As climate change becomes inevitable, there are still ways in which we can change to slow it down. Imagine a hundred years from now and how different the world will be, scientists have predicted that as soon as 2100, Venice could disappear underwater. How could one of the world’s most beautiful cities just disappear and become almost mythical for future generations? All because we did not take action to try and slow down climate change and global warming. Here are a few ways in which you could help to be more environmentally conscious.
1. Sustainable travel
Now more than ever we rely on cars to transport from a to b, however, there are methods of travel that are more environment friendly, such as a car share and I’m not referring to the Peter Kay comedy programme, although it does outline the concept. If you and a friend or work colleague live close by or on the way for the other, why not share the journey together? This would mean that fewer cars are on the road and on top of that it makes the commute more entertaining.
Bikes are also very popular and useful if you live in a city, as not only does this mean that you are reducing your own carbon footprint but also exercising every day. Imagine the workout cycling to and from twice a day five days a week. If fashioning lycra and a helmet for the commute isn’t your style, then how about an e-scooter? Over the past few years, these have become a popular alternative, and while they do cost more it would mean getting to avoid the outfit change on arrival.
2. Selling and purchasing unwanted clothes
While donating unwanted clothes to charity shops has always been an option, the trend of selling and buying clothes second-hand has become popular in the last five years. Websites such as Depop and Vinted have become popular allowing you to take pictures and sell unwanted clothes at a selected price, this means that you can make a small profit from getting rid of clothes you no longer wear. Similarly, you can also purchase pre-loved clothes for a fraction of the retail cost.
3. Be energy efficient
As the cost-of-living increases, there are ways in which you can adapt and change habits to conserve energy and reduce costs. The first way may be obvious, but many people forget to close doors around the house. This then allows the room to retain all of the heating rather than it being dispersed through a number of rooms. Another way is to only turn the heating on when you need to if you’re feeling a little cold perhaps put another layer on or sit under a blanket. Similarly, in the winter months, fuzzy socks and a hot water bottle can be your best friend.
4. Conscious consumption
While veganism and other dietary changes are highly popular when trying to change and help the planet, not everyone can cut meat or other animal products out of their diet and lives. Switching or reducing meat consumption will help to reduce carbon emissions, for example, beef has the highest amount of C02 in comparison fish has very low emissions and can also be a healthier option in comparison.
Another way to be conscious is to check the packaging and other labels, this could be looking for the fair-trade logo, which is shown on all products that farmers and animals have been treated fairly and ethically. This also means that they are more likely to be environmentally friendly.
5. Use reusable items
Using reusable items such as coffee cups and straws means that less plastic is being used and sent to landfills. Most coffee shops offer a discount on most takeaway coffees if you bring your own reusable cup, a lot even sell their own which you can buy in-store.
Similarly, plastic straws a few years ago were changed to paper in order to reduce plastic production, however, most of the time these are rubbish and often don’t last the whole drink. Popular alternatives are metal and glass straws, most of which you can get in a holder for you to take out with you so that the next time you order an iced latte you don’t have to use the paper straw.