With the annual Earth Day approaching on 22nd April, countries all around the world will dedicate three days to raising awareness of the issue of climate change with a focus on the chosen theme ‘Restore the Earth’.
Climate change is an ongoing issue and according to NASA, there is more than 95% probability that it is a result of human activity since the mid-20th century, resulting in the modern climate era in which we live. Scientific evidence shows that the main climate impacts include global warming, extreme weather events, and sea levels rising, among many others. So, what can we do to decrease our contribution to the climate crisis? Have a look at our tips below!
Educate yourself
Information about climate change is not often discussed in the news in a way that helps audiences understand the issue, therefore we all must take it upon ourselves to learn about it through various websites such as NASA and WWF, as well as fascinating documentaries such as David Attenborough’s “A Life On Our Planet” which was released in 2020 or the most recent 2021 documentary “Seaspiracy” which focuses on the harmful practices that are carried out in our oceans.
Both of these are available on Netflix and show different angles to the global issue and open our eyes to the reality of how our small everyday lifestyle choices, such as eating fish, can be contributing to a much larger problem in the oceans and to the earth.
There are many other ways to learn about climate change, such as speaking to people from various climate organisations, following movements like Extinction Rebellion, and staying updated with environmental policies in the government.
Sign Petitions Or Write To The Government Or Local Council
An important way for you to join the fight for change is by signing petitions, of which there are many available online and if there is a particular angle you are passionate about, search for a petition on that or create your own! You can also write a letter to the government or local council stating your concerns and the changes you would like to see happen in your local community or country. With the climate conference (COP26) taking place in Glasgow this year, there is no better time to ensure you voice your concerns before the conference takes place.
Walk More / Use Public Transport
Reduce your transportation emissions by driving less. Instead, think of alternative ways to commute such as walking, cycling, car sharing, public transport or even switching to an electric car to reduce your carbon footprint. These will not only have a more positive impact on the environment but also your own health if you choose to be more active. It is also important to be aware of the impact of flying before jetting off on various holidays after the pandemic.
Use Renewable Energy
Be aware of where your energy is coming from and ensure you don’t waste it. Switch gas appliances with electric, hang dry your clothes when you can and use energy-efficient light bulbs. Install solar panels for your energy if you are able to and try to avoid anything that contributes to the burning of fossil fuels.
Reduce Waste
Be aware of the things you use and the things you waste and learn about where your waste goes, as well as the impact this has on the environment. Start recycling plastics if you don’t already, make sure you do not make too much food that will end up being wasted, and try to fix objects that are broken if possible, rather than throwing it out and replacing it with a new one. You can also donate a lot of your belongings to charities that will make use of your used items, rather than throwing them out.
Eat Sustainably
Make sure you know where your food has come from and the impact this has on the environment. Try cutting down your meat and fish intake, eat organically as much as possible, shop local, don’t waste food and even try growing your own!
The meat and fish industry are extremely harmful to the environment, and there is no better time to switch to a vegetarian or vegan diet with limitless alternative foods to eat to ensure you still consume all the nutrition your body needs.
Contribute Less To Fast Fashion
Fast fashion has a negative impact on the environment as well as contributing to waste levels. It is easy to get caught up in buying new outfits constantly and not re-wearing the same outfit twice, especially in the age of social media, but once you realise that is not important, you can have a more positive impact on the climate as well as saving money. With sustainable fashion businesses on the rise such as TALA and sustainable sections within brands like PrettyLittleThing and Missguided being added, there are now more options than ever to shop sustainably and there is no sign of this trend slowing down in the years to come.
Talk About It More
A simple way to encourage change right now is by opening up the discussion. By talking to people about climate change, you will observe different views on the issue and possibly change other people’s view on it. When people are unaware of the impact their lifestyle choices have on the environment they are not inclined to change, therefore if you have the knowledge, you also have the power to teach and influence others who are not likely to seek out the information themselves. The best way to have a large impact and encourage change is by getting as many voices together as possible to advocate for the cause, so by simply opening up the discussion and talking about it more regularly, you can encourage a lasting impact.
Get Politically Active And Vote
Be aware of the political parties who are environmentally conscious and have shown that they take the issue seriously by previous acts or future plans to combat the issue. Stay updated with the parties and upcoming elections to allow you to come to an informed decision and make sure you register to vote, to ensure your voice is heard.
By Layla Maguire
KeiKei is a London-based award-winning journalist and videographer with a degree in Broadcast Media and Journalism from the University of the West of Scotland and an extensive reporting background in news, entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
KeiKei has travelled the globe interviewing, reporting and reviewing. Her work has been published in worldwide media outlets including, The New York Post, The Guardian, The Mirror, The Daily Mail, National Geographic and Conde Nast publications.
