Happy Earth Day!
Today, on April 22nd, we come together to celebrate and appreciate our Mother Earth. This annual event, which began in 1970, reminds us of the need to protect and preserve our planet’s natural resources and ecosystems. It serves as a time to reflect on our actions and take steps to reduce our environmental impact.
“The wild woman has a deep love of nature, a love for the ancient mother. Though possibly misunderstood, it has always been in her. When she goes into the wilderness a part of her soul is going home” – Shikoba
As we all become more aware of the impact we have on our planet, it’s important for us to learn how to live more sustainably. This means actively making choices that help to reduce waste, conserve resources, and protect the environment. By adopting more sustainable habits, we can lessen our harm to the planet and ensure we leave a healthier march for future generations.
In light of this, I will be sharing some tips for students to help you move towards a more sustainable lifestyle:
Reduce, reuse, recycle
“Each individual contribution to the problem may be minimal, but the combined activities of our neighbours, our community and citizens across the country have an enormous effect” – Paul Griss
The foundation of sustainable living lies in relying on the three R’s – reduce, reuse, and recycle. We can achieve this principle by using reusable cups, water bottles, and containers to significantly reduce our waste. Another easy idea is to donate the clothes you no longer wear, books you’ve read and other items that someone else would love.
The three R’s is said to be the foundation of sustainable living. Using reusable cups, water bottles, and containers can significantly reuse our waste. We can donate clothes, books and other items using the British Heart Foundation banks. It’s important for us to recycle paper, plastic, glass and metal to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in our landfills.
Choose sustainable products
“It’s only one straw, said 8 billion people…”
We must be mindful of the products we purchase. Opting for sustainably produced and packaged items, like beeswax food wraps and reusable makeup removal pads, can make a difference. Avoiding excessive packaging and harmful products should always be a priority.
Save energy
“Instead of looking for hope, look for action. Then, and only then, hope will come” – Greta Thunberg
We can reduce our energy consumption by turning off lights and appliances when not in use, using energy-efficient bulbs and appliances, and walking, cycling, or using public transport instead of driving alone.
Conserve water
“The future we steer, our water will be clear, together we’ll have nothing to fear”
Water conservation is crucial, and small actions can make a significant impact. Take shorter showers, fix leaky faucets, and don’t leave the water running unnecessarily. You can also save water by using a low-flow toilet or shower head.
Sustainable fashion
“Fast fashion is not free. Someone somewhere is paying” – Lucy Siegle
Fashion can have a massive impact on the environment. We can swap clothes with friends, invest in long-lasting pieces, or buy second-hand clothing from charity shops or online platforms, such as Vinted and Depop. Donating unwanted clothes, repairing clothing, and taking care of our clothes can also make a difference.
Eat sustainably
“Cutting food waste is a delicious way of saving money, helping to feed the world and protect the planet” – Tristram Stuart
Eating sustainably produced and packaged foods, such as locally grown fruits and vegetables, organic meat and dairy products, and foods with minimal packaging, can make a difference. Reducing meat consumption, limiting food waste, avoiding plastics, and looking for products containing RSPO palm oil are other sustainable options.
Green your home
“It is one world. And it’s in our care. For the first time in the history of humanity, for the first time in 500 million years, one species has the future in the palm of its hands” – David Attenborough
Using biodegradable household products, recycled toilet paper, natural deodorant, and natural ingredient shampoo can reduce our exposure to harmful chemicals. Eco-friendly cleaning products and using non-synthetic, sustainably grown or raised ingredients can also have a positive impact.
Support sustainable practises
“Environment is no one’s property to destroy; it’s everyone’s responsibility to protect” – Mohith Agadi
Supporting businesses and organisations committed to sustainability is essential. Zero Carbon Guildford and Solar-Sisters Café, for example, are two zero-waste shops in Guildford town centre that promote environmental awareness through various events and initiatives.
Educate yourself and others
“One way or another, the choice will be made by our generation, but it will affect life on earth for all generations to come” – Lester Brown
Finally, educate yourself and others about sustainability. Read books and articles, watch documentaries, and attend events and workshops to learn more about environmental issues and how to address them. Share your knowledge with friends and family, and encourage them to adopt more sustainable practices as well.
Living more sustainably may feel like an overwhelming task at first, but by making small changes in your daily life, you can make a big impact on the environment. Remember that every little bit helps, and together we can create a more sustainable future for upcoming generations. Little swaps go a long way.
