Anyone who aspires to be an environmentalist should have a strong interest in and passion for the natural world. This can be as simple as a desire to go hiking, camping, or participate in other outdoor activities. Getting a background in environmental science and working to develop new ways to help protect the environment could also be an option. The path you take will be influenced by the type of environmentalist you want to be.
Any form of outdoor recreation provides an opportunity to learn more about the world around you and share that knowledge with others. If you enjoy camping or hiking, for example, you might start looking for more eco-friendly ways to do certain things while you’re doing these activities; you might then look for more eco-friendly ways to do everyday things like conserving water or turning off the lights. Even taking these simple steps can help you become an environmentalist.
You could, on the other hand, choose to work as an environmentalist and pursue a career in research, conservation, or education. Any of these fields will necessitate a degree in a related field as well as scientific aptitude. Another option for becoming a professional environmentalist is to work as a political activist or lobbyist, attempting to influence positive change through new environmental laws and policies.
There are other ways to become an environmentalist if you own land. One way to truly make a difference is to place a conservation easement on a piece of land, ensuring that it will be protected from development in perpetuity. Of course, even if you don’t own land, you can still become a land steward. For example, if you have a particular set of environmental knowledge, such as the ability to identify many different types of plants or animals, you could volunteer for clean-up days or share your knowledge with others on nature walks.
These are just a few options for becoming an environmentalist without turning it into a career. There are numerous environmental careers available, ranging from research and consulting to land conservation and education, all of which allow you to pursue your passion for the environment as a career. In general, whether you choose to make a career out of it or not, becoming an environmentalist will become an inextricable part of your life, and you will be constantly looking for new ways to act in a more environmentally friendly, sustainable manner, and to encourage others to do the same.