Another post already has an excellent list.

https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=49662025

I do all those and more. For example (relevant to your analogy), I speak with the people around me (never preachy, that’s no way to change someone’s mind) about why I do what I do, and adjust myself to be reasonable to the situation. It has instilled change in others, who in turn change others themselves. You the single ant are not alone. Motivate the people around you, there are other single ants in other parts doing the same. Expand your area until you meet, then keep going. If you look online in your area, you may be able to find other like minded people and groups with whom you can take collective action.