The current state of our planet — rising temperatures, climate change, and environmental pollution — results from prolonged and unchecked human activity. As the state of the Earth worsens, people must take immediate decisive action. The good news is that if people make small changes to their habits and lifestyle, it can go a long way in keeping the planet healthy and habitable.
Here are eight simple yet effective ways you can adopt:
Reduce the carbon footprint:
Transport contributes majorly to pollution and adds significantly to the carbon footprint. Walking or biking while travelling short distances and choosing energy-efficient modes of transport, carpooling, or using public transport wherever possible can help reduce the consumption of fossil fuels and lower the amount of carbon dioxide released into the air.
Plant trees:
While carrying out photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air, thus reducing the levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Additionally, when planted around homes, trees provide ample shade, keeping your homes cool. This lowers the need for electricity to keep the space at a comfortable temperature.
Use water wisely:
Water is a crucial natural resource. While it has varied uses in everyone’s day-to-day life, with a little effort, you can prevent it from being wasted. From turning off the tap while brushing or shaving to checking your taps and pipes for leaks, there are several small changes you can make to avoid wasting water.
Conserve electricity
Non-renewable energy is generated by the burning of fossil fuels, which leads to the emission of large quantities of greenhouse gases. Being mindful and making simple changes like turning off lights, unplugging electronic equipment when not in use, and opting for energy-efficient light bulbs can help lower the consumption of electricity. Additionally, renewable energy sources like the sun and wind can be harnessed to produce clean energy.
Avoid disposable products:
Say no to single-use plastic products such as plastic bags, water bottles, straws, containers, and styrofoam cups, which otherwise end up in landfills and oceans and contribute to environmental pollution. Instead, you can switch to reusable cloth shopping bags, metal or earthen utensils, and recycled or biodegradable products.
Do not dump chemicals down the drain:
Avoid pouring toxic chemicals like bleach, toilet cleaners, paints, glue, oils, pesticides, and medicines down the drain. Instead, you can dispose of them in a waste disposal facility. You can also make the shift to natural and organic products to reduce the amount of harmful chemicals that enter the environment.
Practice composting:
By composting food waste, we reduce the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere from their decomposition while simultaneously improving the physical, biological, and chemical qualities of soil and promoting plant growth.
Reduce meat consumption:
Raising animals for meat can have a significant impact on the environment and is responsible for up to 60% of global biodiversity loss. Consider cutting down on your meat consumption — going vegetarian or vegan for even a couple of days a week can reduce your carbon footprint and benefit the environment.
Being mindful of our actions and making simple changes to our lifestyle can go a long way in protecting our environment.
-Content partner Happiest Health
