I think symbolism is cheap, anyway. Systemic change is what is needed. Someone could give up all carbon & live in the trees, and it wouldn't change a thing, because 2 more people would be born the same day to chew up twice as much carbon.
That said, people who want to lead on the issue shouldn't open themselves up to criticism & scrutiny, especially if they are advocating mandates for personal conservation or emissions.
The focus should be more on R&D for alternatives & giving people affordable options for going green...