Photo by Meritt Thomas on Unsplash
When you hear the term climate change, do you just shrug your shoulders and say there’s not much you can do about it? Well, that’s where you’re wrong. Climate change isn’t a problem that one person, one government or one organisation can fix. It certainly won’t be fixed overnight or in a few years.
But, like all great endeavours, it has to start somewhere. Every small action on your part will add up and in its own way, make a difference.
Talk About It
The first step to doing anything about climate change in South Africa is by identifying the things we do that worsen the situation. We need to create conversations with our friends and family about the small things we can do either on our own or as a community. Research and share your knowledge with everyone in your circle. Why not start a “go green” initiative and encourage the people you know to do the same?
Plant a Few Trees
Start a tree planting initiative with all your friends and family who have available yard space. Trees are beneficial because they remove damaging toxins such as carbon dioxide from the air. Planting trees in urban areas can provide a natural way to cooling cities.
Reduce Your Meat Intake
One of the highest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions is industrial farming. The manner in which we grow and dispense our food needs to change to minimise these greenhouse gas emissions. By simply cutting your meat intake by half, you’ll reduce your dietary carbon footprint by at least 40%. Eating organic, locally grown food will result in less emission during the transport process.
Recycle and Re-use
Wherever possible, recycle or reuse. Shopping bags for instance, can be reused as opposed to paying for new ones every time you visit the store. A better alternative would be to use your own cloth bags and avoid plastic entirely. Glass bottles and tins can be recycled. Simply find a recycling centre in your neighbourhood.
Avoid Plastic
Plastic is probably one of the worst things mankind has ever invented. Once discarded, exposure to the elements breaks plastic into minute micro plastics that are getting washed out into the oceans across the world, affecting natural habitats.
Not only are marine animals getting entangled and harmed, but they’re also consuming these plastic particles. When you eat fish for instance, you’ll also be ingesting these plastic particles.
Solar Power
Solar energy is a healthier, cleaner alternative to the traditional use of fossil fuels like coal. An added advantage is that solar energy never runs out. You’ll also save money on utility bills in the long run!
In Conclusion
There is an old African proverb that says “It takes a village to raise a child”. We’re all in this together, and it will take each of us to do our bit to create a better environment. It’s simple: live your life by three simple words. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.
