Take action
Be a change agent for a thriving future
Each of us has the ability to drive positive impact in our world and help shape a thriving future for all of Earth’s inhabitants. Whether you’re passionate about advancing policy, eager to engage with thought leaders or interested in staying informed through the latest research and updates, there are opportunities to make an impact.
How you can make an impact
Four steps you can take to make a difference:
1. Be informed
In a world full of information, knowing what to trust and share responsibly is crucial. Being an informed consumer of news and information is a vital step in becoming a powerful agent of change. Here’s how to ensure the information you take in and share is accurate:
- Verify with multiple sources: Confirm information with at least two trusted sources, such as reputable newspapers, peer-reviewed papers and data-based research studies.
- Seek diverse perspectives: Learn from a variety of reputable outlets, even those that challenge your views or address unfamiliar issues.
- Identify the source: Question information from unidentified or unrecognized sources and confirm if the person or organization providing the information is being factual.
For the latest in global sustainability research, news and learning opportunities, receive the Global Futures Laboratory monthly newsletter, “Global Futures: Now,” and our bi-annual publication, “Futurecast.”
2. Get engaged
Sustainable change starts with being informed and proactive. Consider how you can contribute to crucial policy and economic discussions and initiatives that drive sustainable practices and innovation. Actions that you can take include:
- Register to vote.
- Engage with business leaders through local chambers of commerce or public shareholder meetings.
- Ask questions. Your voice and expertise can help shape the policies that will protect our planet and communities for generations to come.
To learn more about some of the latest policy issues and discussions, check out ISSUES in Science and Technology, a quarterly journal published by the National Academy of Sciences and ASU.
3. Participate
By attending events and getting involved, you not only gain valuable insights but also contribute your voice to a vibrant community committed to global change. Some of the the ways you can be present and giving of your time are:
- Municipal and regional meetings and workshops. Stay informed about local decisions and express your views.
- Volunteer. Support organizations that align with your passions by offering your time and energy.
- ASU Global Futures events. Our events are dynamic forums where ideas take flight and connections are forged. From seminars and panel discussions to interactive workshops and conferences, these gatherings offer the chance to learn from and network with leading experts, researchers and innovators in sustainability. Check our events calendar and join us in person or virtually to be at the forefront of sustainability discourse.
- Nominate an innovation. The search for the winners of The Earthshot Prize 2025 has begun and Global Futures Laboratory at Arizona State University is proud to be an Official Nominator. The Earthshot Prize is a global prize and platform for impact that was designed to find and grow the solutions that will repair our planet this decade. If you have a solution that is inspiring, inclusive, and impactful, please complete this form.
4. Advance your knowledge
Take a step to become an agent of change by earning a degree or certification from ASU’s College of Global Futures. Whether you’re starting your education, advancing in your field or seeking executive training, we offer programs in sustainability, responsible innovation, global complexity, ocean sciences and more to shape our planetary health now and far into the future.
Together, we can transform our world. Whether through policy engagement, event participation or staying informed, your involvement with the ASU Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory® helps drive the change we need for a sustainable future.
Join the conversation
Futurecast
Global Futures: Futurecast offers a look into our prospective futures through the eyes of the extensive Global Futures Scientists and Scholars Network. Explore what might come in the seconds, days and years ahead by subscribing.
Our latest issue talks about how we can draw inspiration from the patterns in nature to implement strategic decisions in our built world.