‘Am I Too Old to Save the Planet?’
A Boomer’s Guide to Climate Action
From his career to his commitments upon retirement, Lawrence MacDonald has devoted himself to understand science-based solutions to worldwide problems, including climate change. He addresses the idea of climate action for boomers in his book, “Am I Too Old to Save the Planet? A Boomer’s Guide to Climate Action.”
Baby boomers came of age alongside environmentalism, when transformational events encouraged environmental protections to shield the health and safety of people and Mother Nature.
Before we were adults, economic growth had superseded other concerns: automobile use, factory production, and consumerism ushered in problems such as smog, water pollution, pesticide use, and more. Many of us read Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring,” we knew of the Cuyahoga River fire, falling bald eagle population, and other calamities. Environmental regulations helped turn the tide on many of these problems.
Boomers saw the first Earth Day on April 22, 1970. As Earth Day founder and politician Gaylord Nelson said, “The ultimate test of man’s conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard.”
Sadly, the slackening of these same regulations and the continued emphasis on economics and consumerism threaten to further damage nature and the living things – people included – who depend upon it. Climate change, now a primary focus, is no longer a future concern but a present reality, with rising global temperatures contributing to more frequent and severe heat waves, flooding, droughts, and other extreme weather events, melting glaciers and rising sea levels, and even health risks from wildfires, heat waves, and more.
The future looks bleak for the younger generations. Whether these are our children and grandchildren or we simply care about people beyond our own worlds, can we help to change the tide? Did we have a hand in causing the problem? Are we too old, too powerless, with too few years left to work for positive change?
In support of climate action for boomers
Lawrence MacDonald addresses such questions and solutions in his book, “Am I Too Old to Save the Planet?” He offers a practical look at the role older adults can play in addressing climate change and environmental challenges. Rather than dwelling on doom-and-gloom predictions, MacDonald focuses on empowerment, reminding readers that experience, wisdom, and accumulated resources can make older generations powerful agents of change.
The book succeeds because it approaches a complex topic with optimism and accessibility. MacDonald acknowledges the scale of the environmental crisis but avoids overwhelming readers with guilt or technical jargon. Instead, he offers concrete examples of how individuals can make a difference through everyday choices, civic engagement, philanthropy, and community involvement.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its challenge to the notion that environmental activism belongs only to the young. MacDonald makes a compelling case that retirees and older adults have unique advantages: time, perspective, networks, and often financial resources that can be directed toward meaningful action. His message is both encouraging and respectful, recognizing the contributions older generations have already made while inviting them to continue shaping the future.
Readers will come away with a renewed sense of purpose and a better understanding of how personal actions can connect to larger environmental goals. Whether you’re already passionate about sustainability or simply curious about how you can contribute, “Am I Too Old to Save the Planet?” offers valuable insights and practical ideas.
Ultimately, this is a hopeful book about legacy, celebrating the possibilities of climate action for boomers. MacDonald reminds us that caring for the planet isn’t just about protecting future generations – it’s also about remaining engaged, relevant, and impactful at every stage of life. For readers who want to make a difference without feeling overwhelmed, “Am I Too Old to Save the Planet?” is both motivating and reassuring.
‘Am I Too Old to Save the Planet?’ by Lawrence MacDonald
Changemakers Books, October 2023
