Service in Action

By Claudia Urbano, Rotary Service and Engagement staff

As we know, protecting the environment is one of Rotary’s areas of focus. This is an important issue that needs a collective effort, and clubs around the world are taking action. Their initiatives inspire individuals and communities to make a positive impact. By taking action, these clubs not only contribute to the well-being of the planet but also raise awareness and inspire others to join the cause. Whether it’s attending global conferences on climate change, organizing waste reduction campaigns, or uniting communities to protect water, these clubs play a vital role in shaping a greener, more sustainable future for all. Here are a few examples of how they are making a difference:

Turning Trash into Treasure

Imagine a workshop where hundreds of people from across the globe learn to transform waste into beautiful products. That’s exactly what happened at the Global Multidistrict Workshop on Upcycling for Monetary Benefits. Participants from India, Africa, and the US discovered innovative ways to create upcycled items from used cartons and discarded tires and sell them for profit. Workshop attendees learned valuable skills and formed a network to support each other as eco-entrepreneurs – a win-win for the planet and for their new business ventures!

Rotary Sessions at the United Nations Climate Change Conference

Environmental experts throughout Rotary hosted two dozen sessions at the 28th United Nations Climate Conference in Dubai, also known as COP28. The sessions addressed how the changing climate intersects with health, poverty, and other issues important to Rotary. Rotary International President R. Gordon R. McInally discussed how climate-linked disasters affect mental health. It was the third year that Rotary has taken part in the climate conference.

Empowering Youth to Fight Food Waste

A program called “Lunch Out of Landfills” combats school lunch waste by diverting 40-60% of landfill-bound materials through designated bins. Initiated in 2018 by Joe Richardson, a member of the Rotary Club of Southern Frederick County (Urbana), Maryland (USA), it has expanded to involve student leadership in waste management, food recovery for local food banks, and educational initiatives. By promoting composting, recycling, and responsible food practices, the program not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also empowers students to become environmentally conscious leaders and contribute to addressing climate change. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or starting a similar project, visit the Lunch Out of Landfills page on the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group website.

Uniting Communities for Water Protection

This year, be a part of history by participating in the World Water Minga, a global event inspired by the ancient Latin American tradition of community gatherings for a common cause. The goal? To raise awareness about watershed protection and set a Guinness World Record for water action. This multi-year project, backed by Rotary’s-UNEP Community Action for Fresh Water initiative, promises to be a powerful force for change. This year’s event is happening on 20-21 April.

These are just a few examples of how the Rotary community is making a difference to protect the environment. Feeling inspired? Take action and share your project with the world on Rotary Showcase. Together, we can build a cleaner, brighter future for generations to come.