Climate

Third Act is an environmental advocacy group for Americans over 60, founded by Bill McKibben in 2021. It harnesses the experience of seniors to tackle environmental issues. In Texas, Third Act focuses on lobbying for legislation supporting renewable energy and opposing coal plant pollution, while collaborating with groups like the Sierra Club.

Katharine Hayhoe, a Texas-based atmospheric scientist, urges those worried about climate change and energy transition to avoid despair. Despite election disappointments, she emphasizes hope, collaboration, and realism in addressing climate issues, and draws inspiration from her faith to maintain a positive and empowered mindset.

Ballot initiatives on climate policies had varied successes across the U.S., with significant wins in several states, while state legislative races showed mixed results for future climate action. Key measures passed included Washington’s rejection of a climate law repeal, California’s approval of a climate resilience bond, and initiatives in Hawaii, Louisiana, and Honolulu supporting climate funds.

Frigid weather in Texas caused industrial facilities to release over a million pounds of air pollution due to machinery failures and power outages. This highlights a regulatory loophole that allows companies to exceed emissions limits during weather-induced upsets, prompting calls for stricter enforcement.

The 6th annual Climate Crisis Art Exhibit in Waco, hosted by Waco Friends of the Climate, showcased over 100 artworks from Texas artists, judged on climate relevance, artistic excellence, and originality. Winners are displayed online; Judi Simon received first place with a $1,000 prize.

In March 2023, Dallas launched two initiatives to boost climate resilience: Whole Home Dallas connects residents to resources for weatherization and energy efficiency; Green Job Skills offers free, self-paced training for construction workers in energy-efficient home improvements. Both programs support the city's climate action goals.

Waco Friends of the Climate's Climate Crisis Art Exhibit returns in person to promote climate change awareness through art. Held at Art Center Waco from April 4-29, the exhibit invites Texas artists to inspire emotional engagement and action on climate change, offering cash prizes. Submissions close April 1.

Dallas City Council's 2022-2023 budget allocates an additional $2.5 million to environmental initiatives. This funds staff for environmental justice, air quality, and brownfield programs, supports solar panel installations, and launches the weatherization pilot for low-income residents. It strengthens Dallas’ commitment to sustainability and climate goals.

The Dallas-based Climate Book Club, associated with Citizens’ Climate Lobby, has expanded due to a focus on hope, inspiring a Fort Worth club and hosting advocacy events. Despite initial COVID-19 challenges, the club continues to thrive, promoting environmental awareness and offering members educational, camaraderie, and hopeful experiences.

A Texas A&M study predicts warmer weather, more wildfires, urban flooding, and intensified hurricanes in Texas by 2036 due to climate change. Despite some positive aspects, such as stable river flooding, the study emphasizes the need for climate resilience initiatives, which face political challenges in the state.