The effects of climate change are all around us and have been for some time now. We are seeing more and more bizarre weather patterns, stronger and more frequent storms, rising sea levels, and more. It’s easy to feel helpless as an individual when it comes to combating the damage that has already been done to our environment. But it’s never too late to start making some changes, no matter how small. Collectively, we do have the power to make changes and start to reverse some of the environmental damage that has been done, and it starts at the individual level.
In honor of Earth Month and day this April, we have put together five actionable steps you can take in the fight against climate change.
1. Engage in Local Climate Change Advocacy
Action begins at the local level. Check for climate marches in your area or volunteer at local organizations fighting the effects of climate change. Find Earth Day events near you here. This is also a great list of 50 non-profit organizations fighting climate change. See if one of them has a local chapter in your area. If none of these call to you, start your own! There are so many ways to get involved. Even sharing posts on social media can help raise awareness.
2. Join Virtual Summits and Panels From April 20-22nd
This April 20th-22nd join climate leaders and activists from around the world to learn more about the climate crisis and what is being done on a global scale to help. Head to https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-2021 to register for virtual summits and learn more about the agenda. Speakers include Greta Thunberg, Alexandria Villaseñor, and Licypriya Kangujam.
3. Look at Your Diet
This does not mean you need to go vegan (but if that calls to you, more power to you)! It is well known that our carnivorous diets are doing a number on the planet. It’s not that we need to cut out eating meat altogether, but even cutting down the amount you eat daily or having “meat-free” days can help. On a personal note, I have at least one day a week where I eat a vegetarian-only diet and the rest of the week I try to eat meat for only one or two meals of the day. Not only is this good for the planet, but our bodies as well. Of course, every body is built differently and we all need different amounts of protein and nutrients, so check with your doctor or nutritionist to find out what’s best for you.
4. Check Your Travel & Consume Less
Air travel is one of the leading contributors to climate change, accounting for a quarter of the average person’s annual emissions. Fly less if you can. Trains are better and who doesn’t want to see the country by train!? Driving less can also have a big impact. Walk or bike as much as possible. Another big one – CONSUME LESS. Simply buying less stuff can have a huge impact on your carbon footprint. Being more conscious of what you are consuming has so many benefits including less waste, fewer carbon emissions, and more money in your wallet. When you do shop, look into more sustainable and local goods. There are so many great sustainable brands these days you are sure to find what you are looking for. Look for transparency in the supply chain and information on a brand’s sustainability practices and commitments. As always, Olive & Olde’s is committed to sustainability and conscious of our environmental impact.
5. Be Conscious of Your Energy Use
Things like washing your clothing in cold water, or turning off the lights when you aren’t in the room, taking showers instead of baths, and using energy-efficient appliances all have an impact on carbon emissions and therefore climate change. Recycling and composting are also a great habits to get into to help lower your waste.
We are all in this together. If more of us hold our governments and corporations accountable, while doing what we can on a personal level, we can make a drastic change in the trajectory of the climate crisis. We owe this to our planet, our children, ourselves, and all future generations to come.
**Photo by Tayler Carlisle Photography.