Our planet is slowly changing, evidence of which can be found in rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and shifting animal habitats. Here are few simple tips on what you as an individual can do to help fight climate change.
Many consider climate change to be the greatest threat our world is facing today. Our planet is slowly changing, evidence of which can be found in rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and shifting animal habitats. This is known as ‘climate change,’ which is caused by global warming. The idea is that carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases released into the environment trap heat in the atmosphere, which causes Earth’s temperature to rise. Rising temperatures lead to a number of other environmental problems and complications. People of all ages from all around the world are taking action, organizing strikes and petitions and imploring politicians to make the right decisions to save our planet before it’s too late. Here are few simple tips on what you as an individual can do to help fight climate change.
Power your home with renewable energy
One of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emission is the use of non-renewable energy. This includes the burning of fossil fuels for energy, which is then used for heating, electricity, transportation, and industrial purposes. Choose a utility company that generates energy using renewable resources, such as wind or solar.
Optimize your diet
The meat and dairy production industries are also responsible for a large portion of greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing the amount of meat and dairy based meals in your diet, and replacing them with plant-based foods can make a big difference. Also, buying organic and local food helps protect the environment and climate as they contain fewer pesticides, and reduce carbon emissions caused while transporting the produce.
Avoid using plastic
Almost all plastic is made from fossil fuels, such as coal, natural gas, and crude oil, which means it emits greenhouse gases as it decays. Plastic has found its way almost everywhere - in landfills, oceans, on the streets, and even in the air - and its durability also makes it hard to get rid of easily. Avoiding one-use plastics and replacing them with reusable versions can help reduce plastic waste, along with greenhouse gas emission.
Sustainable transportation
Carpooling, taking public transit, riding a bike, or even walking for transportation helps reduce your carbon emission while saving you a few bucks. Switching to a fuel efficient vehicle, such as a hybrid or fully electric car, is another great way to save money and fuel.
Speak up and spread awareness
Educate yourself on the issue, spread awareness using social media, and voice your concerns by talking to local elected officials. Being politically active and making sure you’re voting for politicians and parties that care about climate change is also very important. Lastly, join and support movements and non-profit organizations such as Fridays for Future or Climate Action Network to show that you care about the future of our planet.
Without efforts to prevent global warming and climate change, the challenges will only increase. Many people feel that the issue is too widespread for the actions of an individual to really make a difference. However, as David Suzuki once said “In a world of more than seven billion people, each of us is a drop in the bucket. But with enough drops, we can fill any bucket.”