Today, the world is going through a major environmental crisis – climate change, global warming, water shortages, deforestation, biodiversity loss, heat waves, etc. The total world population emits around 50 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide per year – more than 40 per cent higher since the 1990s. The global temperature will likely go beyond 1.5 degrees Celsius with current emissions, resulting in frequent and intense natural disasters. As species responsible for the destruction of the environment, we need to do everything we can to save ourselves, other species, and the earth. Here are a few ways to save the Earth:

1. Reduce, Reuse Recycle

Adopting the 3Rs in your daily lifestyle can help save the earth. Poor waste segregation and management contribute to climate change and air pollution and affect several species and ecosystems. Around 292.4 million tons of waste in the United States have been generated alone. The 3Rs help reduces the amount of waste we throw away.

Source

Only purchase the products that you actually require. Consider purchasing long-lasting and sustainable items. Upcycle your old products instead of throwing them out. And lastly, recycle your dry waste.

2. Volunteer For Clean Ups In Your Community

There’s no better way to contribute toward a healthier and cleaner environment than by volunteering to tackle the problem of waste. You can always spare an hour or so and join your fellow community members to save the earth as you work hard to throw away bad waste habits.

You can volunteer for clean-ups in your community or host a clean-up yourself. When you clean the environment and pick up waste, you remove physical hazards for wildlife, reduce groundwater pollution, protect natural habitats, and more. You can volunteer or conduct clean-ups anywhere- forests, rural areas, rivers, beaches, etc.

3. Use Less Water

Saving water can save the earth! Conserving water saves money and energy. Using less water also keeps more water in our rivers and ecosystems. Approximately 4 billion people experience severe water shortages for at least one month each year.

You can use less water by:

• Using washing machines and dishwashers only when the load is full
• Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth
• Purchasing a water-efficient toilet
• Collecting water used to wash vegetables and fruits to water plants
• Installing water-efficient taps
• Showering for a minimum of five minutes
• Checking pipes and faucets for leaks

4. Shop Wisely

The fast fashion industry consumes an insane amount of water – 93 billion cubic meters – leaving most of it polluted with chemicals. Approximately 92 million tonnes of clothes-related waste is discarded each year. Our shopping habits can significantly impact the environment. Thus, it is necessary to shop wisely and sustainably.

Source

Start with purchasing from brands that actually care about the environment. Whenever possible, always try to shop from local stores and companies – it reduces your carbon footprint. Consider shopping from brands and companies that sell reused and upcycled clothes.

5. Use Long Lasting Light Bulbs

Light bulbs also impact the environment negatively due to their wasteful energy consumption. An average 100-watt incandescent bulb uses around 75 per cent more energy than an equivalent CFL and 80 per cent more than its LED equivalent. The wasteful energy consumption increases utility costs and contributes to increasing greenhouse gas emissions.

LED bulbs last longer than ordinary bulbs, reducing the need to replace the bulbs frequently. A long-lasting bulb means lower carbon emissions. LED lights do not contain toxic elements like mercury and, thus, have a low environmental impact.

6. Plant A Tree

Planting trees is one of the easiest ways to save the earth. Trees/plants, both outdoor and indoor, remove toxic pollutants, improving air quality and human health. Trees remove around 2,000 tons of air pollution in Los Angeles per year.

Trees can cut electricity and air conditioning costs by up to 50 per cent. Planting trees and other vegetation is good for the environment as they are recyclable, renewable, and biodegradable. If we plant around 20 million trees, the earth will get 260 million tonnes of oxygen.

Also Read: The Magic of Biomes: Exploring Earth’s Diversity