Unless you have been living under a rock for the last few decades, you will be aware that humans have been having a negative impact on the environment and that many scientists are worried about the effect that our habits have been having on the climate.
There is no denying that the climate has been changing, and although there are some people who continue to refute it, it is the actions of humans that have contributed to the extreme weather patterns affecting the entire globe.
But rather than sitting back and hoping that world leaders will, or even can, take drastic action to reverse climate change, it is the responsibility of every person to do their bit to help the environment. Do not assume that the little changes you make will not have a big impact. If everyone does their bit, we can leave a better planet behind for our grandchildren and future generations. So, what changes can you make? What can you do to help save the planet?
Little Things That Can Have a Big Impact
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
A big contributor to climate change is carbon emissions, and there are many ways that you can reduce your own individual carbon footprint. Vehicles that use gas and diesel are some of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gases, as is air travel. By being more responsible about how we travel, we can greatly reduce our carbon footprint. Cutting down on overseas travel and vacationing closer to home are good ways to do this. Taking public transport or car sharing to and from work can lessen the number of vehicles on the roads. Even better, why not start cycling? This form of transport is better for the environment and your health.
Shop Responsibly
You can reduce your waste by being careful about what you buy. When buying gifts for loved ones, look for ethical gifts such as the fabulous Project Honey Bees bee jewelry items sold by Project Honey Bees. This responsible company donates proceeds of every sale towards efforts to conserve bee populations around the world. When buying groceries consider buying local produce, which will reduce the supply chain (and buy organic where possible).
Consider a Sustainable Diet
Following on from the above, shopping locally from responsible farmers will help you to eat more sustainably. But you can also consider eliminating, or at least cutting back on, your consumption of meat. A plant-based diet is much better for the environment. The growing population and our dependence on meat products means that more and more land is required across the globe. This is leading to a massive loss in forest all over the planet and, along with it, crucial biodiversity. Switching to a plant-based diet is better for the environment, your health, and your wallet.
Reduce Waste
We need to be much more responsible about our waste. It is important to recycle where possible and reuse what we can. From food to packaging, we have the ability to reduce waste and get creative. This might be making a new meal or crafting something new out of something that might otherwise have ended up on a landfill site.
Conclusion
There is much that individuals can do to help save the planet and make it a better place for future generations to live. Remember that every small change you make adds up to have a bigger impact when everyone is doing the same thing.
Little changes do not need to have a major impact on your life, but they can have a major impact on the world in which we live.
