When we talk about climate, we’re thinking far beyond today’s sunny skies or a surprise snowstorm. Climate refers to the long-term weather patterns measured across decades, or even centuries! And right now, it’s shifting incredibly fast. Human activities are currently driving those pattern shifts, raising the temperatures and causing the storms to surge.
Thankfully, we are in the midst of the information age. We have so much information at our fingertips and choices in our hands. The opportunity to make a difference starts in our communities and on our campuses.
(PS: Want to go deeper? Don’t miss our Climate Change Subject Guide packed with books, articles, and web sources.)
So, how can you start making an impact this summer?
Track Your Energy Use:
Knowledge is power, in this case, literally. Logging into your energy provider’s website or taking a closer look at your monthly bill to see how much energy you’re using and where it can reveal patterns you might not have noticed. From there, simple shifts like air-drying clothes, unplugging devices, or setting reminders to turn off lights can make a real difference. Think of it as building a habit of conservation, one small choice at a time.
Put your money where your mouth is:
Every purchase we make impacts the planet. Every dollar we spend is a vote for the kind of world we want to live in. By supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability, responsible resource use, and transparent practices, we can align our spending with our values. If you’re looking for ideas or want to explore alternatives, EcoSwap is "The Comparison Hub for Eco-Conscious Consumers," where you can find sustainable alternatives to everyday items at the best possible prices.
Eat Seasonal and Local:
Summer is the perfect time to hit up local farmers’ markets! They're a great place to find fresh fruits and vegetables that don't have to travel far to reach your plate. Bonus points because fruits and veggies take far less resources to produce than dairy and meat. Good for the planet, and good for you too!
Get Involved:
Change doesn't happen in isolation. Climate action thrives in community. Whether you join a local environmental group, support sustainability initiatives, or simply start conversations with friends and family, your voice matters more than you know.
Zooming Out: The Big Picture
From their unique vantage point in space, NASA scientists have been collecting decades of critical data on our changing planet. Their research confirms what we’re seeing on the ground — and it empowers us to take action. Every informed choice, no matter how small, moves us closer to a healthier future.
If you are looking for even more ways to get involved, the United Nations Climate Action page for even more ways to make an impact starting today.
The world is changing — but together, we can change it for the better.
Did you know that the South College Library provides students, faculty, and staff access to over 100,000 eBooks? Whether you're looking for academic resources, fresh ideas for your garden or kitchen, or a captivating novel to read in the sunshine, our collection has something for everyone. This May, we’re spotlighting a mix of stories and seasonal reads perfect for the warmer days ahead. You can find our monthly eBook displays on campus TV screens—take a look and find your next favorite!
Flower Production and Gardening by P.K. Yadav;R.P.Singh
Start your summer surrounded by blooms! This comprehensive guide to floriculture covers everything from commercial flower growing to garden design. With clear, accessible information and practical insights, it’s perfect for students, hobbyists, and anyone dreaming of cultivating beauty this season.
Beyond Forever : We’ll Meet Again by Diane Dowsing Robison
Travel through time in this sweeping, soulful romance that follows two lovers across four lifetimes—from the beaches of Barbados to the chaos of WWII and into the new millennium. It’s a perfect summer read about enduring love, emotional growth, and the lessons we carry with us through time.
Drink in the Summer : A Memoir of Croatia by Tony Fabijančić
Let this reflective travel memoir transport you to the sun-drenched Adriatic coast. Fabijancic beautifully captures the tension between memory and change, and the pull of both family history and freedom. A perfect companion for readers craving a thoughtful escape.
Mon Dieu, Love : A Novella by Jane V. Blunschi
Set in steamy Baton Rouge, this darkly funny, emotionally sharp novella follows two sisters navigating heartbreak, love, and complicated personal growth. Packed with humor, drama, and unexpected warmth, it’s a bold summer pick with bite and heart.
Uplake : Restless Essays of Coming and Going by Ana Maria Spagna
These lyrical essays capture the spirit of summer exploration—from hikes and open-water swims to encounters with nature and inner restlessness. Spagna’s reflections remind us to appreciate where we are while still imagining where we might go next.
The New Southern Garden Cookbook : Enjoying the Best From Homegrown Gardens, Farmers' Markets, Roadside Stands, and CSA Farm Boxes by Sheri Castle
Celebrate the flavors of the season with over 300 recipes that make the most of fresh, local produce. Whether you're cooking from your own garden, a CSA box, or a farmers' market haul, this cookbook offers Southern-inspired dishes perfect for summer gatherings, weeknight meals, and everything in between.
Find these and more through the South College Library's digital collection—where summer stories, seasonal recipes, and sunny-day reads are just a click away!