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Latest News
Becoming a “Solar Seeder”: How You Can Spark a Clean Energy Movement Even Without a Rooftop
By Laura Iyer When it comes to climate solutions, solar power often shines as a beacon of hope. It’s clean, increasingly the most affordable form of energy, and powerful enough to fuel entire communities. But here’s a lesser-known truth: installing solar panels doesn’t just help the environment—it plants seeds. This ripple effect is known as the “solar seeding” phenomenon, or more technically, the social diffusion effect. Research shows that when someone sees solar panels on a neighbour’s home or a nearby school, they are significantly more likely to consider going solar themselves. One installation often leads to another—and another. Solar spreads like a good idea catching on. That’s why the Million Solar Panel Challenge (MSPC) is so important. Through this global ESRAG initiative, we’re not just counting kilowatts; we’re counting conversations, connections, and visible proof that change is happening. Every solar panel logged becomes a symbol of possibility, showing Rotarians and...
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Climate Change, Finance and Rotarians
by Larry Hands and Karen Kendrick-Hands reporting from the UK How Carbon Fees Can Drive Climate Change Solutions Even as we celebrate the fact that the UK is no longer relying on coal to generate electricity, the nostalgia for coal here is alive and well. We...
Rotary’s Solar-Powered Path Forward
by Laurie Zuckerman Solar-powered revolution The storm hit, and the power went out. I wondered, Will it be restored before nightfall? My husband's medical equipment depends on electricity to help him breathe while he sleeps. Fortunately, we’re lucky enough to have...
The Power of ESRAG and EARTHSHOT Partnership
By Martina Lastikova I have witnessed the impact Rotary International can have in tackling global challenges. Through strong partnerships such as those with the Gates Foundation and WHO, our strengths lie in using our social capital to make things happen. It wasn’t...
Proud to support ESRAG
by Laurie Zuckerman Some people have asked me, "What do I get in return for my ESRAG membership fee?" Joining ESRAG is different from joining a gym or country club. You're not paying for access to facilities like a golf course or pool. Instead, it’s like supporting...
Driving Environmental Action: A Conversation with Karen Kendrick-Hands
In this episode of the ESRAG Podcast, Karen Kendrick-Hands, co-founder of ESRAG, delves into the history and mission of the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG). She discusses how Rotary clubs are uniquely positioned to lead grassroots...
What Qualities Do You Admire in a Leader? Insights from ESRAG Members
From ESRAG Members. Consolidated by Laurie Zuckerman At ESRAG, we’re surrounded by passionate and thoughtful individuals who understand that leadership is much more than a title. So, we asked our members: What qualities do you admire most in a leader? The response...
Transforming Food Systems Through Sustainable Finance
By Pramod Kumar Panda The global food system (GFS), currently dominated by a top-down industrial model, is fraught with serious risks that threaten the health of both people and the planet. While this system can scale up production massively, it has failed to resolve...
Save the Flavors: Climate Basecamp’s Innovative approach to climate awareness
by Rob Sisson, ESRAG Great Britain & Ireland Chapter Climate change isn't just an abstract concept or distant threat—it's impacting our daily lives, including our favorite foods. Climate Basecamp, a new science communication initiative, is raising awareness with...
Reviving Hope, One Palm at a Time: The Story of South India’s Palmyra Revival
By Prof. Jeni Padua, PhD, Director, ESRAG South Asia Chapter In the heart of South India, a quiet yet powerful movement is taking root—an inspiring mission to revive the endangered Palmyra Palm. Once a cornerstone of the region’s ecosystem and culture, this towering...
Small Steps, Big Impact: How Plant-Rich Diets and Rotary Can Drive Environmental Change
By: Joan Gagnon Plant- Rich Diet Task Force On September 9, I had the pleasure of speaking to my fellow Foxboro Rotary Club members about something close to my heart: ESRAG, the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group. I joined ESRAG in January 2024, and from...
Exploring Innovative Solutions for Environmental Challenges with Laurie Zuckerman
In the premiere episode of ESRAG’s podcast series, Laurie Zuckerman, a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, shares her insights on the role of community engagement in addressing pressing ecological issues. The conversation highlights how grassroots...
Ariel, the Catalyst for Eco-Action
By Laurie Zuckerman Becoming Catalysts for Positive Environmental Change Together If you have ever been interviewed by Ariel Miller or know someone who has, then you know what a magical experience it is. She genuinely understands and is interested in your work and you...
ESRAG Podcast: Climate Conversations
Welcome to the ESRAG Podcast, your go-to source for all things related to the Environment and Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG). Join us as we explore innovative solutions, inspiring stories, and actionable insights from Rotarians and experts dedicated to creating a sustainable future. Each episode delves into topics such as climate change, renewable energy, biodiversity, and community-driven environmental initiatives. Whether you’re a seasoned environmental advocate or new to the field, our podcast offers valuable information and motivation to help you make a positive impact. Tune in and be part of the global movement for a greener, healthier planet with ESRAG.
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