Why some people ARE acting to save the world

Skinner asked the question more than two decades ago- Why are we not acting to save the world? We have an amazing technology of learning and behavior and a science of solving socially significant problems and yet, problems persist.

But in a world where "we can't" and "it's impossible" or "this won't work" are more common than hope and optimism, some amazing humans have managed to overcome the typical contingencies to make a real and incredible difference. Humans are out there saving the world, right now, in your neighborhood. Some of them are famous. Most aren't.

Here are some examples to help you get inspired:
1. Bomb-sniffing rats have been trained to detect land mines and keep communities and children safe from getting blown up on the way to school
2. Animal trainers are working with humans and technology to change million-year-old migratory patterns of elephants to allow them to avoid countries in which poaching is legal
3. Genetic algorithms are being used to predict psychotic episodes with 100% accuracy within 6 months for adolescents at-risk for mental illness
4. Using targetted acoustical guidance, therapists can help individuals with severe self-injury and tantrum behavior to identify and change their own behavior without intrusive intervention or restraint.
5. Bees are being trained to detect and alert humans that they have cancer...even before imaging could do so!
6. With the use of a hashtag and a social media movement, the use of straws and therefore the accumulated plastic pollution in the ocean has been reduced. Even KFC has gotten on board.
7. BCBAs are promoting the use of least restrictive interventions and changing the way that we approach issues of "noncompliance" in schools and homes. It IS possible to address these concerns without the use of aversive conditioning or extinction procedures.
8. Virtual reality is being used to help people with disabilities understand how to ask for help when lost or confused in a community setting, allowing for increased integration and problem solving that isn't capable in more restrictive situations.
9. Robots are being trained to be resilient. They can solve problems, recruit help, and learn from each other. The potential is literally unlimited.
10. Insert your idea here.

Literally, insert your idea. It's possible. The technology is there. The understanding of human behavior, animal behavior, and integration is also there. We are living in a future of unlimited possibility. The time to act to save the world is now! Today is the day to address that socially significant problem and make a true difference.
I'll work to update each of the examples with relevant links, but until then be sure to check out the Convergence Conference, TagTeach, BehaviorMe, and TheDailyBA. Start here: https://tagteach.com/event-2850255