Time for a change

D“DROP A PEBBLE in the ocean and you never know where the ripples will lead.” My mom told me that when I was a child, facing what seemed like an impossible task. I now realize it’s a well-worn saying, but I’m reminded of it when, as individuals, we feel compelled to make a meaningful difference on weighty societal issues. As an individual, it can feel overwhelming. But I was (and I suspect you were, too) part of a simple, difference-making surge about 30 years ago. It started with a blue box. Today’s recycling programs emerged from a pilot project in Kitchener, Ont., in 1981. Five years later, the endeavour went provincewide. It has evolved since, and while it isn’t perfect, it did change a societal norm. We no longer throw all our trash away. Canadian Geographic, along with Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Recycling Council of Ontario, is introducing a similar revolution. In early June we will launch 10,000 Changes, a campaign to reduce plastic use, production and waste. The program will explore the impacts of plastic and help Canadians make better choices about using it, with a particular emphasis on marine microplastics. (Check out explorer Joe Macinnis’s tribute to the planet’s marine systems on page 40 for a reinforcement of why that’s so important.) You can learn more about the program and make your own commitments to the cause at 10000changes.org. Help us drop some pebbles.

— Aaron Kylie