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Learn the issues

Understand the problem, then be part of the solution

Clear, sourced explainers on four environmental challenges, each with practical steps you can take.

ClimatePlasticWaterBiodiversityMyths
Open book with a leaf
Thermometer and sun
Topic 1

Climate change

Burning coal, oil and gas releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. The result is a warmer planet with more extreme weather.

In Texas this shows up as more frequent extreme heat, longer droughts and heavier downpours when it does rain, which affects water supplies, agriculture and public health.

Key facts

  • Earth's surface has warmed about 1.1°C since 1850–1900 (IPCC AR6).
  • Transportation and electricity are the two largest sources of US greenhouse gas emissions (US EPA).
  • Every fraction of a degree of additional warming increases the risks.

What you can do

  • Walk, bike, carpool or use transit for short trips.
  • Lower home energy use: LED bulbs, smart thermostat settings, unplug idle devices.
  • Ask your electricity provider about renewable energy plans.
Plastic bottle in ocean waves
Topic 2

Plastic pollution

Plastic is useful and durable, which is exactly the problem: most plastic ever made still exists in some form. Much of it ends up in landfills, burned, or leaking into rivers and oceans.

Over time plastic breaks into tiny microplastics that have been found in soil, drinking water, seafood and even the air.

Key facts

  • Only about 9% of plastic waste is recycled worldwide (OECD, 2022).
  • Single-use packaging is one of the largest sources of plastic waste.
  • Litter on streets washes into storm drains and then into creeks and rivers.

What you can do

  • Carry a reusable bottle, bag and coffee cup.
  • Choose products with less packaging or refill options.
  • Recycle correctly: clean, dry and no plastic bags in curbside bins.
Water droplet
Topic 3

Clean water

Only a small fraction of Earth's water is fresh and accessible. Growing populations, drought and pollution all put pressure on the rivers and aquifers we rely on.

Rainwater carries fertilizer, oil and litter from lawns and streets straight into local creeks, which harms fish and wildlife downstream.

Key facts

  • About 2.5% of Earth's water is freshwater, and most of that is frozen or underground (USGS).
  • Outdoor watering can make up a large share of household water use in hot, dry summers.
  • Storm drains usually flow to creeks without any treatment.

What you can do

  • Water lawns early in the morning and only when needed.
  • Fix leaky faucets and toilets; they waste water around the clock.
  • Never pour oil, paint or chemicals down storm drains.
Trees and a bird
Topic 4

Biodiversity

Biodiversity is the variety of life: plants, animals, fungi and the ecosystems they form. It provides food, clean air and water, pollination and natural flood control.

Habitat loss, pollution, invasive species and climate change are reducing populations of many species, including the bees and butterflies that pollinate our crops.

Key facts

  • Around 1 million species are threatened with extinction (IPBES, 2019).
  • Changes in land and sea use are the largest driver of nature loss.
  • Native plants support far more local insects and birds than ornamental imports.

What you can do

  • Plant native, pollinator-friendly flowers in a yard or balcony pot.
  • Reduce pesticide use and leave some leaves for overwintering insects.
  • Support local parks and conservation groups with time or donations.
Myth vs. fact

Common misconceptions

Tap a question to see the answer.

Further reading

Sources

IPCC AR6 Synthesis Report

The scientific consensus on climate change.

ipcc.ch ↗

IPBES Global Assessment

The state of biodiversity and ecosystems worldwide.

ipbes.net ↗

US EPA: Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Where US emissions come from, by sector.

epa.gov ↗
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