Environmentalism for the New Decade
As of January 3, 2020, just three days into the new decade, Time reported that over 12 million acres of Australia have burned, with millions of animals succumbing to the flames, and devastating amounts of biodiversity being lost. Needless to say, it’s not an optimistic look into the next decade when it comes to the wellbeing of the environment.
Frankly, as MIT Technology review states, the 2010s were basically another decade of lost progress in the fight against climate change. By neglecting to cut greenhouse gas emissions in the last 10 years, it’s not looking promising that we will be able to halt temperature rising at 1.5 ˚C or at this point, even 2 ˚C. While it may not seem like much, that half of a degree could mean doom for the coral reefs, and subject more than ⅓ of the world’ population to debilitating heat waves. Overall, this past decade will likely be one of the warmest on record, in turn causing sea levels to rise as a result of melting icebergs. Additionally, carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere also rose throughout the past decade, with 2016 – 2019 experiencing consistent growth year-over-year.
So, now with a fresh decade on our hands, it’s up to us to shape it. Do you really want to be reading environmental statistics like this in ten years, only to look back and realise you could’ve done a lot more? While New Year’s is an excellent time to focus on yourself and positive changes you can make to your lifestyle, why not also focus on changes you can take to ensure a healthier future for the Earth?
To get you started, we’re offering up some ideas to take on a new decade of action against climate change and global warming.
Shop More Sustainably
We get it. 2-day free shipping of any product you could ever dream of is just about as convenient as it gets. However, “fast fashion” is a trend that is far from stylish when it comes to the impact it has on the environment. In fact, the worldwide fashion industry emits nearly as much carbon as the entire continent of Europe. They say that where you choose to spend every and every penny matters. So we recommend trying to avoid shopping at fast fashion outlets, and instead do your research on sustainable companies, and use your buying power for good.
Clothing made from recycled or upcycled materials is a great way to go, too! We even offer bamboo t-shirts that are significantly more eco-friendly than cotton.
Cut the Single-Use Plastic
Although global concern over plastic usage has increased greatly in recent years, the top UK supermarkets are only increasing the amount of plastic on their shelves. Swap single-use plastic water bottles, cutlery, cups and bags for reusable bottles, thermoses, metal cutlery and canvas bags. It’s a small step that will, over time, send a strong message to policy makers and companies. We offer a variety of plastic alternatives, from reusable products to seed-based ones, for utilitarian purposes or for fun. Head over to our main site to have a look at our eco-friendly products.
Reduce Your Meat Intake
Industrial farming is one of the biggest offenders in climate change. In addition to producing deadly methane levels that trigger global warming, this industry is responsible for deforestation, fires and more. The main way to lessen the impact of the industry is to reduce its need and profits, by simply eating less meat. It doesn’t have to be full-fledged vegetarianism or veganism, either. Meatless Mondays can be a fun way to start.
Embrace Public Transport
Did you know that transportation is the highest-emitting sector in the UK? Depending on the remoteness of the area you live in, it may be tricky to cut down on driving. However, using public transport whenever you can is massively positive not just for the environment, but for reducing traffic, too.
Additionally, alternative transportation like walking or cycling are great habits to improve your health, and the health of everyone around you.
Here’s to a happy, healthy you in the new decade, as well as a healthier planet!
