The three levers of individual power in a global climate crisis
In short: We often feel like small actors in a massive global crisis. However, Halla Tómasdóttir argues that meaningful change is achievable by mobilizing three specific personal levers: your voice, your vote, and your wallet. It is about moving from passive concern to active, multi-dimensional leadership.
Halla Tómasdóttir, who assumed the presidency of Iceland on August 1, 2024, advocates for a leadership model rooted in values and purpose. Leveraging her experience as an entrepreneur and business executive—notably her role as Iceland Chamber of Commerce's initial female CEO—she argues that leaders ought to foresee changes in gender and sustainability worldwide instead of merely overseeing current affairs. She co-founded Auður Capital during a period of financial crisis. Her career also included serving as the CEO of The B Team from 2018 to 2024. This global nonprofit focused on business driven by values.
Her approach to climate action is centered on the idea that the most difficult work of our lifetimes must occur within the next few years. To address this, she encourages individuals to catalyze change through three distinct channels. Using your 'voice' involves advocacy and sharing ideas; your 'vote' involves participating in governance to influence policy; and your 'wallet' involves using consumer power to support sustainable practices and values-driven business. She shared these insights following her attendance at the COP26 UN climate conference in Scotland. This gathering highlighted the urgent progress and remaining tasks for the planet.
Tómasdóttir’s perspective is informed by Iceland’s national context, where the country has navigated economic turbulence while building a reputation for renewable resources and gender equality. By focusing on participative governance and long-term thinking, she suggests that individuals can adopt a 'leadership' mindset. This means making courageous decisions that benefit both people and the planet, moving beyond individual lifestyle choices toward systemic influence in an interconnected age. Iceland is currently one of the few nations where most senior leadership roles are held by women. The country has also concentrated on its renewable resources to build a strong global reputation.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Use Your Voice, Vote and Wallet for Climate Action | Halla Tómasdóttir | TED
- Also: Leadership with Purpose: A Conversation with the President of...
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