In the 1980s, the United Nations defined sustainability as “attempting to meet the existing needs without comprising the ability of future generations to meet their needs.” We collectively as a society need to make large-scale changes in how we live to ensure that our planet remains healthy. Understandably, it can be a daunting task to consider how we can reduce our carbon footprints in a way that protects the environment for future generations. There are, however, steps that we can take in our daily lives to safeguard the planet.
Cut Down the Plastic
Each year the world produces 400 million metric tons of plastic and 10 million tons of this plastic ends up in the ocean. Plastic pollution can be particularly detrimental to aquatic animals, who may ingest synthetic material or become trapped in it. One thing that we can do to live more sustainably is limit the amount of plastic that we use. Instead of purchasing single-use plastic bags at our local grocery stores, we can opt for reusable fabric bags instead. When it comes to water bottles, we should consider switching to one that is more environmentally friendly. In the current day and age, it seems near impossible to avoid plastic as it’s quite literally everywhere. If we are using plastic, we should ensure that we recycle it correctly.
Take Public Transport or Ride Your Bike
A major producer of CO2 emissions and other air pollutants is the transport sector. Every year the world produces 67 million cars, with 2 vehicles entering our roads every second. Commuting is a necessary part of our lives for many of us. One thing that we can do to reduce our carbon footprint is taking public transport to work or even riding a bike during the warmer seasons. Carpooling is also another way that we can reduce the number of vehicles that are on our roads at any given time. Finally, when thinking about purchasing a car, we should consider buying a car that is environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient.
Choose Slow Fashion
In recent years there has been a rapid shift in how we make and even think about clothing. Buying trendy but cheap attire is now easier than ever, with the products arriving at our doorstep following a few simple clicks. Due to their poor quality, we are more likely to toss out such items after using them a handful of times. Fast fashion has created an epidemic of sorts, where discarded clothing items end up polluting the planet. One thing that we can do is cut down our consumption of cheaply produced clothing items, choosing instead to buy from sustainable brands that prioritize the Earth’s health. Another alternative to purchasing from fast fashion brands is buying locally or buying from thrift shops.
Thinking about the needs of future generations may feel overwhelming. There will likely be a need to implement stricter legislation that cracks down on companies that produce high carbon emissions. Nonetheless, even minor lifestyle changes on an individual level that take the environment into consideration will ensure that the next generation prospers.
References
https://www.mcgill.ca/sustainability/files/sustainability/what-is-sustainability.pdf
https://www.msc.org/en-us/media-center/blog/news/2021/12/06/22-simple-tips-to-live-a-more-
sustainable-lifestyle-in-2022
https://pebblemag.com/magazine/living/how-to-live-a-sustainable-lifestyle
https://theroundup.org/plastic-waste-statistics/
https://www.theworldcounts.com/challenges/consumption/transport-and-tourism/cars-impact-on-
the-environment
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/fast-fashion.asp
Ammarah Naseer
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