Something or someone we care about will be affected by climate change. Here are some lifestyle changes that we can make for the better.
As we embark on the UN Climate Change Conference, known as COP25, which is underway in the Spanish capital, Madrid, the devastating impact of climate change is all the more visible.
Glaciers have shrunk, plant and animal ranges have shifted, and we are seeing accelerated sea levels and longer, more intense heat waves.
Dirty fossil fuel emissions contributing to the greenhouse effect have created air pollution leading to respiratory diseases such as asthma.
No matter what we’re passionate about, something or someone we care about will be affected by climate change.
Here are just a small number of lifestyle changes that we can make:
Travel
Road transport is one of the biggest sources of pollution contributing to poor air quality, noise disturbance, congestion and climate change. Breathing in air pollution can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. It worsens asthma symptoms and can cause lung problems.
ACTION: Choose lower carbon transport options for getting around wherever possible such as local buses and trains, cycling or walking.
Consumption
Every product we buy has an environmental footprint and could end up in a landfill. The impact of plastic pollution on our oceans is having drastic impacts on marine life.
ACTION: Replace plastics such as bags bottles, plastic wrap, disposable cutlery, straws and coffee-cup lids with reusable versions.
Food Production
Food production is a major driver of wildlife extinction. What we eat contributes around a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions and is responsible for almost 60% of global biodiversity loss. Beef production is to blame for six times more greenhouse gas emissions than peas.
ACTION: Adopt a more plant-based diet to reduce your environmental footprint through compassion.
Water Consumption
Climate change has disrupted the water cycle and is one of the biggest drivers of water shortages globally.
ACTION: Ensuring our water consumption is controlled through water-saving devices, rainwater harvesting and responsible usage.
Volunteering
Our Environmental Cooperation circles around the world consist of committed volunteers who are working day in and day out to safeguard our planet through education, activism and advocacy.
ACTION: Join a cooperation circle and share your Green ideas with others. Be inspired to be a environmental change maker.
Let us unite in our efforts to protect our home. We are in a state of emergency.
