Everyone Can Make a Difference

You Have Much More Power Than You Believe. Take action.

Although some may disagree, our activities can and do impact the environment in which we live. Simple efforts like recycling your plastic containers rather than throwing them in the garbage or walking instead of driving make a difference. It is usually the tiny actions committed by many that have the most influence. We don’t need to rely on big businesses to bring about all of the necessary changes. Our daily deeds are also significant.

When it comes to being environmentally conscious, it’s not only about what we do with plastic bags but also about making everyday decisions that will determine our species’ success or failure. Individuals can be more attentive to pollution reduction, animal protection, natural resource conservation, and other acts that can help reduce climate change.

Everybody can make a difference, especially when environmentally conscious choices become our second nature and influence others to follow suit. Doing the right thing for the planet’s future can even provide immediate personal rewards. It can help you express yourself creatively, get you more involved in your community and the world, and even help you live a better lifestyle.

We must limit the amount of waste we produce and reuse or repurpose consumer items instead of discarding them. Unfortunately, Nigeria is one of the biggest waste-producing countries on the planet.

So, what are our options? What steps can you as an individual take to alter your life for the better? What changes can you make to your everyday routine to make it more eco-friendly? Why don’t you start with these five easy steps?

Limit Wastage

It may seem simple at first, but this is an important step that we all need to take. Begin by taking a look around your home. Donate or sell anything you don’t need. Reuse goods you haven’t used in a long time. You might discover that you can put some of these items to better use. You may not need to purchase new materials or commodities if you get imaginative. Just make do with what you’ve got. After that, think about how you can cut back on your intake.

Practice “Root To Stem” Or “Root To Leaf” Cooking

Another technique to reduce food waste and benefit the environment is to practice “root to stem” or “root to leaf” cooking. Rather than discarding the stems and leaves of certain vegetables, look for recipes that use these components. Compost or replant the rest of the vegetable once you’ve utilized as much as you can. Composting the vegetable scraps offers other plants and vegetables a fresh lease of life. Regenerating vegetables from kitchen leftovers can provide you with more food for less money while also reducing trash.

Monitor Your Water Use

Whether you live in a drought-prone location or not, keeping an eye on your water usage is essential for the environment. We don’t need to waste water because it is readily available. Many individuals have faced various challenges to get access to clean water. Those of us fortunate to have it at our disposal must be responsible with its use. You will also save money by conserving water. For tips on how to manage water, click here.

Reduce Energy Consumption

Every minute of the day, most of us consume energy one way or another. The issue here is that many people are ignorant of how much power they spend. Do you know that leaving counter appliances plugged in consumes energy even when they’re not in use? It’s known as “vampire energy.” Unplugging appliances and equipment that aren’t in use can help you save electricity. Another tip is to open windows or doors during evening hours to help air out your home and naturally cool it down. You should also air out your room regularly to reduce indoor pollution.

Say “No” to plastic bags

Plastic bags are harmful to the environment. They take hundreds of years to decay and are very dangerous to wildlife. Every year, hundreds of thousands of marine creatures die due to mistaking plastic bags laced with toxins for food. In addition, many animals suffocate after being caught in plastic bags.

When your product is otherwise transportable, it’s a good idea to decline the retail bag or carry your own. Also, use and reuse all of the bags — paper, plastic, and fabric — that have accumulated in your closet over the years. Use them to line rubbish cans or scoop up litter if they get too filthy to carry your new goods. Finally, appropriately dispose of them — recycle them if possible.

Conclusion

We will be better off in the long run if we can do more to help conserve the environment for future generations. While it is true that the Earth will go through cyclic changes, we must all share responsibility for the ecosystem. It doesn’t take much, thankfully. Plus, the impact will be more significant if everyone can make ecologically responsible choices alongside businesses and governments.

Author: Yetunde Oyelami

Photo: weebly