Five participants in a Generation Climate program convened by The New York Times gave us their thoughts on the issues, why they became involved and what steps make a difference.
When Vanessa Nakate, 24, was cropped out of a wire photo featuring her and four white activists, it drew attention that she now uses to expand her work in Uganda and beyond.
Unless you're a scientist or policy wonk, figuring out who's actually making a difference can feel like an impossible task. A good place to start would be Founders Pledge, but that's just the beginning.