How You Can Confront Climate Change in Small Ways
Like it or not, climate change is something that all of us need to be aware of. The world is facing record temperatures once again this summer, and it’s not expected to get any cooler in the near future. Of course, it’s clear that some of the major contributors to climate change are the wealthiest people in the world. We all know that constant private jet usage isn’t exactly the best for the environment…
But nonetheless, all of us can take steps to combat climate change in small ways. This doesn’t mean that you need to completely upend your life, of course. It just means that you might want to make some considerations that you didn’t in the past. With that being said, let’s look into some small, painless ways that you can combat climate change.
1. Eat Fewer Animal Products
Traditionally, a vegan diet (one that is devoid of meat and other animal products like dairy and honey) is associated with animal activism. But the reality is that there is an environmental benefit to eating more plant-based foods. This is because the meat and dairy industries are difficult to maintain, due in part to the amount of space that livestock take up, the amount of methane that they contribute to the atmosphere, and issues like over-grazing. You don’t have to be vegan, by any means. We just recommend considering more sustainable foods, like oat- or nut-based milks, as well as a bit less meat. As demand for animal products goes down, so will the issues that animal products contribute to the environment.
2. Buy Sustainable Products
This can be a bit tricky at first. However, it’s really just a matter of doing a bit of research before buying. Many companies that are focused on recycling and sustainability will make their efforts clear and obvious in initial descriptions. For example, Popilush invests in recyclable packaging. Non-recyclable packaging is one of the main contributors to waste in today’s world, especially with the increase in online shopping post-pandemic. Recyclable packaging can be easily disposed of, and for that matter easily reused. Therefore, everyone benefits in the long term.
3. Reduce Your Energy Usage
There are indirect and direct benefits to reducing your energy usage. When you cut back on your energy usage, you’re reducing your own carbon footprints. However, you’re also cutting back on your monthly bills. Once again, everyone wins through these small gestures. Turn off lights and appliances when you aren’t using them. Try wearing more layers during the winter, and turning down the thermostat somewhat. Do what you can to ensure that your home is energy efficient.
4. Cut Consumption
Try to buy fewer single use products. For example, rather than buying a lot of plastic, single use bottles of water which will end up in a landfill once you’re done drinking, invest in a reusable water bottle. If you don’t want to drink tap water, think about paying for an inexpensive water filter and refilling your water bottle throughout the day. Consider investing in fewer pieces of clothes that are higher quality, rather than fast fashion pieces which won’t last long and will need to be thrown out in a short period of time.
It can be difficult to begin taking steps to be more environmentally friendly… at first. But there are companies that are taking steps to be more aware of climate change. You can make a big difference simply by spending your money more wisely, with climate change in mind. And you may find that when you do so, you actually end up spending less money in the long term. Once again, we all win in the end!
