We all live on the same planet, even the small things we do can make a big difference if everyone tries to help. Here are some things that you may already be doing to help the environment, to remind you that even the little things can change the future.
1) Where possible, walk, cycle or take public transport.
The planet's average surface temperature has risen about 1 degrees Celsius since the late 19th century, a change driven largely by increased carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere and other human activities. This may not sound like a lot, but increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide are responsible for about two-thirds of the total energy imbalance that is causing Earth's temperature to rise.
2) Recycle!
Recycling saves resources, prevents pollution, supports public health, and creates jobs. It saves money, avoids landfills, and best of all, it's easy. You can help to maintain a healthy planet simply by putting things in the correct bin. Recycling does not only mean putting cereal boxes and tin cans in the recycling bin, it also means finding uses for things that you already have instead of buying new things.
3) Local food is best for the environment.
Not only does buying food that is local to you often support a smaller business, but it also reduces the food miles that it has to travel. Not many people realise that most of the things that they eat come from places halfway across the country when it could simply be found a few kilometres away. The further away it comes from, the further it has to be delivered, which means more carbon emissions are being released. As you know, this will then lead to a further temperature increase across the world.
4) Plant more vegetation.
As previously mentioned, conserving natural spaces is one of the most effective ways to slow climate change. It gives nature a chance to live and become stronger again. Even if it's having a small part of your garden or any outside space designated for growing something, it all helps. Plants oxygenate the air and balance the amounts of carbon too. You could replace fake grass with real grass or grow some vegetables or even a small tree. Not only does this make greener spaces more common, but it gives bugs and other animals places to rebuild their ecosystems.
5) How are you using your energy?
It is becoming more and more common for people to switch to solar, wind, or even hydroelectric power systems. Globally, the use of energy represents by far the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions from human activities. About two-thirds of global greenhouse gas emissions are linked to burning fossil fuels for energy to be used for heating, electricity, transport, and industry. If using an energy provider that doesn't emit carbon is not an option for you, you can still be aware of what you are using. So much can be saved by doing these three simple things- unplugging chargers that aren't being used, switching off lights, and turning off taps when they aren't being used.