Suzanne Heron's Revelation: Connecting Climate Change and Women’s Empowerment
Suzanne Heron’s journey into understanding the intricate connection between climate change and the well-being of women and girls began with an unexpected discovery. While reading "Drawdown," a comprehensive guide to reversing global warming, Suzanne stumbled upon a section titled ‘Educating Girls’. This moment was an epiphany for her. "This is exactly what Soroptimist does," she thought, realizing the powerful intersection between her organization’s mission and the global climate crisis.
Living on Lasqueti Island, Suzanne is surrounded by a community dedicated to environmental sustainability. The island’s motto, “live lightly on the land,” deeply resonates with her. Lasqueti Island is unique with its passenger-only ferry and independence from British Columbia’s hydro system. This blend of self-reliance and communal support has further fueled Suzanne’s passion for environmental issues.
Suzanne’s engagement with climate action is not just rooted in her personal life but also in her professional experiences. She was profoundly influenced by a Soroptimist conference, where she saw firsthand the potential for integrating climate action into the organization’s mission. “It’s a win for girls, a win for Soroptimist, and a win for the planet,” she explains.
Women and girls are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, making it crucial for Soroptimist to focus its efforts on this issue. Educated women and girls are more resilient and better equipped to handle the challenges posed by climate change. This resilience is not limited to developing countries but is also critical in developed nations, where women’s decision-making roles in households can significantly influence sustainability practices.
Suzanne envisions a future where Soroptimist’s "Dream It, Be It" initiative incorporates climate action, potentially in collaboration with other women-focused organizations. This integration would empower women and girls to make informed choices that positively impact the environment and their communities.
Suzanne offers practical tips for making a difference in everyday life:
Education on climate issues.
Plant trees.
Avoid using clothes dryers.
Conserve water.
Use QR codes instead of printed materials.
Opt for water jugs over plastic water bottles.
Suzanne Heron’s story is a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of climate action and women’s empowerment. Her commitment to integrating these vital issues into Soroptimist’s mission highlights the transformative potential of informed and engaged women in the fight against climate change.