I believe it is mandatory for everyone to recycle and take action against climate change because the consequences and current state of our environment is alarming. Landfills are overflowing with waste, plastic and other harmful chemicals that are polluting our oceans. Our carbon footprint is higher than ever. If we keep putting these issues to the side or having the mentality that it's not as important as other problems, then future generations will be in a world where there are severe resource shortages, horrible natural disasters, and unclean air/water. I also think it is important for other countries to work together and contribute to sustainability because they have the power to enforce laws that will protect the environment such as conserving as much land as possible for green areas, creating waste reduction/recycling programs, etc. Although these are important, individuals are also a major contributor to climate change and global warming. For example, we need people who are committed to making environmentally-friendly choices because this will help us significantly in the long run. Building a sustainable future requires everyone to make an effort. By making recycling a requirement rather than something that's optional, we can make outstanding progress and reverse/limit the damage that has been done. Protecting the environment is not just a responsibility of the government or people with a higher status, it is a duty shared by everyone and all over. If we act now, we can contribute to a greater, healthier, and livable Earth.