Five ways you can help wildlife today

Dear folks, Climate change is a crisis of massive proportions, so when news broke about the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement, those of us who love wildlife were devastated. Wildlife and their habitat is at risk due to climate change. But Defenders wants you to know that there are things you can do every day to show you stand with wildlife. Here are five simple ways that you can make a real and lasting impact on the wildlife and wild places you love: Take a stand. In the past few years, it seems like we’ve finally started to gain momentum in the fight against climate change. One administration does not have the power to stop our movement. Pledge to do your part to work towards the goals of the Paris Agreement and encourage your friends to do the same by telling them #IAmStillIn! Garden for green. Butterflies, bees and other pollinators face serious challenges as the climate warms. The flowers and other plants they rely on for food may bloom at new times of year or may disappear entirely from a region, which can wreak havoc on pollinator migration patterns and life cycles. Research the native plants that grow in your area and plant a pollinator garden to help provide habitat to these important critters. Energize your efforts. Switching to 100% clean, renewable energy from wind and solar is one of the best ways to combat climate change. Power your home or office with sustainably sourced electricity. Don’t live in a state where you can pick your energy supplier? Contact your state legislators and tell them you support retail energy choice to provide consumers with the right to shop for clean energy. Do you really need that new gadget? Buying new things can be fun, but every time you get a new phone or the latest pair of shoes, remember all the energy and natural resources that are used in its production. Before you click 'buy', decide if the item you're looking at is something you'll really get good use out of. Better yet, hit up your local thrift store and buy used, or find a similar product that's made from recycled materials. Share the love. Wildlife and wild places need our protection if they’re going to thrive, and the Endangered Species Act is our best tool to make sure that happens. Did you know that this incredible law has been successful at preventing 99% of listed species from going extinct? Watch our new video to learn more – and then share it with all of your friends! Thank you for your passion, your commitment and your help. Sincerely, Jamie Rappaport Clark President, Defenders of Wildlife

Defenders of Wildlife leads the pack when it comes to protecting wild animals and plants in their natural communities

Defenders of Wildlife | 1130 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036 | defenders.org Defenders of Wildlife is a national, nonprofit membership organization dedicated to the protection of all native wild animals and plants in their natural communities. Photo Credits: ©Michelle Schmidt | ©Geoff Hall | ©Diana LeVasseur | ©Taylor McDowell © Copyright 2017 Defenders of Wildlife