action shapes decisions, budgets, and strategies year after year. Their commitment—and their partnerships—create a ripple effect, sparking new initiatives and long-term plans.

Like the circular economy an organization commits to, sustainable efforts must be perpetual. Some companies are leading the way by launching internal carbon pricing systems, sustainability education programs, and volunteer opportunities. These efforts give people the tools to make an impact both at work and in their everyday lives.

Empower Individuals to Achieve Real Progress When enough individuals take small steps together, they create real environmental change. That’s why collective campaigns are so powerful—they provide structure, community, and a sense of purpose, even for people with full schedules who volunteer in their spare time.

Take the U.S. Plastics Pact, for example. What started as a small initiative has grown into a global movement. Participants use the Post Consumer Recycled Content (PCR) Toolkit and a roadmap toward circularity to take practical, accessible steps within a supportive network. Similarly, Project Drawdown connects everyday choices with scientifically backed climate solutions, helping people see how their actions contribute to the bigger picture.

Harness Tech to Record Progress Over Time Digital tools make it easier than ever to understand and improve our climate impact. Many mobile apps now track personal data through carbon footprint calculators, highlighting areas for improvement and tracking progress over time.

The Earth Hero app, for instance, recommends personalized climate actions based on your lifestyle. It also brings in a social element—users can compare progress with friends, join community challenges, and celebrate shared wins. Social media adds another instant layer of impact. It’s a powerful tool for sharing real-time stories, statistics, and visuals that make the climate crisis feel urgent and immediate. These platforms help spread awareness at both grassroots and global levels—and offer an easy entry point for people keen to get involved who aren’t already.

For businesses, online platforms offer robust ways to measure emissions, report progress, and engage employees in ongoing sustainability efforts. Paired with partnerships and a shared sense of responsibility, these tools help turn ambitious goals into real, lasting change.

Act Now for Long-Lasting Change Lasting change comes from collective accountability and steady improvement. Effective climate action blends quick, everyday decisions with deeper long-term shifts that reshape systems and lifestyles. Here are a few simple ways to start, then expand from there to find ways to influence others on a broader scale.

• Financial choices: Support sustainable businesses or donate to solutions that drive real impact. • Transportation: Walk, bike, take public transit, or drive electric—it cuts emissions and often boosts well-being. • Energy: Install solar panels, upgrade insulation, or switch to renewable energy providers to make a long-term difference. • Shopping habits: Repair, reuse, and buy thoughtfully to reduce waste and conserve resources. • Diet: Cutting back on meat, especially beef, significantly lowers your carbon footprint while supporting sustainable agriculture.

Climate action doesn’t have to be a moment. It can be a movement—steady, shared, and sustained. Whether you are volunteering, using climate apps, adopting sustainable habits, or leading change at work or in your part of the world, your efforts matter. Today’s awareness can fuel tomorrow’s solutions—and you don’t have to do it alone.

For ideas and suggestions on specific measures you can take, please see our Actions section. Also, many of our Articles provide ideas for actions, and for organizations that can use your help!