Fighting big gas: how one community's fight could shape the future of New England.

• Jurisdiction: United States
• Date: 22 June 2017

Jason and Erin Olkowski never saw themselves as activists and community organizers. They were aware of climate concerns, of course, but had never stood on the frontlines of the climate battle themselves.

That all changed when Invenergy came to their small Rhode Island town, with its plans to build a massive new natural gas plant next door to family homes and within a pristine conservation area.

The company tried to use slick PR tactics to persuade residents that its new power plant would benefit them, but the Olkowskis weren't convinced. The idea of their peaceful New England town being overtaken by the crash and hum and belting pollution of a large-scale power plant was disturbing enough in itself.

But their personal mission to protect their hometown soon grew into a broader understanding of what it takes to fight back against pollution, poor energy choices, and climate change.

Their takeaway: Fighting climate change starts at home, with community education and local battles like this one.

"Climate change is a macro issue, but needs to be fought at the micro level," says Jason. "It really can be won and lost locally."

It's also a battle that's easier waged with help. "Fighting against the system takes organizations like CLF to work at...