People across Australia (and, of course, the rest of the world) are becoming increasingly aware of their part in preventing climate change.
As time ticks on, we edge ever-closer to the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change deadline of 2030, by which time humanity needs to have cut carbon dioxide emissions by 45%.
One way we can all pitch in is by leading a much more sustainable life. And, the good news is, with so much choice and so many resources at our fingertips, making the switch to sustainable living doesn’t have to be too disruptive.
How To Live Sustainably
This might sound all well and good, but what actually is sustainable living? Well, in basic terms, it just means making better choices in your day-to-day life, which do not involve the unnecessary use or wastage of resources.
You see, according to the WWF, humans are consuming the world’s resources at a rate that is unsustainable. And that is the one big thing that is driving environmental degradation.
By making simple changes, we can help put a stop to the planet’s overconsumption problem, keeping it at its best for future generations.
1# Get Savvy With Recycling
You likely throw stuff out every day, whether it be plastic water bottles, clothes, or old homeware items that you don’t need anymore. But, even though a lot of what gets tossed out with the trash can be recycled, much of it ends up going to landfill.
Unfortunately, Australians have a recycling problem. In recent years, we have been getting better. But, by and large, we have only been recycling around 20% of our plastic.
Considering that this country generates 3.5 million tonnes of plastic waste a year, that figure doesn’t even come close to being sustainable.
Look up your local government’s approach to recycling and find out what commonly chucked out items can be given a new lease of life.
2# Use less plastic
Speaking of plastics, if you’re really serious about sustainability, you should also make an attempt to cut down on your plastic use altogether. While plastic is ubiquitous in this day and age, it is very much possible to start leading a plastic-free life.
For one thing, more supermarkets than ever before are selling fruits, vegetables, and other products without their plastic packaging. And, there are dedicated shops that allow you to refill old plastic containers with new products, so nothing has to go to waste.
Beyond that, it is also advised that you invest in reusable water bottles and coffee cups. They are far more environmentally friendly than single-use plastic and paper alternatives.
3# Invest in electric cars
The school run, your commute to work, and, really, any trip you complete in a car will create an awful lot of pollution.
However, with new, advanced technologies, it is possible to have speed, power, and space in a car that does not harm the environment.
Just take a look at Tesla, one of the most technologically advanced cars on the market today, electric or otherwise. And, since it doesn’t run on petrol, it doesn’t pollute. Simply charge it up at night and you’ll be ready to travel 500 kilometres, fast.
4# Eat less meat
Whether you’re completely plant-based or a meat-eater, chances are you’ve spotted the recent rise in meatless alternatives to your favorite foods.
The vegan revolution has arrived, and for good reason: meat and dairy production accounts for a great deal of the world’s carbon emissions.
But, don’t worry if you love your meat, because this doesn’t have to be a case of going cold turkey. As long as you make a concerted effort to cut down on your consumption of animal products, you’ll be doing your bit.
5# Forget fast fashion
It is getting easier and easier to buy clothes at rock bottom prices. But, while this is of benefit to the consumer in the short term, the cost of fast fashion has really been adding up.
So much gets wasted during the production process, not to mention the fact that many fast fashion companies are guilty of exploiting their workers.
Instead of buying cheap clothes that are more than likely pretty poor quality, purchase pieces that are made to last and, ideally, using materials that are organic.
With so many climate-focused companies emerging, it’s never been easier to fill your wardrobe with clothing that is as attractive as it is sustainable.
Read More:
- How To Live A More Sustainable Life
- 10 Best Fitness Tips For Beginners
- The 4 Benefits of Growing Your Own Food
Author: Luke Fitzpatrick
