With the increase in global warming, more individuals across the world are experiencing the effects of climate change firsthand, such as frequent hurricanes, stronger heatwaves, and irregular weather patterns. In addition to humans, climate change has various adverse effects on wildlife as well. ThoughtCo reports, habitat disruptions are one of the prominent challenges faced by wildlife across the globe, which is caused due to melting of glaciers, rampant deforestation, extreme temperature changes, and more. As a result, animals find it harder to hunt, mate, migrate and carry on other activities integral to their survival.
Given that humans are the key drivers of climate change, we need to take responsibility to keep emissions to a minimum and contribute towards the goal of net-zero. In this article from DinoTeoli.com, we’ll explore a few simple yet effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint and how to keep climate anxiety in check.
1. Switch to Green Energy
Switching to a green energy provider will result in your home powered by renewable sources such as hydro, solar, and wind. Even though this option exists in most areas of the US, utility companies do a poor job at advertising green energy providers. Hence, your first step will be to research providers in your area and then inform the utility company regarding your decision to switch. This will be a simple process that requires completing a few forms and providing identification.
By making the switch to green energy, not only do you directly reduce emissions, but provide the much-needed monetary support.
2. Reduce Food Waste
An estimated 50 tons of food is wasted each year in Canada. This waste is transferred to landfills where it starts decomposing and releases methane into the atmosphere. Methane is a greenhouse gas with a higher potency than carbon dioxide and is one of the main contributors to global warming. Here are two ways to keep your food waste to the minimum:
Create a grocery list before going shopping and only buy the items which you are confident will be consumed before going stale. Food items such as milk, bread, fruits, and vegetables have a limited shelf life, hence be mindful of the quantities you purchase.
If you live in an area known for warm temperatures, inculcate the habit of storing produce in a refrigerator/freezer, as it will prevent it from being spoiled and ending up in the trash.
3. Become a Climate Action Advocate
While inculcating these habits yourself is a good start, to create meaningful change, they need to be followed on a mass scale. By being a climate action advocate, you can accelerate this process by educating those around you regarding the steps they can take to keep emissions to the minimum. Whether it be family, friends, or colleagues, share your experiences regarding the benefits of a sustainable lifestyle, which include lower utility costs, and better health.
You can also organize an awareness event in your area, like a 5k or an auction. Network with people in your community who might support your cause, and reach out to old friends or find old high school contacts through an alumni database to get more people involved. You never know who might be in a position to help.
Also, consider designing a climate change-related website filled with information, facts, data, and anything else you want to share with your eco-friendly audience. Fortunately, there are incredible tools available that allow you to build a website without any graphic design experience whatsoever.
4. Start an Eco-Friendly Business
One of the best ways to make a meaningful impact on combating climate change is to start an eco-friendly business. Prominent niches include recycling, furniture refurbishing, green landscaping, plastic-based clothing, and more.
When starting a new business, take the time to create a strong business plan covering key aspects such as your product offering, company mission, short and long-term goals, financial requirements, and business structure. This plan can then be used to apply for green grants and make the endeavor a success.
Managing Climate Anxiety
With the overload of negative rhetoric about climate change in the media, it is easy to get overwhelmed and start fearing for the future. At such times, it’s best to reach out to those close to you, whether a friend or family member and express your feelings. Other things you can try include engaging in exercise or participating in an outdoor activity such as jogging, swimming, cycling, etc. These activities lead to the release of various feel-good hormones, naturally, reducing stress and helping us regain clarity of thought.
While things may seem bleak in the present, the power to create change still lies in our hands and can be used to achieve the goal of net-zero and shape a brighter future.